The Chicago Bears' Week 17 clash against the San Francisco 49ers ended in a heartbreaking defeat, but the bigger loss for the franchise could be a long-term one. Despite having already secured the NFC North division title, the Bears' postseason preparations were clouded by significant injury concerns emerging from the thrilling contest.
Key Players Fall in High-Stakes Battle
While the narrow loss to the 49ers may impact playoff seeding ahead of the final week, the immediate focus shifted to the medical room. Two crucial players were injured during the game. Wide receiver Luther Burden was shaken up on the final play, but initial reports suggest his issue is not serious.
The situation is far more grave for linebacker Noah Sewell. The defensive standout suffered a suspected Achilles tear, a potentially season-ending injury that casts a shadow over the team's Super Bowl aspirations.
Devastating Blow: Sewell's Suspected Achilles Tear
According to a report from NFL Network's trusted insider Ian Rapoport, Sewell is believed to have torn his Achilles tendon. "Bears LB Noah Sewell, who has been a key part of the defense, especially with all the injuries to the position, is believed to have torn his Achilles, sources say," Rapoport stated. A confirming MRI scan is pending, but the outlook is bleak.
This injury is catastrophic for both the player and the team's defensive schemes. A confirmed tear would not only end Sewell's 2025 regular season and playoff run but would also likely impact his availability at the start of the 2026 campaign.
Impact on Bears' Defense and Playoff Hopes
The timing of this injury is particularly cruel. The Bears face the Detroit Lions in Week 18, a game where Sewell was poised for a personal showdown against his brother, Lions offensive lineman Penei Sewell. More critically, his absence creates a major void in the defensive lineup just as the playoffs intensify.
At just 23 years old, Sewell had rapidly become a cornerstone of Chicago's defense. This season, he recorded 54 tackles and three tackles for a loss, proving his worth as a disruptive force. His departure thrusts more responsibility onto fellow linebackers Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards, who must now adjust quickly to cover the gap.
Although the Bears have locked in their playoff spot by winning the NFC North, the path through the postseason becomes markedly tougher without one of their rising defensive stars. Critical defensive plays in single-elimination games will now need to come from a depleted unit, testing the team's depth and resilience.
Sewell's recovery journey will be long and challenging, placing the spotlight firmly on how the Bears' defense adapts in his absence. The team's championship mettle will be tested earlier than expected.
