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In an effort to avoid a 1-3 start to the season, the New York Jets are in Chicago to take on the Bears on Sunday. However, the Jets are severely banged up, with multiple starters sidelined and riding a two-game losing streak. The Bears are also dealing with injuries, as they will be without their starting quarterback, Caleb Williams.
With both teams fielding depleted lineups, the inactive lists reveal several important storylines. For the Jets, the absences of running back Breece Hall, left guard Dylan Parham, wide receiver Adonai Mitchell, tight end Mason Taylor, edge rusher Kingsley Enagbare, cornerback Nahshon Wright, and linebacker Kiko Mauigoa are significant. Nearly half of New York's offensive starters will miss the game due to various injuries.
The loss of Parham is particularly concerning, as he had been a bright spot on the offensive line. The Bears' defense was impressive in the second half against the Eagles last week, so these offensive injuries could be a major detriment to the Jets.
Key Analysis
Despite the injuries, the Jets may still find success running the ball against Chicago's defense, which ranks 22nd in the league. With Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis leading the way, New York could exploit that weakness. The return of rookie tight end Kenyon Sadiq and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick is a boost; both practiced fully during the week. Fitzpatrick missed the last two games with a groin injury, while Sadiq was questionable.
On defense, the Jets will be without Kingsley Enagbare, who was injured in practice. The defensive line will rely on David Bailey, Joseph Ossai, Will McDonald, and Braiden McGregor in rotation. Additionally, Nahshon Wright is a healthy scratch for the second consecutive week, and with the trade deadline approaching, his name could surface in trade rumors.
For the Bears, the absence of Caleb Williams means Tyson Bagent will start at quarterback. The decision to start Bagent over Case Keenum, who had an excellent Monday night appearance, will be closely watched. Chicago's offensive line, one of the best in the league, will be without left tackle Ozzy Trapilo, who is hurt, and Braxton Jones, who is on injured reserve, forcing them to start a backup at left tackle. The Jets must exploit that matchup to have a chance to win.
Chicago's starting nickel corner, Cam Lewis, is out with an injury. With Sadiq healthy and wide receiver Garrett Wilson excelling in the slot, the Jets may target the middle of the field frequently.