Bears Defensive End Dayo Odeyingbo Suffers Achilles Injury, Out for Season
Chicago Bears defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo will miss the remainder of the 2025 NFL season after sustaining an Achilles injury during yesterday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals, a significant blow to the team’s pass rush.
The injury occurred with 7:04 remaining in the fourth quarter of the 47-42 victory over Cincinnati, as Odeyingbo’s ankle appeared to give out during a one-on-one matchup. The 26-year-old edge rusher had recorded 21 tackles, four quarterback hits, and one sack in eight games this season. Odeyingbo signed a three-year, $48 million contract with the Bears in March after four seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, becoming a key part of their defensive strategy.
This is the third injury to a Bears defensive lineman in the past two weeks, following ACL surgery for rookie Shemar Turner and a high ankle sprain for Dominique Robinson. Coach Ben Johnson acknowledged the challenges, stating, “It’s one of those deals where it feels like we take some strides at particular positions, then we take some steps back… It’s wild.” The team recently activated Austin Booker off injured reserve, and he recorded a sack in the game against the Bengals; you can find more information about the Chicago Bears roster on the official NFL website.
With the NFL trade deadline approaching, the Bears may explore options to bolster their pass rush. Johnson indicated that he and General Manager Ryan Poles are actively evaluating potential acquisitions, balancing immediate needs with long-term roster considerations. “We’ve got some depth,” Johnson said, “You can never have too many pass rushers.” The Bears have been active at the trade deadline in recent years, including acquiring Montez Sweat in 2023; learn more about the Bears’ salary cap situation at Spotrac.
Johnson and Poles are continuing discussions about potential improvements to the roster, with a focus on both immediate impact and future implications.
