The Chicago Bears experienced a physically demanding practice Thursday at Halas Hall, marking their longest session to date during training camp. The increased intensity resulted in two key injuries and ongoing adjustments along the offensive line.
Left tackle Braxton Jones left practice early after being visibly shaken during one-on-one pass-rush drills against defensive end Austin Booker. Jones appeared frustrated following multiple reps, culminating in an emotional reaction that prompted offensive line coach Dan Roushar to provide a brief on-field visit before Jones exited. Initial reports from a league source suggested Jones avoided a serious injury, but his absence left questions about the Bears’ search for stability at the left tackle position.
Coach Ben Johnson acknowledged the uncertainty at left tackle, emphasizing that the competition remains open. “We’re hoping maybe middle of next week we’ll have a lot of clarity there,” Johnson said prior to practice. He also noted the team would continue rotating players including Kiran Amegadjie, Jedrick Wills Jr., and Theo Benedet through reps to identify the starter. After Jones’ exit, Amegadjie took most of the remaining first-team snaps, with Wills logging some reps as well. The Bears maintain a cautious timeline and are prepared to extend evaluations into the regular season if necessary.
Defensive end Montez Sweat also left practice early after a series of one-on-one pass-rush reps with right tackle Darnell Wright, who has drawn praise for his development and recent contract extension. Additionally, cornerback Dallis Flowers and safety Gervarrius Owens suffered serious lower-leg injuries late in practice, with Flowers requiring assistance to exit the field and Owens carted off. The team did not provide immediate updates on their status.
Offensively, quarterback Caleb Williams showcased promising chemistry with rookie receiver Rome Odunze, who scored a 43-yard touchdown on an early team drill. The defense responded later in the session with an interception by cornerback Tyrique Stevenson. Tight end Colston Loveland also stood out, delivering consistent performances including a notable stiff-arm against a defender.
Special teams remained a strength, as kicker Cairo Santos converted all six field-goal attempts, including two from beyond 50 yards. Rookie defensive tackle Jordan van den Berg impressed with strong reps against interior linemen during drills, signaling potential in his preseason campaign.
Safety Cam Lewis, acquired in free agency from the Buffalo Bills, has been thrust into the starting free safety role due to Coby Bryant’s knee injury, which could sideline Bryant for up to 10 weeks. Lewis, who has experience at multiple defensive back positions, is focusing on mastering the communication and system responsibilities of the free safety spot. “Playing safety is playing safety,” Lewis said, highlighting the importance of understanding the scheme. He acknowledged he will make mistakes but emphasized maintaining confidence and enjoying the game.
Several players were absent from practice, including guard Jordan McFadden and cornerbacks Terell Smith and K.C. Eziomume. Six others remain sidelined due to injury or non-football-related issues, including running back Gordon (calf), safety Elijah Hicks (shin), linebackers Keyshaun Elliott (back) and Noah Sewell (Achilles), defensive end Shemar Turner (knee), and offensive tackle Ozzy Trapilo (knee).
The Bears will have off Friday before returning for practices over the weekend and a walk-through Monday, continuing their preparations ahead of the regular season.