The Chicago Bears defense is heading into a total nightmare for Sunday’s game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. After that 31-7 blowout loss to the Green Bay Packers on October 11, the injury list just keeps growing. It feels like the defensive unit is falling apart right before the Atlanta Falcons arrive.
The situation is dire. According to Sports Illustrated, the team lost three vital edge-rushers and linebackers during the past week. Montez Sweat is currently serving a two-game suspension for violating the league’s performance-enhancing substances policy. On top of that, T.J. Edwards is out because he hurt his hamstring during the loss at Lambeau Field. Dayo Odeyingbo is also sidelined with a quadriceps injury, per Sports Illustrated.
The Bijan Robinson Problem
Losing these guys makes stopping Bijan Robinson nearly impossible. Robinson is a monster lately. He has averaged at least five yards per carry over his last three games while handling at least 17 touches per contest, according to Sports Illustrated. Without the edge-setting of Sweat or the communication from Edwards, the defense is wide open. Even the gravity of Odeyingbo, which often forces double-teams on early downs, will be missing.
The Bears defense needs new heroes to show up. Austin Booker had a massive game against Green Bay with two sacks, three tackles for loss, and a forced fumble. He has to do it again to stop Robinson from running to the outside.
Finding Depth in the Chaos
The depth chart is being tested like never before. Daniel Hardy is a top candidate to see more snaps since Sweat and Odeyingbo are out. Hardy got a multi-year extension in the offseason, and now he has to prove he can handle the edge. James Lynch could also help by providing a big body in the middle of the field. He is a strong run-stopper during his first year in Chicago.
There is also some hype around Jamree Kromah. He could get his first regular-season snap this Sunday. During the preseason, Kromah recorded three sacks, four tackles for loss, and a forced fumble. The defensive line is thin, and the team is relying on these unproven pieces to survive the Falcons.
The offense might get a boost, but the defense is struggling. Yahoo Sports reported that quarterback Caleb Williams practiced fully all week and is expected to be back in the lineup.