Chicago’s offensive line stays intact as the Bears prepare for Thursday’s clash with New England.
Key points
- Jonah Jackson is expected to start, providing continuity on the Bears’ offensive line.
- Kyle Monangai's absence marks his third consecutive game out, impacting Chicago’s rushing depth.
- Both teams face multiple injuries, with the Patriots missing key interior linemen.
The Chicago Bears confirmed that right guard Jonah Jackson will start against the New England Patriots on Thursday, despite earlier uncertainty after a hip injury in the previous game.
Jackson has been a mainstay on the offensive line, starting every game over the past two seasons and missing no snaps.
Jackson cleared to start
The Bears will be without their No. 2 running back Kyle Monangai for a third straight game. Monangai suffered thumb and toe injuries while logging 30 carries in the Oct. 4 win over the Jets and is expected to miss about a month, with a possible return against Seattle on Nov. 2.
Additional injuries include backup linebacker Jack Sanborn ruled out with a concussion, starting linebacker T.J. Edwards listed as doubtful due to a hamstring strain, and cornerback Tyrique Stevenson marked questionable with a hamstring issue, though the team expects him to be fully available.
Monangai's injury outlook
Because of the quick turnaround from the Falcons game, the Bears have limited practice this week, opting for walk‑throughs rather than full drills.
New England entered the matchup with five players sidelined: right guard Ben Brown (knee), left guard Alijah Vera‑Tucker (hamstring), cornerback Carlton Davis (neck), safety Kevin Byard (questionable chest), while wide receiver A.J. Brown is cleared to play.
Reader questions
Why was Jonah Jackson's status uncertain before the game?
He left the previous matchup with a hip injury, prompting doubts early in the week, but cleared the final injury report.
When might Kyle Monangai return?
He is projected to be out for roughly a month, potentially returning for the Nov. 2 game against Seattle.
Which Patriots players are unavailable for Thursday's game?
Right guard Ben Brown, left guard Alijah Vera‑Tucker, and cornerback Carlton Davis are ruled out; safety Kevin Byard is listed as questionable.
Source: chicago.suntimes.com
