The Chicago Bears’ injury woes worsened on Saturday after Friday’s report already highlighted a weakened offensive line protecting rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.
Although Doug Kramer wasn’t listed earlier in the week, the backup center and part-time fullback has been downgraded from questionable to doubtful for Sunday’s clash with the Lions, per Bears Communications on X.
Despite the update, starting linemen Teven Jenkins and Braxton Jones remain questionable, with no changes to their Week 16 statuses.
The Bears’ offensive line injuries are piling up, and the lack of depth is becoming a pressing issue.
While Jenkins and Jones could potentially play, Kramer’s doubtful designation suggests little hope he’ll suit up against Detroit.
Caleb Williams at Risk Following Doug Kramer’s Injury Update
In Week 15 against Minnesota, rookie Kiran Amegadjie started his first NFL game, filling in for the injured Jones at left tackle. Although he had appeared in games previously, it was his first-ever start.
Minnesota took full advantage of Amegadjie’s inexperience.
He drew four penalties and allowed four pressures, three hurries, and a sack, according to PFF.
Kramer’s likely absence against Detroit doesn’t drastically alter things since he’s a backup. However, with the Bears’ offensive line rapidly depleting, they urgently need their starters back.
Williams has been sacked a league-high 58 times for 402 yards, enduring significant punishment in his first NFL season.
Against a Lions team plagued by injuries, Williams hopes some key linemen return to shield him.
If not, Sunday could be a tough outing for the rookie quarterback.
Though the Bears have no playoff hopes, Williams’ focus for the rest of the season is staying healthy and developing his skills.
His debut season hasn’t been flawless, but given the circumstances in 2024, it could have been much worse.
With a battered line ahead of him in Week 16, Williams may face a rough afternoon if Jones and Jenkins remain sidelined.
