(670 The Score) With Khalil Herbert sidelined by an ankle injury and Roschon Johnson still dealing with a concussion, the Bears are set to turn to D'Onta Foreman to carry the workload in their banged-up backfield.
Foreman is expected to have the featured role Sunday as the Bears (1-4) host the Vikings (1-4) at Soldier Field. He has been active for just one game this season, carrying five times for 16 yards.
The 27-year-old Foreman ran for a career-best 914 yards and five touchdowns with the Panthers in 2023.
"There's a ton to like," Bears offensive coordinator Luke Getsy said of Foreman. "His play style, his downhill running, his violent, explosive gains. So, we're excited to see what he can put out there this week."
On Friday, the Bears placed Herbert on injured reserve and also officially ruled out Johnson and reserve running back Travis Homer (hamstring) for Sunday. Herbert will be required to miss at least four weeks. Running back Darrynton Evans was signed off the Dolphins' practice squad earlier this week to provide depth.
While the Bears' backfield is plagued by injury, their secondary is getting healthier. Cornerback Jaylon Johnson was listed without an injury designation Friday after missing the past two games due to a hamstring strain. Cornerback Kyler Gordon also doesn't carry an injury designation, an indication that he'll return Sunday after missing the past four games due to a hand injury. Gordon is on injured reserve right now, and the Bears have until Saturday at 3 p.m. CT to activate him.
Safety Eddie Jackson is questionable with a foot injury, which has sidelined him for the past three games. Offensive lineman Lucas Patrick is also questionable due to a concussion.
Bears receiver Equanimeous St. Brown (hamstring) and defensive back Terell Smith (ankle/illness) were each ruled out. Like Herbert, Brown was also placed on injured reserve Friday, meaning he'll have to miss at least four weeks. Chicago elevated quarterback Nathan Peterman from the practice squad to the active roster in a corresponding move.
The Bears and the Vikings kick off at noon CT Sunday from Soldier Field.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.