The Chicago Bears’ first injury report of Week 7 is out, and it features a handful of key names we’ll want to keep an eye on as updates come through.
Here’s the first report:
#Bears Thursday Injury Report pic.twitter.com/JDiZeXEVKk
— Chicago Bears (@BearsPR) October 22, 2020
Defensive lineman Akiem Hicks missed practice due to an illness. The Bears did not specify what the illness was, but Hicks did not appear on the league’s COVID-19 update. Joining Hicks as non-participants in Thursday’s practice due to injuries were special teams ace Sherrick McManis (hamstring) and slot cornerback Buster Skrine (ankle).
Skrine’s ankle and McManis’ hamstring are the most concerning injuries to pop up on the report. That’s because Skrine is the Bears’ top nickel option. Meanwhile, McManis slots in behind him as one of the first reserve defensive backs. Behind Skrine and McManis are rookie Kindle Vildor and second-year cornerback Duke Shelley. Both have just one defensive snap under their respective belts this season. Dropping to the depths of the position chart when Cooper Kupp could be featured in the slot is troubling.
We’ll also keep an eye on offensive lineman Rashaad Coward (finger) and safety Deon Bush (hamstring). Both were limited in practice. Bush’s listing is an upgrade from being a non-participant in practice last week, while Coward is a new addition to the injury report. Should Coward be unable to go, I imagine Alex Bars (shoulder) being a full participant means he’ll be ready to go.
Hopefully better news lies ahead on tomorrow’s injury report.