(670 The Score) The Bears have two key reinforcements returning to their defense.
Pro Bowl cornerback Jaylon Johnson and standout nickelback Kyler Gordon were activated from injured reserve Thursday. Both will be eligible to return to action Friday, when the Bears visit the defending Super Bowl champion Eagles.
Johnson has played in just one game this season, a loss to the Lions on Sept. 14 in which he aggravated a groin injury. Johnson then underwent core muscle surgery to repair the injury. He returned to practice on Nov. 14 but didn't play in the ensuing two games.
A Pro Bowl selection the last two seasons, Johnson has seven interceptions in 71 career NFL games.
Gordon has been limited to just two games this season. He missed the early part of the season with a hamstring injury, then he went down with a calf injury. The Bears designated Gordon for a return to practice on Nov. 19.
The Bears officially listed Johnson and Gordon as questionable to play on their injury report, though they're of course in line to return.
The Bears ruled out linebacker T.J. Edwards (hand/hamstring), cornerback Tyrique Stevenson (hip), linebacker Ruben Hyppolite (shoulder), defensive end Dominique Robinson (concussion) and linebacker Noah Sewell (elbow) for Friday.
In other roster moves, the Bears placed rookie guard Luke Newman (foot) on injured reserve and waived running back Brittain Brown.
The Bears (8-3) and Eagles (8-3) will kick off at 2 p.m. CT on Friday in Philadelphia.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.