Lake Forest, Ill. – The Chicago Bears confirmed on Wednesday that defensive tackle Kentavius Street has been placed on injured reserve, ending his season after a knee injury suffered in the win over Seattle.
Street’s season cut short
Street, 30, signed a one‑year deal with Chicago in March and started the first seven games of the 2026 season, recording one sack. After the Bears acquired Jeffery Simmons from Tennessee, Street moved to a reserve role and was used sparingly against the Seahawks. He left the 34‑17 victory at Seattle with a knee injury and was unable to return.
Coach Ben Johnson’s outlook
Head coach Ben Johnson said Street is “likely done for the year.” Johnson also noted that left tackle Braxton Jones, who was placed on IR in early October, will miss the remainder of the season following knee surgery. Theo Benedet stepped in for Jones but suffered a shoulder injury during the Seattle game.
“We’ve got a few guys that we’re gonna have to see over the course of the week here whether they’ll be available or not,” Johnson said, emphasizing the need for depth on the offensive line.
Roster moves and injuries
In addition to Street’s IR designation, the Bears signed tight end Stephen Carlson to the active roster. Defensive lineman Earnest Brown was moved back to the practice squad to make room for Carlson.
Running back Kyle Monangai, a 24‑year‑old seventh‑round pick, has missed the last four games with thumb and toe injuries. He has 60 carries for 324 yards and three touchdowns in four games and could return as soon as this weekend.
Offensive adjustments
With Monangai sidelined, Chicago has leaned more heavily on running back D’Andre Swift. The 27‑year‑old posted a season‑high 27 carries for 69 yards and three touchdowns in the Seattle win. “He’s not a guy that we want to wear down,” Johnson explained. “We’re going to need him for the whole duration of the season. We’re certainly conscious of it and it’s something we monitor over the course of a game.”
Upcoming matchup
The Bears head into Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who currently lead the league in rushing yards per game at 168.6. Chicago enters the contest on a three‑game winning streak but will need to address the injuries along its line and backfield to maintain momentum.
Despite the setbacks, the coaching staff remains optimistic about the team’s depth and the ability of younger players to step up. The Bears will continue to evaluate health reports throughout the week as they prepare for the Buccaneers showdown.
Original reporting: Capitol City Now (WTAX 1240 Springfield) — read the source article.
