
The Chicago Bears announced roster moves on Tuesday. It came following their 31-7 Week 5 loss to the Green Bay Packers and the unfortunate news involving Montez Sweat.
Chicago entered the rivalry showdown on a two-game winning streak following victories over the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Jets. However, the team struggled on both ends of the field, and the hosts dominated on defense. Tyson Bagent started his second consecutive game as Caleb Williams continues to recover from a hamstring injury.
He completed 12-of-21 passes for 87 yards and two interceptions. Bagent was benched in the fourth quarter for Case Keenum, who recorded 11-of-19 completions for 108 yards and one interception. Sweat registered one quarterback hit.
The defensive end has been suspended by the NFL for violating its Performance-Enhancing Substances Policy. He will miss the next two games without pay. Chicago announced that it activated Shemar Turner from the Reserve/PUP list.
Sweat’s absence is a huge blow to the defense. He is a one-time Pro Bowler who brings a lot of experience and one of the unit’s leaders. The 30-year-old started the season strong by recording two sacks in the first three weeks. The timing of his suspension is also concerning as the Bears will face the Atlanta Falcons on the road on Sunday followed by a short week. They will host the New England Patriots on “Thursday Night Football” on Oct. 22.
The team will rely heavily on Austin Booker to step up. He previously expressed frustration about his limited role but has a chance to prove his worth. The Kansas product has big shoes to fill; however, he has big opportunity to play more snaps in the future. Sunday’s game will start at 1 p.m. ET, with Fox Sports broadcasting it live from Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
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