The Chicago Bears are grappling with a series of injuries as they prepare to face the Cincinnati Bengals [4, 6]. The team has signed veteran safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson to fortify their injury-depleted secondary [6]. This move comes as the Bears deal with significant absences, particularly in their wide receiver corps [4, 7].
Injury Challenges and Defensive Reinforcements
Chicago's receiving corps has been hit hard, with their top four receivers missing practice at a crucial time [7]. This situation poses a challenge as they prepare to face a Bengals team known for its offensive firepower [7]. To address defensive vulnerabilities, the Bears signed C.J. Gardner-Johnson, a two-time Super Bowl starter, to fill the void left by Kyler Gordon's injury [1, 6]. Coach Ben Johnson had previously expressed excitement about Gordon's potential to "unlock" the team's defense [1]. Gardner-Johnson's agents confirmed his visit to the Bears on Tuesday [6]. He now joins his fourth team [6].
Preparing for the Bengals
Head coach Ben Johnson addressed the media on Wednesday, discussing the team's preparation for the Bengals and the addition of C.J. Gardner-Johnson [2, 3]. Johnson also reflected on the Week 6 win and provided injury updates [2]. The Bears recognize the need to finish games strongly [2]. The Bengals offense, led by receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, presents a significant challenge [7]. The Bears hope Gardner-Johnson's experience will provide a strategic advantage [2].
TL;DR
- The Chicago Bears signed veteran safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson to address injuries in their secondary [6].
- The Bears' receiving corps is struggling with injuries ahead of their game against the Cincinnati Bengals [7].
- Head coach Ben Johnson emphasized the importance of finishing games and is strategizing to counter the Bengals' offense [2, 7].
- Gardner-Johnson aims to fill the void left by Kyler Gordon's injury and bolster the Bears' defense [1].