(670 The Score) The Bears believe their defense can bounce back in 2021. To do that, they need to stay healthy, but they aren't off to a good start.
The Bears are already dealing with a rash of concerns on the injury report, with four key defensive starters listed ahead of their season opener against the Rams on Sunday night at SoFi Stadium. Nose tackle Eddie Goldman (knee) on Thursday remained sidelined from practice for a second straight day.
While Bears coach Matt Nagy indicated Thursday that Goldman is considered day-to-day, it seems as if he's trending toward missing the opener. Goldman suffered the injury during practice Monday, Nagy said.
Bears edge rusher Khalil Mack (groin) and edge rusher Robert Quinn (back) were both limited in practice Thursday, as was safety Tashaun Gipson (back). The Bears also listed receiver Darnell Mooney (back) and linebacker Joel Iyiegbuniwe (shoulder) as limited participants.
The Bears have until 3 p.m. CT Saturday to officially activate reinforcements from their practice squad. The team could turn to nose tackle Damion Square or defensive tackle Margus Hunt, each of who signed earlier this week after Goldman suffered his injury.
Kickoff between the Bears and Rams comes at 7:20 p.m. CT Sunday from SoFi Stadium.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.
