Chicago Bears Sign Defensive Starter’s Brother After Devastating TJ Edwards Injury
The Chicago Bears have made a move to bolster their linebacker depth ahead of their Divisional Round playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams. On Tuesday, the team announced the signing of linebacker Nephi Sewell to the practice squad, a move necessitated by a season-ending injury to starter T.J. Edwards.
Chicago Bears Sign Nephi Sewell
Edwards suffered a fractured leg during the Bears’ thrilling 31-27 comeback victory over the Green Bay Packers in the Wild Card round. His placement on injured reserve created a significant hole in the Bears’ defense, which was already without starting strongside linebacker Noah Sewell, who landed on IR on New Year’s Eve.
A Family Affair and Depth Signing
The signing of Nephi Sewell brings a familiar name to the Halas Hall locker room, as he is the older brother of the injured Noah Sewell. While it’s unlikely Nephi will be elevated to the active roster for this weekend’s game, his addition provides the Bears with an experienced body for practice and an emergency option for special teams as the team advances deeper into the postseason.
Nephi Sewell, a fourth-year veteran, has played in 30 career games, all with the New Orleans Saints. His most significant action came during the 2023 season when he played 57 defensive snaps and was a core special teams contributor, logging 266 snaps in that phase of the game.
The Sewell family has deep roots in the NFL. The most prominent member is Detroit Lions All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell. The brothers are also related to Kansas City Chiefs guard Kingsley Sunamataia and have two uncles, Richard Brown and Isaac Sopoaga, who previously played in the league.
Navigating Injuries at Linebacker
Losing a player of T.J. Edwards’ caliber is a major blow for a Bears defense preparing to face the high-powered Rams offense. Edwards was a key contributor when healthy, even recording a game-opening pick-six in Week 17.
With both Edwards and Noah Sewell sidelined, the Bears will rely heavily on star middle linebacker Tremaine Edmunds and D’Marco Jackson to lead the unit. In a corresponding move to the Edwards injury, the team also signed veteran Jalen Reeves-Maybin from the practice squad to the 53-man roster. Reeves-Maybin, a 2023 Pro Bowl selection for his special teams play, will provide immediate depth and experience.
As the Bears continue their improbable playoff run, their ability to overcome injuries at a key position will be critical. While Nephi Sewell’s signing is a minor transaction, it underscores the “next man up” mentality Chicago must embrace as they prepare for their toughest test of the season this Sunday against the Rams.
