Aug 21, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Caleb Johnson (92) celebrates after recovering a fumble against the Buffalo Bills during the fourth quarter at Soldier Field. The Buffalo Bills won 41-15. Mandatory Credit: Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports
Due to COVID-19 protocols, Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerbacks coach Kevin Ross and Chicago Bears linebacker Caleb Johnson and offensive lineman Elijah Wilkinson were unavailable for Sunday’s game in Tampa.
Injured Tampa Bay cornerback Richard Sherman is expected to help fill Ross’ role on the sideline after doing the same this week in practice.
The Bucs (5-1) will also be without tight end Rob Gronkowski, wide receiver Antonio Brown and linebacker Lavonte David against the Bears (3-3).
Brown (ankle), David (ankle) and Sherman (hamstring) were injured in the Oct. 14 win in Philadelphia. Gronkowski (ribs) has not played since Week 3.
The Bears added Johnson and Wilkinson to the reserve/COVID-19 list Sunday, joining tight end Jimmy Graham (added Friday) and linebacker Robert Quinn (Tuesday).
Johnson, 23, has four tackles and a fumble recovery in special teams duty this season. Wilkinson, 26, started one of his six games this season.
The Bears also flexed offensive lineman Arlington Hambright from the practice squad to the active roster.
–Field Level Media