Braxton Jones named starter as Chicago Bears prepare for Panthers

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 10:28 PM

Last updated Sep 8, 2026

Braxton Jones named starter as Chicago Bears prepare for Panthers
Summary

Chicago Bears coach Ben Johnson confirmed Tuesday that Braxton Jones will start at left tackle for the season opener against the Carolina Panthers. Jones, who has navigated a minor right knee injury during training camp, enters the season in better physical condition than a year ago. Meanwhile, wide receiver Rome Odunze remains day to day with an undisclosed right foot or leg injury after missing consecutive practices. Coach Johnson expressed optimism regarding his availability for Sunday. Running backs D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai participated in practice, with Monangai continuing to work through a hyperextended knee. Additionally, second-year wide receiver Luther Burden III confirmed he is ready to play after missing time during camp with a groin injury.

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Status Watch
  • Braxton Jones is the confirmed Week 1 starter at left tackle.
  • Rome Odunze remains day to day with an undisclosed leg or foot injury.
  • Caleb Williams, Joe Thuney, Grady Jarrett, T.J. Edwards, and Cairo Santos were voted team captains.
  • Luther Burden III is cleared to return to action after a groin injury.
  • Ozzy Trapilo remains limited to individual drills as he recovers from a January knee injury.
Latest Updates
  • 10:28 PMYahoo SportsWhat we learned from Chicago Bears, including Braxton Jones winning the LT job and the latest on Rome Odunze
What they're saying
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Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze missed practice for the second consecutive day Tuesday as he deals with an undisclosed right foot or leg injury. Coach Ben Johnson called Odunze “day to day” and noted that the injury is not the same foot injury that nagged Odunze for much of last season. The Bears, who open the season Sunday against the Carolina Panthers, don’t have to release their ...

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