NFL Injury Report: New England Patriots and Chicago Bears Place Key Players on Injured Reserve

Key Takeaways

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New England Patriots:

• Starting linebacker Mack Wilson placed on injured reserve with ankle injury.
• Patriots defense already depleted by injuries to several key players.
• Wilson's absence creates a significant hole in the Patriots' linebacker corps.

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Chicago Bears:

• Wide receiver N'Keal Harry placed on injured reserve with ankle injury.
• Harry was acquired from the Patriots in a trade this offseason.
• His absence leaves the Bears thin at wide receiver, especially with Darnell Mooney also injured.

The New England Patriots and Chicago Bears have both placed key players on injured reserve, further depleting their rosters ahead of the 2023 NFL season.

The Patriots placed linebacker Mack Wilson on injured reserve on Tuesday with an ankle injury. Wilson, who was signed by the Patriots as a free agent this offseason, was expected to start at linebacker alongside Ja'Whaun Bentley. His injury is a significant blow to the Patriots' defense, which is already without several key players, including cornerback Jalen Mills (groin) and safety Kyle Dugger (ankle).

The Bears placed wide receiver N'Keal Harry on injured reserve on Wednesday with an ankle injury. Harry was acquired by the Bears from the Patriots in a trade this offseason, and was expected to play a significant role in the Bears' offense. His injury leaves the Bears thin at wide receiver, especially with Darnell Mooney also injured.

Impact on the Patriots Defense

Wilson's injury is a major setback for the Patriots' defense. He was expected to be a key part of the Patriots' pass rush, and his absence will put more pressure on the Patriots' other linebackers, including Bentley and Anfernee Jennings. The Patriots may also consider signing a free agent linebacker to fill Wilson's spot on the roster.

Impact on the Bears Offense

Harry's injury is a significant blow to the Bears' offense. He was expected to be a key target for quarterback Justin Fields, and his absence will make it more difficult for the Bears to move the ball through the air. The Bears may consider signing a free agent wide receiver to fill Harry's spot on the roster, or they may look to promote a player from their practice squad.

Conclusion

The injuries to Wilson and Harry are significant setbacks for the Patriots and Bears, respectively. Both players were expected to play key roles on their respective teams, and their absences will make it more challenging for both teams to achieve their goals in 2023.