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Lions offense dealt a blow with Bears cornerback expected to return for Week 2

Originally posted on Side Lion Report | By Caden Handwork | Last updated Sep 13, 2025 10:00 AM ET

The Detroit Lions are looking to avoid their first 0-2 start since Dan Campbell's first season as head coach as they face off against the Chicago Bears for their home opener at Ford Field on Sunday. The game is set to be highlighted by the return of former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who is now the head coach for the Bears.

There is a lot of pressure on both teams entering this matchup, but particularly on the Lions after last week's lackluster 27-13 loss to the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. A win this week against the Bears in what is expected to be a rowdy crowd at Ford Field will help the Lions get back on track, as they will travel to Baltimore to play the Ravens on Monday Night Football in week 3.

Bears expected to return key returner against the Lions

Ahead of Sunday's game against the Bears, Chicago could see the return of one of their starting defenders. Cornerback Jaylon Johnson is expected to play against the Lions on Sunday after missing the Bears season opener loss to the Minnesota Vikings.

Jaylon Johnson said the additional “calf” designation listed on the injury report was a result of him overcompensating while recovering from the groin injury.

Barring any setbacks this week, he appears on track to play Sunday in Detroit. #Bears
— Adam Hoge (@AdamHoge) September 11, 2025

This will be a much-needed addition for the Bears, as, like the Lions, they try to avoid the 0-2 start. In the Monday night loss to the Vikings, the Bears could've used the contributions of Johnson, as their secondary was dominated in the second half by Minnesota quarterback J.J. McCarthy after doing well against the rookie to start the game.

Johnson has played five seasons with the Bears since being drafted by the franchise with the 50th overall pick in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. In his career, Johnson has recorded 214 total tackles, seven interceptions, and four forced fumbles. Last season, Johnson recorded a career high of 53 total tackles, two interceptions, and one forced fumble.

Keys for the Lions against Johnson and the Bears secondary

The return of Johnson to the Bears' secondary this Sunday will present a challenge for Lions quarterback Jared Goff and Detroit's receiving group, including wide receivers Amon Ra-St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Kalif Raymond, and Isaac TeSlaa, as well as tight end Sam LaPorta.

The Lions will need to limit turnovers and put together successful offensive drives to beat the Bears on Sunday. Kickoff from Ford Field is set for 1 p.m. on FOX.

This article first appeared on Side Lion Report and was syndicated with permission.

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