Chicago Bears: Gauging concern on recent rash of injuries

Some key defenders are out

Defensive End Akiem Hicks

Hicks is dealing with a knee injury, which caught some of us off guard on Monday.

Prior to the game against Denver, no one really knew much about Hicks’ knee. When he didn’t take the field Saturday night, then the questions started coming. For now, it looks to be more of a precautionary thing, which is a positive. But, anytime your top defensive lineman is hurt, you’re at least a bit worrisome.

Level of concern: 2

Outside Linebacker Leonard Floyd

Floyd suffered a fracture in his hand, including his middle and index fingers. Monday, he had surgery to repair it. Head coach Matt Nagy told reporters it went well.

Coach Nagy also told reporters that he is optimistic regarding Floyd’s status for Week 1, so take that for what it’s worth — which is much more than anything John Fox ever gave us, that’s for sure.

Teammate Roy Robertson-Harris told ESPN he talked to Floyd and that he didn’t seem to have any doubts the linebacker would suit up against the Packers:

"“I talked to him. I think Leonard’s going to be fine. He’s going to come back and rush his butt off.”"

Let’s hope Robertson-Harris is right, because without Floyd, the Bears’ pass rush is virtually non-existent. Even with Floyd on the field wearing a club, that defense is better.

Level of concern: 5

Cornerback Prince Amukamara

Amukamara was held out Saturday night due to a groin injury. As Nagy addressed reporters today he also said he thought Amukamara would play Week 1. I am not sure if he will end up playing in either of the remaining preseason games, but my guess is that Nagy would err on the side of caution. The chances of Amukamara missing any regular season time sounded slim, which is great for the defense.

Level of concern: 1