Bears Start Season With Key Defensive Starters Out Against Vikings

The Monday night NFL opener between the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears at Soldier Field features significant injury concerns for the Bears, particularly in their secondary. Key Pro Bowl cornerbacks Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon are both questionable due to hamstring and groin injuries, with Johnson likely sidelined, which may benefit Vikings star receiver Justin Jefferson. The Bears also face the absence of starting linebacker T.J. Edwards, further weakening their defense. To bolster the roster, Chicago has elevated linebacker Carl Jones Jr. and defensive end Tanoh Kpassagnon from the practice squad, while the Vikings promoted wide receiver Tim Jones. These injuries and roster moves set the stage for a challenging defense against the Vikings' potent passing attack led by young quarterback J.J. McCarthy. The game, marked by these key defensive absences, is anticipated to be a critical test early in the 2025 NFL season.