ESPN NEWS: Bears make roster moves, sign former Pro Bowler to the practice squad

The Chicago Bears made multiple roster alterations on Wednesday to ensure they are ready for Sunday’s game in Green Bay.

With long snapper Patrick Scales out due to a foot injury suffered against the Falcons, the Bears added 2013 Pro Bowl long snapper Matt Overton to the practice squad. Overton has played in 139 NFL games since joining the Seahawks in training camp in 2007, and the Bears are his 13th professional football franchise. His first NFL snap was with the Colts in 2012, and he last snapped for the Cowboys in 2022.

To make room on the practice squad for Overton, the Bears added wide receiver Collin Johnson to the active roster. Johnson appeared in the last two games after being promoted from the practice squad, and with Darnell Mooney still in concussion protocol and DJ Moore limited, the Bears might need another wideout in case Mooney is unable to participate.

DeMarquis Gates, a linebacker, was waived to create way for Johnson on the 53-man roster.

The Bears’ injury report for this week is below.
Head coach Matt Eberflus was upbeat about Cole Kmet and Jaylon Johnson’s status, adding, “They just need another day with the trainers to get ready.”