Bears' Jaylon Johnson aims to return in opener against Vikings

In the United States, the Chicago Bears are preparing for their season opener against the Minnesota Vikings, which is slated to take place on September 8, 2025. The Bears conducted a closed walkthrough at Halas Hall, focusing on strategies and player readiness. A key player, cornerback Jaylon Johnson, is currently recovering from a significant groin injury that hindered his participation in training camp. His absence has raised concerns about his game readiness, although Johnson reported feeling significantly improved and expressed optimism about playing in the upcoming match. He mentioned that he has been working hard to regain his form and conditioning after a challenging recovery process. Bears head coach Ben Johnson emphasized the necessity of caution concerning Jaylon Johnson's health. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the lengthy absence and the risk of re-injury, underlining the importance of ensuring that Johnson is not rushed back into game action prematurely. The coaching staff is committed to making informed decisions about player health, particularly for those returning from significant injuries, to preserve long-term player well-being. The team also made critical personnel announcements on the same day, naming Caleb Williams and Joe Thuney as offensive captains, while defensive leadership was granted to Kevin Byard and Grady Jarrett. Cairo Santos will lead the special teams. Coach Johnson also indicated that there would be an additional captain designated each week, a strategy that is aimed at fostering leadership within the team as they move through the season. As the Bears approach one of their most anticipated matchups of the season, they remain hopeful for a strong performance, particularly if Jaylon Johnson is cleared to play. The upcoming game against the Vikings marks the opening of Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli, adding an extra layer of excitement and viewer interest. This alternative telecast format has gained popularity, averaging 1.3 million viewers per episode, reflecting the strong audience engagement with the Manning brothers’ unique commentary style during NFL games. The Bears aim not only to start the season off strong but also to capitalize on this heightened visibility.