Chicago Bears second-year running back Kyle Monangai is making progress in his recovery, giving the team reason for optimism after his recent injury.
Bears HC Ben Johnson said Monangai remains week-to-week but is “trending in the right direction.” The encouraging assessment comes with the running back avoiding injured reserve, leaving open the possibility of a return without an extended roster absence.
Johnson did not provide a specific return date, and Monangai has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Atlanta Falcons. His week-to-week designation means Chicago will continue evaluating his recovery rather than committing to a timetable.
The update matters for a Bears offense that could benefit from having its full running back rotation available. Monangai’s return would give Chicago another option alongside D’Andre Swift and help the coaching staff manage the workload in the backfield.
If Monangai cannot play against Atlanta, Swift could handle a larger share of the rushing opportunities, with the coaching staff adjusting the rotation around him. Chicago would need to maintain balance offensively while its second-year back continues recovering.
Johnson’s comments also suggest the team is not ready to rule Monangai out for an extended period. Avoiding injured reserve preserves flexibility, although it does not guarantee the second-year back will be cleared to play in the coming days.
Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
The Bears face an important decision as they prepare for Atlanta, but Monangai’s longer-term recovery remains the priority. Rushing him back before he is ready could create unnecessary risk after the injury.
For now, the clearest takeaway is that Monangai is progressing without a confirmed return date. Chicago will monitor his recovery and determine when he can safely resume playing.
Johnson’s positive assessment offers encouragement, but the next update will be crucial in establishing whether Monangai can return soon or needs additional time.
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