(670 The Score) The Bears have two key reinforcements returning to their defense.
Bears Pro Bowl cornerback Jaylon Johnson and standout nickelback Kyler Gordon have been activated from injured reserve. Both will be eligible to return for Friday's game against the defending Super Bowl champion Eagles.
Johnson has played in just part of one game this season, a Sept. 14 loss to the Lions in which he re-aggravated a groin injury. Johnson underwent core muscle surgery to repair the injury. He returned to practice Nov. 14 but did not play the last two games since.
A Pro Bowl selection the last two seasons, Johnson has seven interceptions in 71 career games.
Gordon has been limited to just two games this season. He missed the early season with a hamstring injury, then went down with a calf injury. The Bears designated Gordon for a return to practice Nov. 19.
The Bears officially listed Johnson and Gordon as questionable to play on their injury report, though they are 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's game.
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) kick off at 2 p.m. CT Friday from Philadelphia.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.