The Chicago Bears have won eight of their last nine games. Last Sunday, against the Pittsburgh Steelers, marked their first victory over an opponent with a winning record this season. This Friday will be easily their biggest test of the season as they travel to face off with the Philadelphia Eagles. The defending champions are in their usual form, sitting at 8-3. Experts are picking them unanimously to win this game. That isn't a surprise. The Eagles are the cream of the NFC and have one of the best rosters in football. Chicago, for all its grit and resilience, is dealing with a laundry list of injuries and relative inexperience in big games.
However, circumstances might be changing ahead of kickoff. It appears Philadelphia has injury problems of their own. They already lost star right tackle Lane Johnson to a foot injury. Running back Saquon Barkley is dealing with a troublesome groin issue. However, the big name drawing attention is DeVonta Smith. The Eagles' star receiver has been dealing with shoulder and chest issues that have forced him to miss the past two practices. It's looking increasingly likely that he won't play.
The Chicago Bears missing Smith would be a big deal.
He is Philadelphia's leading receiver, going for 754 yards on just 55 catches. His big-play ability is a huge part of their offense. They are 10-1 when he scores at least one touchdown in a game. Not having him should allow the Chicago Bears to focus more of their attention on fellow star receiver A.J. Brown. This makes the imminent return of cornerback Jaylon Johnson even more significant. If he can limit Brown, it could completely derail Philadelphia's entire passing game.
Does this guarantee victory? Of course not. The Eagles are too talented and too well-coached to be easily overcome. They've lost only twice at home since the start of 2024. It is a difficult place to play. Head coach Ben Johnson and his staff must have their guys prepared. Philadelphia will be playing with urgency after its collapse last weekend against Dallas. Still, the opportunity will be there.
