Darnell Wright returns to practice as Bears’ top backs remain limited

The Bears got a needed step forward from right tackle Darnell Wright on Thursday, but their backfield remains a watch item before Sunday’s home opener against Minnesota. Wright, listed with a knee issue, returned to practice on a limited basis after sitting out Wednesday.

D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai stayed limited. Swift is managing ankle and knee issues after running for 124 yards and three touchdowns in Chicago’s 59-37 season-opening win at Carolina. Monangai is listed with a hamstring injury after adding 100 rushing yards and a 61-yard touchdown on 10 carries in the opener.

The rest of Thursday’s report showed limited work for Malik Muhammad, Dayo Odeyingbo, Ozzy Trapilo and Xavier Woods. Neville Gallimore and Grady Jarrett practiced fully, while Joe Thuney received a rest day. None of the Bears had a game designation on the report available Thursday, so Friday’s practice and the final status list remain the next checkpoints.

Wright’s return matters against a Vikings front that can stress the edges, while Swift and Monangai’s availability will shape how much of Chicago’s two-back attack coach Ben Johnson can use. The Bears have time to get a clearer answer before kickoff, but Thursday’s report moved Wright in the right direction without resolving the backfield question.