Bears Lose LT Braxton Jones to IR Just in Time for the Jets Pass Rush
Chicago Bears left tackle Braxton Jones has been placed on injured reserve with a right knee injury, forcing backup Benedet into the starting lineup against the New York Jets.
HotTakes Editorial Team1 min read
Finding live odds…
The Chicago Bears just pulled off a dominant 27-7 win over the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 3, but the victory tax has officially arrived in the Windy City.
Left tackle Braxton Jones is heading to injured reserve after messing up his right knee against Philadelphia, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter and Courtney Cronin.
"Story reported by Adam Schefter via Courtney Cronin"
Going to IR means Jones is shelved for at least the next four games. Losing your blindside protector is the kind of roster hit that turns a smooth-running offense into a frantic scramble drill.
The timing is objectively terrible. The Bears are gearing up to host the New York Jets this Sunday. Facing that defensive front with a backup left tackle is like trying to defuse a bomb while wearing oven mitts.
Reports indicate Benedet is in line to take over the starting gig against New York. Throwing a backup into the fire against a relentless pass rush is a massive gamble, and it immediately shifts how you have to look at Chicago's offensive ceiling for the next month.
If you are eyeing the Bears' team totals or player props this weekend, factor in a lot more quick-game concepts and max protection. Chicago has to figure out how to keep their quarterback upright, or this feel-good start to the season is going to get bruised in a hurry.
Key stats
Key statsBears defeated the Eagles 27-7 in Week 3
Jones will miss a minimum of four games on IR
What's next
Benedet will step in to protect the blindside against the Jets, while the Bears must navigate the next month of their schedule without their starting left tackle.
