Sun Dec 28 17:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Bears Defense Battered by Injuries and Illness Ahead of 49ers Showdown
SAN FRANCISCO, CA – The Chicago Bears defense is facing a potential crisis as they prepare to face the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday night. A combination of injuries and illness has left the availability of several key defensive starters in serious doubt.
Cornerback Nahshon Wright is battling both a hamstring issue and illness, leaving his status very uncertain. Linebacker T.J. Edwards is dealing with a glute injury, and nickel back C.J. Gardner-Johnson is still working his way back from a knee injury, although he was a full participant in Friday’s practice.
The situation at cornerback is further complicated by Josh Blackwell’s questionable status. Blackwell did not practice on Thursday or Friday, and Nick McCloud has already been ruled out due to illness.
“It’s this time of year,” Bears coach Ben Johnson said, acknowledging the team’s struggle with illness. “I doubt we’re the only team dealing with [illnesses]. We’re washing our hands, we’re being very diligent. Guys have masks on. You do what you can. Whoever is available here on gameday, we’ll look to win with. If a guy can’t go, we’ll be ready.”
On the offensive side, there’s some positive news as rookie receiver Luther Burden III is set to return after missing last week’s game with an ankle injury. “Being on the sideline is not fun,” Burden said. “It’s good to cheer the guys on, but I want to be out there helping them, going out there and competing and continue to win games.”
However, receiver Rome Odunze remains sidelined for a fourth consecutive game due to a foot injury, and rookie offensive lineman Luke Newman is questionable as he remains on injured reserve with a foot injury.
The Bears will look to overcome these challenges as they aim to upset the heavily favored 49ers on primetime.
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