Bears' Defensive Coordinator Dennis Allen on Backup Linebackers: 'We're Counting on Everybody in This Room'
Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen is emphasizing the importance of every player contributing to the Chicago Bears' defense. Speaking about the team's depth at linebacker, Allen made it clear that he relies on all his players.
The lack of injuries has helped Allen keep all of his linebackers healthy enough to participate in practice. Despite this, there are several key players missing from Tuesday's estimated injury report due to various ailments.
Allen mentioned that backup linebacker D'Marco Jackson is well-prepared for his upcoming start at middle linebacker. The defensive coordinator believes it takes more than one week of preparation to be ready for the role and stated that he has been around Jackson long enough to know how hard he works during games.
Meanwhile, the Bears are facing a crucial test this Friday against the Eagles. Several linebackers listed as non-participants on Tuesday's injury report include T.J. Edwards (hand, hamstring), Noah Sewell (elbow), Ruben Hyppolite II (shoulder), and Amen Ogbongbemiga (hamstring).
Ogbongbemiga had a significant impact against the Steelers last week when he stepped in for Hyppolite, producing a lot of production. Allen believes that's what they are trying to build here – a team where every player feels accountable to each other.
Allen also highlighted that this philosophy applies to the cornerbacks. Tyrique Stevenson is currently listed as a non-participant due to an injured hip but could return from injury reserve by Friday, potentially opening up opportunities for Jaylon Johnson (groin) or Kyler Gordon (calf).
Additionally, Nahshon Wright will continue to play despite some concerns about his role in the Bears' defense. Al Harris emphasizes that they need their best 11 players on the field and praises Wright as one of their best.
The upcoming game against the Eagles is crucial for both teams. The Sun-Times' experts predict a close matchup, which will see significant player contributions from all positions.
On another note, quarterback Caleb Williams has been discussing his conversation with Jalen Hurts prior to his current stint with the Bears. The two players first met during their college days at Oklahoma and have shared words of encouragement on how Williams should make the most out of his opportunity as a Black quarterback in the NFL.
The upcoming game against the Eagles may test Williams' accuracy, which was a concern after he struggled Sunday against the Steelers.
Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen is emphasizing the importance of every player contributing to the Chicago Bears' defense. Speaking about the team's depth at linebacker, Allen made it clear that he relies on all his players.
The lack of injuries has helped Allen keep all of his linebackers healthy enough to participate in practice. Despite this, there are several key players missing from Tuesday's estimated injury report due to various ailments.
Allen mentioned that backup linebacker D'Marco Jackson is well-prepared for his upcoming start at middle linebacker. The defensive coordinator believes it takes more than one week of preparation to be ready for the role and stated that he has been around Jackson long enough to know how hard he works during games.
Meanwhile, the Bears are facing a crucial test this Friday against the Eagles. Several linebackers listed as non-participants on Tuesday's injury report include T.J. Edwards (hand, hamstring), Noah Sewell (elbow), Ruben Hyppolite II (shoulder), and Amen Ogbongbemiga (hamstring).
Ogbongbemiga had a significant impact against the Steelers last week when he stepped in for Hyppolite, producing a lot of production. Allen believes that's what they are trying to build here – a team where every player feels accountable to each other.
Allen also highlighted that this philosophy applies to the cornerbacks. Tyrique Stevenson is currently listed as a non-participant due to an injured hip but could return from injury reserve by Friday, potentially opening up opportunities for Jaylon Johnson (groin) or Kyler Gordon (calf).
Additionally, Nahshon Wright will continue to play despite some concerns about his role in the Bears' defense. Al Harris emphasizes that they need their best 11 players on the field and praises Wright as one of their best.
The upcoming game against the Eagles is crucial for both teams. The Sun-Times' experts predict a close matchup, which will see significant player contributions from all positions.
On another note, quarterback Caleb Williams has been discussing his conversation with Jalen Hurts prior to his current stint with the Bears. The two players first met during their college days at Oklahoma and have shared words of encouragement on how Williams should make the most out of his opportunity as a Black quarterback in the NFL.
The upcoming game against the Eagles may test Williams' accuracy, which was a concern after he struggled Sunday against the Steelers.