Three Takeaways from the Chicago Bears: Darnell Wright’s Back Injury and Keenan Allen’s Return to Practice.
The Chicago Bears returned to practice on Wednesday at Halas Hall in preparation for their game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday at Soldier Field.
Head coach Matt Eberflus, quarterback Caleb Williams, and other players addressed the media before practice, revealing several key updates.
1. **Right Tackle Darnell Wright Misses Practice Due to Back Injury**
Eberflus labeled Wright as “day to day” and expressed hope that he will be ready for Sunday. If he can’t play, the team is exploring options to fill in for the 2023 No. 10 draft pick. The offensive line is already dealing with adjustments, as guard/center Ryan Bates is on injured reserve with a shoulder injury. Right guard Nate Davis, who aggravated a groin injury last week, was replaced by Matt Pryor in the loss to the Indianapolis Colts. Davis was active but only played one snap.
Eberflus noted, “It was firm in the pocket, and Pryor did a nice job blocking at times. He had a couple of plays he wished he could have back, but overall he performed well.” At 6-foot-7 and 332 pounds, Pryor has played 78 games with 25 starts over six seasons across four teams and is also a candidate for swing tackle, despite currently focusing on guard.
Pryor commented on the transition from guard to tackle, saying it’s easier to shift to tackle on the same side rather than switch sides. He recalled moving from right tackle to guard during the 2021 season with the Colts due to a COVID-19 outbreak and felt confident in adapting if needed. He explained that the key difference between the two positions is the timing and quickness required.
2. **Wide Receiver Keenan Allen Returns to Practice**
Keenan Allen was back at practice after missing two games due to a heel injury that has troubled him for over a month. He did not travel to Indianapolis for personal reasons, but Eberflus mentioned that Allen focused on rehab over the weekend. He participated in practice on a limited basis on Wednesday, and Eberflus expressed hope that they wouldn’t have to constantly monitor Allen’s heel issue throughout the season.
