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Bears Announce Big Roster Move After Injury Onslaught Ahead of Week 10

The Chicago Bears received a boost to their offensive line before the Patriots matchup.

By Joseph Grassano

Oct 27, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus looks on during the second half against the Washington Commanders at Commanders Field. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-Imagn Images
Oct 27, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus looks on during the second half against the Washington Commanders at Commanders Field. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-Imagn Images / Peter Casey-Imagn Images
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The Chicago Bears' offensive line has been dealt a rough hand of injuries in recent weeks. Left tackle Braxton Jones suffered a knee injury, right tackle Darnell Wright sprained his MCL, and backup guard Bill Murray tore his pec.

Both Wright and Jones have been ruled out for Sunday's game against the New England Patriots. Fortunately, Bears fans received some good news following Friday's practice about the offensive line.

According to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, guard/center Ryan Bates has been activated to the 53-man roster.

Bears News: Chicago Activating OL Ryan Bates Ahead of Week 10

Bates was placed on injured reserve due to shoulder and elbow injuries after Week 1. In his absence, the Bears have struggled to have stability at right guard, cycling through Nate Davis, Matt Pryor, and Bill Murray to try and find the right answer.

Murray seemed to be the best option but then he got hurt. Now, with Bates returning, the Bears get a solid option to help protect Caleb Williams at guard.

While Bates also provides the flexibility to play center, the Bears most likely won't start him there this season. Current center Coleman Shelton and Williams have built up a good chemistry over the first eight games that the Bears don't want to ruin.

Although many fans haven't been impressed with Shelton's performance at center, they are going to have to make peace with it for the rest of the season. Nonetheless, Bates's reinsertion into the lineup will massively help this struggling Bears offensive front.

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