Is Jaylon Johnson’s Injury Update a Sign He’ll Return in Week 12?

The Chicago Bears have opened the 21-day practice window for All-Pro cornerback Jaylon Johnson, marking a major step in his recovery. The move comes only nine weeks after he underwent surgery following a groin injury suffered in Week 2. The Jaylon Johnson injury update arrives two days before the Bears face the Minnesota Vikings in Week 11.

Johnson practiced with the team on Friday in Lake Forest, a development that surprised many inside the organization. Head coach Ben Johnson said the veteran corner is “in a good spot,” but the team remains cautious. His return timeline had previously pointed toward late December.

Where Jaylon Johnson’s Recovery Stands After Surgery

Johnson suffered a groin injury in Week 2 while making a diving play in Detroit. The Bears placed him on injured reserve shortly after, with initial evaluations indicating a long rehab. He had already missed training camp and the season opener due to tearing the abductor off his pelvic bone earlier in the offseason. Only one game into his return, the opposite side of the injury area became compromised, per his comments to a Chicago radio station.

Friday’s limited practice appearance was his first on-field participation since September. According to the team, Johnson is officially listed as questionable for Week 11. It is considered unlikely he will suit up against Minnesota’s receiving duo of Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison after only one walkthrough practice.

However, there is growing optimism he could be available as early as Week 12 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. If that happens, it would be one of the quicker recoveries from this type of injury in recent seasons, according to league medical experts cited by outlets like AP and Reuters.

The Bears have been short-handed in the secondary. Nahshon Wright has been filling in opposite Tyrique Stevenson, posting three interceptions and seven passes defensed in eight starts. Despite his emergence, the Bears’ defense ranks 31st in yards allowed per pass (7.81). Nickel corner Kyler Gordon remains on injured reserve with a hamstring issue, and linebacker T.J. Edwards is working back from hand surgery and a hamstring problem.

If Johnson, Gordon, and Edwards return within the next few weeks, Chicago could reach near full strength during the toughest stretch of its schedule. The Bears face the Eagles on Black Friday, two matchups with the Packers, the 49ers, and the Lions to close the season.

How Johnson’s Return Could Shift Chicago’s Season

Jaylon Johnson’s presence dramatically shifts what the Bears can do defensively. Before his injuries, the coaching staff expected Johnson to shadow No. 1 receivers in Dennis Allen’s system. His Pro Bowl résumé and ability to eliminate top pass-catchers give Chicago flexibility it currently lacks.

Ben Johnson has repeatedly said the Bears aim to play their best football in December. A healthy Jaylon Johnson strengthens that goal. His return would stabilize the secondary, help in high-leverage matchups, and reduce strain on a rotation that has been tested for most of the season.

The latest Jaylon Johnson injury update signals real progress. If he returns soon, the Bears will regain one of their most important defensive leaders at the perfect time.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When is Jaylon Johnson expected to return?

He is practicing again but is unlikely to play in Week 11. Week 12 appears more realistic if he continues progressing.

Q2: What injury did Jaylon Johnson suffer?

He tore the abductor off his pelvic bone earlier in the offseason and later injured the opposite side in Week 2.

Q3: Why did the Bears open his practice window now?

Coaches believe he has made strong progress in rehab and is ready for evaluation on the field.

Q4: How have the Bears performed without Johnson?

The defense has struggled in coverage, allowing 7.81 yards per pass. Depth concerns remain due to other injuries.

Q5: Who has replaced Johnson during his absence?

Nahshon Wright has started opposite Tyrique Stevenson and played well, but the unit still needs Johnson’s leadership.