Chicago Bears won’t face Minnesota Vikings’ top rushing threat in Week 2

The Chicago Bears took the NFL world by storm with their legs in Week 1, rushing for 291 yards and six touchdowns in their 59-37 victory. However, the Bears must be concerned with how opposing teams will attack their own run defense.

In Week 1, the Carolina Panthers managed to gain 125 yards and two touchdowns on the ground, averaging 5.7 yards per carry. Unless Chicago is able to up their play, teams will continue to attack them on the ground.

The Minnesota Vikings will certainly look to establish the run in Week 2. While they average just 3.1 yards per carry against the Green Bay Packers, Minnesota still gained 107 yards and two touchdowns. Based on their quarterback situation, they may have to rely on their ground game more often than usual.

However, the Vikings won’t have all their weapons at their disposal. An unfortunate injury has shook up the Week 2 matchup.

Vikings down Jordan Mason against Chicago Bears

Chicago Bears opponent Jordan Mason — Sep 13, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Jordan Mason (27) runs for a touchdown during the second half as Green Bay Packers safety Xavier McKinney (29) defends at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

The Vikings have placed Mason on injured reserve with a thumb injury, the team announced. Fellow running back DeeJay Dallas has been signed to the 53-man roster while Jerome Ford was added to the practice squad.

Head Coach Kevin O’Connell announces the #Vikings have placed RB Jordan Mason (thumb) on IR and signed RB DeeJay Dallas to the 53-man roster.

RB Jerome Ford has also been signed to the practice squad. pic.twitter.com/3ixNEuxzGt

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) September 16, 2026

Mason led Minnesota with 15 carries for 59 yards and a touchdown against Green Bay. In his first season with the franchise, the running back gained 758 yards and a career-high six touchdowns on 159 carries. His loss will deal a massive blow to the Vikings’ ground game.

In his absence, the Vikings will turn to Aaron Jones, who the Bears have plenty of experience with. He ran for 40 yards and a touchdown in Week 1. Chicago’s preparation will now shift to leaning Jones’ tendencies.

With where their defense currently stands, the Bears must be prepared for any running back who touches the rock. But at least in Week 2, they know they won’t be facing off against Mason.

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