Bye Bears: 3 Chicago players who could come off injured reserve next week

After this weekend's Bye, three Chicago Bears' backups could come off injured reserve next week to help Ben Johnson's team.

Bears defensive end Austin Booker (94) celebrates after sacking Bills quarterback Mike White (14) in the preseason. | David Banks-Imagn Images

As Chicago Bears fans spend an otherwise relaxing Bye weekend rooting against the NFC North rival Minnesota Vikings (at Browns) and Detroit Lions (at Bengals), there is cause for optimism in what's coming next week.

Not necessarily the Week 6 visit to the Washington Commanders on Monday Night Football Oct. 13, but more the return of some healthy players. At 2-2 with consecutive wins, the Bears could use some reinforcements and they just might be coming.

MORE: Bears' Caleb Williams shockingly ranks No. 1 among NFL QBs in important category

Though starting cornerback Jaylon Johnson underwent groin surgery and likely won't return until late in the season, three Bears are poised to be activated off Injured reserve:

Austin Booker, DE - Out since the preseason win over the Buffalo Bills, his presence as a pass-rusher would be a refreshing addition to the Bears' defense. Chicago has only five sacks, ranking 26th in the NFL. Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen will still rely heavily on Montez Sweat and Day Odeyingbo, but Booker could lift his unit.

MORE: Bears' disappointing class of newcomers left off NFL's quarter-pole All-Rookie team

Amen Ogbongbemiga, LB - He will make more of an impact on special teams, but will also help a linebacking group that has been diminished by an injury that has limited starter T.J. Edwards only one game.

Travis Homer, RB - Also primarily a special teams contributor, but with the sad state of the Bears' running game maybe he'll get a chance to carry the football. Chicago's 3.8 yards-per-carry is 8th-worst in the league.

Bears defensive end Austin Booker (94) against the Cardinals in 2024. | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

More Chicago Bears News

• Chicago Bears trending up and trending down the most at the bye

• Biggest Chicago Bears difference makers in reversal of fortunes

• Chicago Bears self scout can reveal solutions after flawed 2-2 start

• How the Bears became too much of a finesse team and their quick fixes