The Chicago Bears are already missing starting strong safety Jaquan Brisker for their Week 6 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. Now, cornerback Tyrique Stevenson may also be sidelined.
The Bears have listed Stevenson as “doubtful” on their final injury report for Sunday’s game. He was added to the report due to a calf injury after practice on October 10 and did not participate in the team’s last practice in London, raising concerns about his availability.
Brisker has been officially ruled out; he did not travel with the team to London due to a concussion. He sustained the injury after delivering a hard hit on Carolina Panthers tight end Tommy Tremble during Week 5, resulting in a fumble and leaving both players shaken. While Tremble exited the game, Brisker entered the league’s concussion protocol in the following week. This marks Brisker’s third concussion in three seasons with the Bears.
In Brisker’s absence, the Bears are expected to start Elijah Hicks at strong safety against the Jaguars. However, if Stevenson cannot play, Chicago will face challenges in their cornerback depth, especially with backup corner Terell Smith out due to a hip injury.
The Bears (3-2) will face the Jaguars (1-4) at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time on Sunday, October 13.
**Jaylon Jones to Start if Stevenson is Unavailable**
If Stevenson is unable to play due to his calf injury, head coach Matt Eberflus indicated that third-year backup Jaylon Jones will step into the lineup.
Although Jones has not seen much defensive action this season, he logged over 600 defensive snaps in his first two years, allowing 41 receptions for 451 yards and one touchdown on 59 targets. He has also been a consistent contributor to special teams throughout his career.
“He’s played for us a lot, and he’s one of those guys who knows our system inside and out,” Eberflus said on Friday. “The coaches have worked with him, and he has a solid understanding of the techniques and fundamentals.”
Additionally, third-year backup Josh Blackwell will be available for the Jaguars game, although his defensive experience is limited as well. The team might also consider promoting preseason standout Reddy Steward or second-year player Ameer Speed from the practice squad for game day.
