Photo Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images
The Chicago Bears will be without running back Kyle Monangai for Sunday’s matchup against the Green Bay Packers, while quarterback Caleb Williams is listed as questionable after returning to practice from a hamstring injury.
Monangai was ruled out Friday after suffering thumb and toe injuries during Chicago’s 23-12 victory over the New York Jets. The rookie running back carried the ball a career-high 30 times for 146 yards and two touchdowns before leaving the game late in the fourth quarter.
Coach Ben Johnson said Monangai’s toe injury was more serious than initially expected. The running back is wearing a walking boot, and the team will evaluate his status week to week after he consulted a specialist. However, Johnson said the Bears do not plan to place Monangai on injured reserve.
Bears Turn To D’Andre Swift And Roschon Johnson
With Monangai unavailable, D’Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson will lead Chicago’s backfield against Green Bay. Swift was a full participant in Friday’s practice and carries no injury designation for Sunday’s game after dealing with hip and knee issues earlier in the week.
Swift has rushed for 311 yards and three touchdowns on 69 carries this season. He lost a fumble during last week’s win over the Jets and did not touch the ball again, but Ben Johnson expressed confidence in the veteran running back ahead of the Packers matchup.
Roschon Johnson could also receive an increased workload. The fourth-year back recorded four carries for 16 yards on Chicago’s final drive against New York after Monangai exited with his injuries.
Ben Johnson praised Roschon Johnson’s physical running style, versatility and ability to contribute in pass protection. The coach also suggested the running back could help address Chicago’s red-zone struggles.
The Bears enter Week 5 leading the NFL in rushing, averaging approximately 196 yards per game. Monangai ranks among the league’s leading rushers with 324 yards and three touchdowns, making his absence a significant loss against a Packers defense that has struggled to stop the run.
Caleb Williams Questionable After Practice Return
Williams returned to practice on a limited basis Friday for the first time since injuring his right hamstring during Chicago’s Week 2 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. He has missed the Bears’ last two games, both of which they won with backup quarterbacks.
Ben Johnson said Williams is progressing through a gradual rehabilitation plan that includes throwing and increasing his running activity. The team is monitoring his response to each stage to avoid a setback.
Despite Williams’ return to practice, Tyson Bagent is expected to start against Green Bay. Bagent started last week’s 23-12 win over the Jets after Case Keenum filled in during Chicago’s victory over Philadelphia.
Williams’ questionable designation leaves open the possibility of a return, but his availability will depend on how he progresses through the remainder of his recovery.
Bears And Packers Manage Additional Injuries
Chicago also ruled out linebacker Keyshaun Elliott with a quadriceps injury. The team designated defensive back Kyler Gordon, linebacker Noah Sewell and defensive lineman Shemar Turner as questionable after they practiced Friday.
Green Bay will be without running back Chris Brooks and wide receiver Savion Williams, both of whom are dealing with ankle injuries. The team designated guards Aaron Banks and Jacob Monk as doubtful, while center/guard Jager Burton and defensive tackles Anthony Campbell and Javon Hargrave carry questionable tags.
Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed remains out for the season with a neck injury, while linebacker Edgerrin Cooper suffered a season-ending ACL injury in the previous game. Outside linebacker Micah Parsons also remains on the physically unable to perform list as he recovers from a torn ACL.
The Bears enter the matchup at 3-1, while Green Bay sits at 2-2. Chicago will look to maintain its strong rushing production as it prepares for the possibility of playing without both Monangai and Williams.
