The Bears‘ ailing run defense has a new challenge with starting defensive tackle Andrew Billings out. Billings injured a pectoral muscle Sunday against the Cardinals, and coach Matt Eberflus said Wednesday he will need surgery and “be out quite some time.” Most players with that injury are out for season.
Billings, 29, was a key free-agent signing in 2023 and has started 25 of 25 game since joining the Bears. He is regarded as one of their best run-stoppers and has 13 tackles, including one sack.
The Bears are allowing five yards per carry (29th in the NFL) and 131.6 per game (20th). In their 29-9 loss to the Cardinals, they allowed 213 yards at a rate of 6.3 per rush.
The Bears also will not have safety Jaquan Brisker this week. He has been out since suffering a concussion Oct. 6 against the Panthers and will miss his fourth game Sunday against the Patriots.