The availability of multiple defensive starters for the Bears' primetime game in San Francisco Sunday night is in question due to a combination of injuries and illness.
Cornerback Nahshon Wright (hamstring/illness), linebacker T.J. Edwards (glute) and nickel back C.J. Gardner-Johnson (knee) are all listed as questionable for the game. Wright did not participate in Friday's practice, Edwards was limited and Gardner-Johnson was a full participant.
The Bears' cornerback depth could be tested even more, as Josh Blackwell is also questionable to play and Nick McCloud has been ruled out due to illness. Blackwell did not practice Thursday or Friday.
"It's this time of year," coach Ben Johnson said. "I doubt we're the only team dealing with [illnesses]. We're washing our hands, we're being very diligent. Guys have masks on. You do what you can. Whoever is available here on gameday, we'll look to win with. If a guy can't go, we'll be ready."
On the offensive side, the Bears will get back one of their explosive pass catchers in rookie receiver Luther Burden III (ankle), who has no designation for the Sunday's game. Burden was injured against the Browns Dec. 14 and missed last week's win versus Green Bay.
"Being on the sideline is not fun," Burden told reporters Friday. "It's good to cheer the guys on, but I want to be out there helping them, going out there and competing and continue to win games."
Receiver Rome Odunze (foot) has been ruled out for a fourth straight contest after not practicing all week while rookie offensive lineman Luke Newman (foot) remains on injured reserve, but is questionable for Sunday.
