The Chicago Bears received the best injury news in weeks as linebacker T.J. Edwards and edge rusher Dayo Odeyingbo were spotted in individual warmups for the first time since injuries sidelined them in 2025. While neither participated in full drills, their presence on the field marked a positive step toward a potential summertime return, with Edwards expressing confidence about being ready for training camp. Linebackers coach Richard Smith reiterated that Edwards remains in the starting plans, regardless of how Devin Bush and D’Marco Jackson progress.
Odeyingbo’s recovery is more uncertain, given his Achilles tear in November—the second such injury in his career—making his timeline longer and less clear as mandatory minicamp approaches. The Bears also face another reliability concern at cornerback with Kyler Gordon, who missed most of 2025 due to soft tissue injuries and has yet to prove consistent availability. If Gordon remains limited, coach Ben Johnson may need to reassess depth behind Malik Muhammad and the nickel role, intensifying scrutiny ahead of minicamp.
The takeaway: the Bears will welcome any progress from Edwards and Odeyingbo as minicamp nears, while continued questions around Kyler Gordon and the absence of Montez Sweat add layers of uncertainty to the defense.
Key Takeaways
– T.J. Edwards and Dayo Odeyingbo were seen at practice in warmups; full drills were not yet resumed.
– Edwards is targeting a return and remains in the starting mix, per coaching staff.
– Odeyingbo faces a longer recovery after an Achilles tear; timeline remains fluid.
– Kyler Gordon’s ongoing availability remains a critical concern for the secondary ahead of minicamp.
– Montez Sweat’s ongoing absence adds uncertainty to the defense as offseason work continues.
