Full Breakdown
Chicago Bears Face Roster Challenges Ahead of Steelers Matchup
11/24/2025, 2:36:04 PM
Key Roster Changes Before Game Day
The Chicago Bears have made significant roster adjustments as they prepare to face the Pittsburgh Steelers on November 26, 2025. The team signed Carl Jones Jr. from the practice squad to the active roster, marking his return after being waived earlier in November. Jones has primarily contributed on special teams, recording 10 tackles in seven games this season. His involvement in the upcoming game may increase due to injuries affecting key defensive players, including Noah Sewell, T.J. Edwards, and Tremaine Edmunds, who has been placed on injured reserve.
Impact of Injuries on Defensive Lineup
The Bears are facing a considerable challenge with injuries to their defensive lineup. Cornerbacks Kyler Gordon and Jaylon Johnson, despite participating fully in practice, were not activated from injured reserve and will miss the game. Johnson has been sidelined since Week 2 following core muscle surgery, while Gordon is dealing with a calf injury. In their absence, Tyrique Stevenson and Nahshon Wright are expected to start, with C.J. Gardner-Johnson stepping in at the nickel cornerback position. The absence of their top three inside linebackers signals a potential vulnerability in the Bears' defense against the Steelers.
Changes in the Running Back Room
In addition to defensive adjustments, the Bears have altered their running back roster by placing Roschon Johnson on injured reserve due to a thumb injury. Johnson, a fourth-round pick in 2023, has struggled with injuries throughout his career and has seen his role diminish significantly this season. In his place, Brittain Brown has been signed from the practice squad. Brown has shown promise in limited action, including a touchdown in a previous game. With veteran D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai healthy, Brown's role may be primarily on special teams.
Broader Implications of Roster Moves
The Bears' roster changes reflect a broader trend of injury challenges that could impact their performance against the Steelers. The team currently holds a 7-3 record and is looking to maintain momentum despite these setbacks. The decision to elevate offensive lineman Jordan McFadden from the practice squad suggests concerns about the health of starting left tackle Theo Benedet, who is listed as questionable due to a midweek quad injury. The Bears will finalize their inactives shortly before kickoff, which could further influence their game strategy.
Official Statements & Responses
The Bears have not released detailed comments regarding the impact of these roster changes, but the coaching staff is expected to address the situation in their pre-game remarks. The focus remains on adapting to the injuries and maximizing the potential of the available players.
What's Next
As the Bears prepare for their matchup against the Steelers, they will need to navigate these roster challenges effectively. The outcome of this game could significantly influence their playoff positioning as the season progresses.
