Bears finish training camp with injuries and roster updates ahead of preseason finale
Chicago held its final camp practice, activating two players from the PUP list while several starters left with injuries, as the team prepares for a joint workout and a preseason game against the Titans.
Chicago Bears completed their final training-camp session at Halas Hall in front of fans, ending a nearly two-hour practice with a red-zone drill. Cornerback Jaylon Johnson called a team meeting during the session, emphasizing that the effort needed improvement. Tight end Cole Kmet later said the practice was among the better ones of camp.
The Bears may be without several players later in the week. Starting right tackle Darnell Wright left the field with a right-arm issue that mirrors an injury from last season. Defensive tackle Gervon Dexter Sr., tight end Hayden Large, and cornerback Dontae Manning also exited and did not return. Running back Kyle Monangai remains week-to-week, while defensive end Marcus Davenport and defensive end Austin Booker were absent from drills.
On the positive side, safety Elijah Hicks and rookie linebacker Keyshaun Elliott were activated from the physically unable to perform list and participated in practice. Quarterback Tyson Bagent returned after missing the previous week with a hamstring problem. Cornerback Tyrique Stevenson rejoined team drills alongside Johnson, and backup corners Terell Smith and Jaylon Jones were back in the facility, though they did not take part in drills. Left tackle Ozzy Trapilo performed individual work.
Rookie defensive tackle Jordan van den Berg received reps with the starters, and with Booker out, Jamree Kromah worked with the first-team unit. Defensive lineman James Lynch also spent time with the first team. Head coach Ben Johnson noted the team is still evaluating the left-tackle position; Braxton Jones saw significant snaps in a 9-on-7 drill, which Brad Biggs described as a “nice job” with an emphasis on running plays to his side.
Theo Benedet took snaps at right tackle during Wright’s absence, and safety Cam Lewis paired with rookie Dillon Thieneman. The practice concluded with a long-drive cardio drill, ending with safety Xavier Woods intercepting a pass from quarterback Case Keenum. Defensive tackle Grady Jarrett was heard encouraging teammates during the drill.
Quarterback Caleb Williams led the first-team offense in a mixed performance, moving the ball from the one-yard line to the 14-yard line and completing a touchdown pass to Rome Odunze, followed by a rushing touchdown by D’Andre Swift. The Bears will have a light workout tomorrow and a joint practice with the Tennessee Titans on Thursday before closing the preseason against the Titans on Saturday.