Bears Place RB Deion Hankins, DB Terrell Smith on IR, Sign Royce Freeman

The Chicago Bears face significant injury challenges as they placed rookie running back Deion Hankins on injured reserve due to shoulder and quadriceps injuries sustained in a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, effectively ending his 2025 season unless an injury settlement is reached. Hankins' injury exacerbates a depleted Bears running back room already affected by injuries to Roschon Johnson, Travis Homer, and Kyle Monangai, prompting the team to sign veteran running back Royce Freeman for added depth. Additionally, the Bears suffered a major blow in their secondary as cornerback Terrell Smith was ruled out for the season with a torn patellar tendon, further straining the team's defensive backfield. Hankins showed promising physicality during training camp, but his absence now cuts short his development. The Bears are also managing other injuries at running back and defensive back, making roster decisions critical as they prepare for the regular season. These setbacks highlight the growing injury crisis the Bears must navigate to maintain competitiveness this year.