Chicago Bears Reveal Key Roster Changes

The Chicago Bears have made significant roster adjustments ahead of the upcoming games. On Tuesday, the team announced that linebacker T.J. Edwards and offensive lineman Ozzy Trapilo have been placed on Reserve/Injured. In a move to strengthen their lineup, the Bears activated offensive lineman Braxton Jones and signed linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin to the active roster. Additionally, linebacker Nephi Sewell has been added to the practice squad.

Roster Changes Overview

• Placed on Reserve/Injured:
  • T.J. Edwards (Linebacker)
  • Ozzy Trapilo (Offensive Lineman)
• Activated:
  • Braxton Jones (Offensive Lineman)
• Signed:
  • Jalen Reeves-Maybin (Linebacker)
  • Nephi Sewell (Practice Squad)

Braxton Jones’ Career Milestones

Braxton Jones has become a pivotal figure on the Bears’ offensive line. Selected in the fifth round (168th overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft, he has started 44 of 46 career games at left tackle. Jones had a strong rookie year in 2022, starting all 17 games. This season, he played in the first four games, contributing to a performance against Dallas where the Bears’ offensive line did not allow any sacks.

Jones is a native of Murray, Utah, and played at Southern Utah from 2017-2021. He was named First-Team AP FCS All-America following his final collegiate season.

Reeves-Maybin’s Impact

Jalen Reeves-Maybin, now in his ninth NFL season, originally joined the Bears prior to Week 12 of the previous season. He has since played in three games with the team. Over his career, he has participated in 117 regular-season games, starting 14 of them. His resume includes time with the Detroit Lions, Houston Texans, and Chicago Bears.

In 2023, Reeves-Maybin was recognized with AP Second-Team All-Pro honors and achieved Pro Bowl status for his contributions primarily on special teams. He has tallied 160 tackles, with 63 on special teams, throughout his professional journey.

Nephi Sewell’s Arrival

Nephi Sewell is the latest addition to the Bears’ practice squad. The linebacker has played in 30 career games since entering the NFL with the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2022. Throughout his career, he has registered 18 tackles, four for loss, and one forced fumble, along with eight tackles on special teams.

Originally from St. George, Utah, Sewell played at Nevada and concluded his college career at Utah, where he was named AP First-Team All-Pac-12 Conference after a standout season in 2021. He is the older brother of fellow Bears linebacker Noah Sewell.