The Chicago Bears have a banged-up pass-catching group heading into their Week 11 game against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. Chicago has won six out of their last seven games, but this NFC North clash could be its most challenging game.
In Week 1, the Bears lost at home to the Vikings, but Caleb Williams and Co. are a different team. Nonetheless, the latest injury update from Chicago should be concerning for the second-year signal-caller.
Will Caleb Williams Have His Weapons Available?
On Thursday, the Bears released their injury report with DJ Moore, Rome Odunze, and Cole Kmet popping up on the list. The two likeliest concerns for Chicago and its offense are Moore and Odunze, who were limited in Thursday’s practice.
An ankle issue limited Odunze in practice, while a shoulder problem prevented Moore from participating fully. Nonetheless, when it comes to Moore, even though he’s dealing with a shoulder injury, Moore gave an emphatic “duh” when asked whether he’s playing against the Vikings, per Courtney Cronin of ESPN.
The two wide receivers aren’t the only pass catchers dealing with an injury that will probably worry the Bears’ offense, as Kmet was limited in practice on Wednesday due to a back issue. However, on Thursday, he had full participation for Chicago. It will be interesting to see how healthy the Bears’ offense is, but as long as Williams is healthy, they can overcome any hurdles.
Caleb Williams Would Miss Rome Odunze
Odunze is coming off an impressive performance in Week 10 for the Bears, recording six receptions for 86 receiving yards and one touchdown as he continues to find that chemistry with Williams.
As a result, if Odunze were to miss or be limited for the Vikings game, it would be a significant loss for the Chicago signal-caller. The 23-year-old recently shared his thoughts on Williams’ growth this season.
“I think he’s definitely taken another step in his leadership, especially compared to last year,” Odunze said about Williams on the November 11 edition of “Intercepted With Kevin Byard.” “His comfort within the offense in the NFL stands out, and players with that killer instinct and that blend of play and leadership take you to new heights.
“We’re definitely riding that wave with his leadership and everyone on the offensive side of the ball. When QB1 gives that energy and goes out there making people miss, scoring touchdowns, leading game-winning drives, it’s like, man, we’re going places.”
The Bears will need their offensive weapons at full strength if they want to avenge their Week 1 loss to Minnesota. With the Vikings struggling at 4-5 and desperate for a home victory, Sunday’s matchup at U.S. Bank Stadium will test not only the Bears’ depth but also Williams’ ability to adapt if his receiving corps isn’t at 100%.