Chicago Bears Injury Report Reveals Critical Linebacker Crisis Ahead of Black Friday Eagles Showdown

The Chicago Bears face a defensive emergency before their biggest game of the season. Key linebackers T.J. Edwards and Tyrique Stevenson have been ruled out for the Black Friday matchup. The Bears play the Philadelphia Eagles on November 28 at 3 p.m. ET at Lincoln Financial Field.

This creates a severe personnel crisis for a team fighting for playoff position. According to official team reports, the linebacker unit is now missing four key contributors. The Bears must adjust quickly against the defending Super Bowl champions.

Complete Linebacker Unit Breakdown Ahead of Eagles Clash

The Bears’ official injury report confirms the worst fears. T.J. Edwards is out with combined hand and hamstring injuries. He has missed multiple games since suffering a broken hand in early November.

Rookie Tyrique Stevenson joins him on the sidelines with a hip injury. Stevenson was hurt during last Sunday’s win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. He did not participate in any practice this week.

The absences extend further down the depth chart. Reserve linebackers Ruben Hyppolite II and Noah Sewell are also unavailable. Sewell exited the Steelers game with a shoulder issue and did not practice.

This leaves defensive coordinator Sean Desai with limited options. The team must rely on practice squad elevations and scheme adjustments. Facing the Eagles’ potent offense makes this a monumental challenge.

Strategic Implications for Bears Against Defending Champions

The timing of this crisis could not be worse. Chicago (8-3) leads the NFC North division. Philadelphia (8-3) leads the NFC East and is the defending champion.

Both teams need this win for crucial playoff seeding. The game carries significant weight for the final stretch of the regular season. ESPN analysts note the Bears’ defense must find new ways to generate pressure.

Chicago showed resilience last week by winning despite injuries. The defense created two turnovers that led to 14 points against Pittsburgh. Replicating that performance against a better Eagles team is the task.

Philadelphia is coming off a stunning collapse against Dallas. The Eagles blew a 21-point lead in a 24-21 loss. They will be motivated to rebound strongly at home.

The Chicago Bears injury report exposes a vulnerable defense at a critical moment. Their ability to adapt will define this high-stakes Black Friday contest against the champions.

Thought you’d like to know

Which Bears linebackers are definitely out against the Eagles?

T.J. Edwards, Tyrique Stevenson, Ruben Hyppolite II, and Noah Sewell are all ruled out. This decimates the core of the Bears’ linebacker group right before a crucial game.

How did the Bears manage to win last week with so many injuries?

The defense forced two key turnovers against Pittsburgh. The offense, led by Caleb Williams’ three touchdowns, converted those opportunities into 14 points for a 31-28 victory.

What is the playoff implication of this Bears vs. Eagles game?

Both teams hold 8-3 records and lead their divisions. The winner gains a vital tiebreaker and improves their position for a top playoff seed in the NFC conference.

How can fans watch the Black Friday game?

The game airs exclusively on Prime Video at 3 p.m. ET. Amazon is offering the broadcast for free to all viewers, requiring no Prime subscription to watch.

What is the main challenge for the Bears’ defense now?

They must contain Eagles star running back Saquon Barkley with a depleted linebacker corps. Generating pressure and creating turnovers without key starters is the immediate challenge.

Are the Eagles dealing with any significant injuries?

Philadelphia’s injury report is notably cleaner than Chicago’s. The Eagles are expected to be near full strength, which creates a significant matchup advantage for their offense.