Chicago Bears: Gauging concern on recent rash of injuries
By Ryan Heckman
Two unique skill players in question
Tight End Adam Shaheen
Shaheen was seen limping off the field Saturday night after a catch where his foot seemed to stick into the ground a bit. It initially looked like it could have even been an achilles injury, so the fact that they’ve called it an ankle sprain is a huge plus.
Shaheen continued to receive more tests as of Monday morning and his status for Week 1 looked like it was more in doubt than just about any other player of note. With the uncertainty of his status, that will likely mean if the Bears choose to keep four tight ends, that fourth spot will be very important. If Shaheen misses time, the Bears will need another pass-catching option to throw out there in the red zone.
Level of concern: 7
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Wide Receiver Taylor Gabriel
Gabriel has been held out recently due to a foot injury, but thankfully it does not appear to be anything serious. Once again, Nagy is playing it safe.
Matt Nagy said he couldn't say for sure if Adam Shaheen, who has a sprained right ankle and was undergoing more tests this morning, would be ready for the opener. But Nagy does think Prince Amukamara (groin) and Taylor Gabriel (foot) will be good by Week 1.
— Colleen Kane (@ChiTribKane) August 20, 2018
If Gabriel were to miss any time in the regular season, someone else would need to step up. Anthony Miller is the only other receiver capable of doing some of the things Gabriel does in terms of speed. A third receiver would need to emerge from candidates like Kevin White, Josh Bellamy and Javon Wims (or so we think).
Gabriel does appear to be headed in the right direction, though, and we shouldn’t worry too much.
Level of concern: 1