Chairshot NFL News Report (10/23/2026): Bears Win Thursday Thriller, Chiefs Lose Simmons & Rams Face Another Injury Scare

Chicago beats New England, the Chiefs lose Josh Simmons to IR, Puka Nacua suffers another injury, and Pittsburgh cancels a Paris event.

The Chicago Bears are 5-2 after defeating New England on Thursday Night Football, but their fourth victory in five games came with a potentially significant injury to tight end Cole Kmet. Caleb Williams delivered another impressive performance, Luther Burden III emerged as a major offensive weapon, and the Patriots saw their three-game winning streak come to an end.

Elsewhere, Kansas City placed offensive tackle Josh Simmons on injured reserve, the Los Angeles Rams received another injury scare involving Puka Nacua, and Seattle activated Zach Charbonnet while losing tight end Elijah Arroyo for the season. Philadelphia also received encouraging news regarding Saquon Barkley, while Baltimore continues evaluating Lamar Jackson’s ankle ahead of an important AFC North matchup.

The NFL’s historic game in Paris encountered a new complication Thursday when Pittsburgh canceled a planned fan event because of security concerns surrounding ongoing civil unrest in France. Sunday’s game against New Orleans remains scheduled, but the cancellation illustrates the additional challenges facing the league as it continues expanding internationally.

It’s the Chairshot NFL News Report for October 23, 2026!

Bears Defeat Patriots 30-24, Improve to 5-2

Chicago continued its recent surge Thursday night, defeating the New England Patriots 30-24 at Soldier Field behind another strong performance from Caleb Williams. The quarterback completed 22 of 33 passes for 308 yards and two touchdowns, helping the Bears improve to 5-2 with their fourth victory in five games.

Luther Burden III provided the biggest offensive contributions, catching four passes for 130 yards and a touchdown. The rookie receiver repeatedly created problems for New England’s secondary, including a 58-yard reception that helped establish Chicago’s early advantage and another touchdown reception shortly before halftime.

The Bears jumped ahead 10-0 during the first quarter, with Cairo Santos connecting on a 43-yard field goal before D’Andre Swift scored on a 4-yard touchdown run. New England responded with a 7-yard touchdown run from Drake Maye, but Chicago maintained control throughout most of the first half.

The final seconds before halftime produced one of the evening’s most entertaining sequences. Williams connected with Burden for a 24-yard touchdown with 14 seconds remaining, extending Chicago’s lead to 20-7, but Maye answered on the final play of the half by finding Rhamondre Stevenson for a 48-yard touchdown that reduced the deficit to 20-14.

Chicago restored its advantage during the third quarter when Williams connected with Colston Loveland for a 12-yard touchdown. New England answered with a 30-yard touchdown reception by Eli Raridon, keeping the Patriots within striking distance and setting up a competitive fourth quarter.

Maye finished with 321 passing yards, two touchdowns and one interception while adding a rushing touchdown. Stevenson contributed five receptions for 93 yards, providing important production for an offense operating with several replacement offensive linemen.

The Patriots remained competitive into the final minutes, but Santos delivered the decisive points with a career-long 58-yard field goal that extended Chicago’s lead to 30-21. Andy Borregales connected from 47 yards with 37 seconds remaining to bring New England within six points, but the Bears recovered the ensuing onside kick and exhausted the remaining clock.

Chicago Bears 30, New England Patriots 24

The victory strengthens Chicago’s position in the NFC North and demonstrates that Williams’ performance against Atlanta was not simply a successful return from injury. The Bears are finding ways to generate explosive plays while maintaining enough offensive balance to control games, although their defense continues allowing opponents opportunities to remain competitive.

New England falls to 4-3 after three consecutive victories. Maye continued producing impressive numbers, but the Patriots’ offensive-line injuries and inability to consistently contain Chicago’s passing attack proved costly.

Cole Kmet Carted Off With Knee Injury

Chicago’s victory was overshadowed by a concerning injury involving tight end Cole Kmet, who was carted from the field during the fourth quarter. Kmet suffered a right knee injury after making an 8-yard reception, with New England defenders Robert Spillane and Christian Gonzalez converging on the tackle before the tight end immediately grabbed his knee.

The veteran was unable to put weight on his injured leg and required assistance before being transported from the field. Kmet finished with three receptions for 28 yards, but head coach Ben Johnson did not provide a definitive diagnosis following the game and acknowledged that the injury appeared concerning.

Chicago will need additional medical evaluations before determining the severity of the injury or establishing a potential recovery timeline. The situation creates another concern for a Bears offense that has only recently regained Williams, particularly because Kmet provides experience, blocking ability and reliability in the passing game.

Loveland’s touchdown demonstrated that Chicago has another capable tight end, but replacing Kmet’s complete role would require adjustments throughout the offense. The Bears have developed several productive receiving options, although their ability to maintain offensive balance could depend on how effectively they compensate for Kmet if he misses extended time.

Patriots Place Alijah Vera-Tucker on Injured Reserve

New England made a significant roster move before Thursday’s game, placing starting left guard Alijah Vera-Tucker on injured reserve because of a hamstring injury. The decision guarantees that Vera-Tucker will miss at least four games, creating another extended absence along an offensive line already dealing with multiple injuries.

Vera-Tucker started New England’s first six games after signing a three-year contract during the offseason. His arrival was intended to provide stability for an offensive front that struggled with consistency during previous seasons, making his absence particularly inconvenient during the team’s recent offensive improvement.

The Patriots were also without Ben Brown because of a knee injury, forcing Walter Rouse and Matt Pryor into starting assignments against Chicago. New England elevated offensive lineman Xavier Newman-Johnson and linebacker Benton Whitley from its practice squad to provide additional depth, while right tackle Morgan Moses was active despite entering the game with a questionable designation because of a foot injury.

The offensive-line situation will remain an important concern as the Patriots prepare for Week 8. Maye has demonstrated significant improvement during October, but maintaining that production becomes more difficult when the players responsible for protecting him continue changing.

New England also remains without receiver Romeo Doubs, who was placed on injured reserve earlier this week. The combination of offensive-line and receiving injuries will test the Patriots’ depth as they attempt to recover from Thursday’s defeat.

Chiefs Place Josh Simmons on Injured Reserve

Kansas City placed offensive tackle Josh Simmons on injured reserve Thursday, extending the absence of a player the organization had hoped would return during October. Simmons has been dealing with a bulging disc in his lower back since training camp and has not appeared in a game this season.

The second-year tackle recently returned to limited practice, creating optimism that he might be approaching game readiness. However, Chiefs vice president of sports medicine and performance Rick Burkholder explained that Simmons’ recovery had reached a plateau, prompting the organization to determine that additional rehabilitation was necessary rather than continuing to increase his workload.

Simmons will miss at least four more games before becoming eligible to return. Burkholder indicated that surgery is not currently considered necessary, although the team will continue monitoring Simmons’ recovery and evaluating whether additional treatment is required.

Kansas City selected Simmons in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, viewing him as a potential long-term solution at left tackle. The Chiefs have relied on undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson during his absence, and the offensive line has remained productive enough to help Kansas City open the season 5-0.

Simmons’ placement on injured reserve does not force an immediate starting-lineup change because he has not played this season. It does eliminate the possibility of adding an important contributor during the next several weeks, making the development more significant for the team’s depth than its immediate offensive preparation.

Kansas City also continues monitoring receiver Rashee Rice, who did not practice Thursday because of hamstring and knee injuries. Travis Kelce was limited with an ankle issue, while offensive tackle Jaylon Moore remained sidelined because of a concussion.

The Chiefs visit Seattle on Sunday Night Football, with their undefeated record facing another test against an opponent attempting to recover from a difficult stretch. Kansas City has successfully managed injuries throughout its opening five victories, but the availability of several offensive contributors could become increasingly important as the schedule progresses.

Seahawks Activate Zach Charbonnet, Lose Elijah Arroyo for Season

Seattle made two significant roster moves Thursday, activating running back Zach Charbonnet from the physically unable to perform list while placing tight end Elijah Arroyo on injured reserve. The moves provide encouragement at one offensive position while creating another personnel concern elsewhere.

Charbonnet has not played since suffering a torn ACL during Seattle’s January playoff victory over San Francisco. The running back returned to practice October 1 and has spent the past three weeks gradually increasing his workload, with Thursday marking the end of his designated practice window.

Seattle was required to activate Charbonnet or leave him unavailable for the remainder of the season. Head coach Mike Macdonald has not guaranteed that he will play Sunday against Kansas City, but the activation represents an important step toward restoring the Seahawks’ running back depth.

Charbonnet rushed for 730 yards and scored 12 rushing touchdowns last season, providing productive contributions alongside Seattle’s other offensive weapons. His return could help stabilize a rushing attack that has lacked consistency during the opening six weeks.

The corresponding roster move involved Arroyo, who suffered a shoulder injury during last week’s loss to Denver. Arroyo underwent season-ending surgery Thursday, ending his second NFL campaign after six appearances and reducing Seattle’s depth at tight end.

The Seahawks enter Sunday at 3-3 and face an undefeated Kansas City team. Charbonnet’s potential return provides encouragement, although the coaching staff must determine how much responsibility he can handle after an extended rehabilitation.

Rams Receive Another Injury Scare as Puka Nacua Exits Practice

The Los Angeles Rams received another troubling injury development Thursday when receiver Puka Nacua exited practice because of a calf problem. Nacua was listed as a limited participant, and his availability for Sunday’s game against Las Vegas remains uncertain.

The timing is particularly concerning because Los Angeles has already lost Davante Adams for an extended period because of a serious hamstring injury. Adams was placed on injured reserve earlier this week, removing one of Matthew Stafford’s most productive receiving options and placing additional responsibility on Nacua.

The Rams also placed defensive tackle Poona Ford and defensive lineman Kobie Turner on injured reserve, creating significant personnel problems on both sides of the football. Those injuries have left Los Angeles attempting to replace important contributors while struggling to recover from a disappointing 2-4 start.

Nacua has already missed time this season because of hip and groin injuries. Another absence would leave Stafford with a considerably reduced receiving group, forcing the offense to rely more heavily on its remaining receivers and tight ends.

Los Angeles must now monitor Nacua’s condition during Friday’s practice before determining whether he can play Sunday. The Rams have lost several close games, and their offense has struggled to consistently finish possessions, making the potential absence of another established receiver particularly damaging.

Defensively, Los Angeles also listed linebacker Nate Landman and cornerback Trent McDuffie as nonparticipants Thursday. The organization is approaching a point where roster depth could become as important as its original personnel plans, particularly with the trade deadline approaching.

Steelers Cancel Paris Fan Event Amid Security Concerns

Pittsburgh canceled a planned fan gathering in Paris on Thursday as French authorities prepared for additional demonstrations during the weekend. The Steelers were scheduled to host a Steelers House event in the Bastille neighborhood ahead of Sunday’s game against New Orleans, but security concerns prompted the organization and the NFL to cancel the gathering as a precaution.

The decision does not affect Sunday’s game at Stade de France, which remains scheduled for 9:30 AM ET. French authorities have increased security preparations following violent disturbances during the previous weekend, with additional demonstrations expected Saturday.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has emphasized that the league remains in communication with French authorities and United States government officials regarding security arrangements. The Saints arrived in France earlier this week and have been practicing in Versailles, while Pittsburgh was scheduled to arrive Thursday evening.

The cancellation represents a meaningful change from earlier league statements emphasizing that preparations were proceeding normally. The NFL continues expressing confidence that the game can be conducted safely, but eliminating an official fan event demonstrates that the organization is adjusting its plans in response to local conditions.

Sunday’s matchup is the first regular-season NFL game played in France and represents another step in the league’s international expansion. Pittsburgh also faces several personnel concerns, including injuries involving T.J. Watt, Jalen Ramsey and Alex Highsmith.

Receiver Ben Skowronek and cornerback Brandin Echols have already been ruled out, while defensive lineman Sebastian Joseph-Day was placed on injured reserve Thursday because of a triceps injury. The Steelers must manage those absences while preparing for an unusual international game week that has presented challenges beyond normal travel and practice logistics.

Saquon Barkley Returns to Practice as Eagles Prepare for Dallas

Philadelphia received encouraging offensive news Thursday when Saquon Barkley returned to practice on a limited basis. Barkley has missed the Eagles’ previous two games because of a hamstring injury suffered against the Los Angeles Rams earlier this month.

NFL Network reported that the running back is expected to return Monday against Dallas, although Philadelphia has not issued a final game-status designation. The potential return arrives at an important time for an Eagles offense struggling through four consecutive losses.

Philadelphia ranks near the bottom of the league in total offense and rushing production, while quarterback Jalen Hurts remains sidelined because of his serious blood-clot condition. Tanner McKee is expected to continue starting, making the availability of an established running back particularly valuable.

Barkley rushed for 182 yards on 36 carries before suffering his injury. His return could provide Philadelphia with a more reliable rushing threat and reduce the pressure on McKee to generate the majority of the offense.

The Eagles also have additional injury concerns involving DeVonta Smith, Dallas Goedert and several offensive linemen. Philadelphia enters Monday’s NFC East matchup at 2-4, the same record as Dallas, creating a particularly important divisional contest for two teams attempting to reverse disappointing starts.

A victory would provide immediate relief for an organization whose season has deteriorated rapidly, but Barkley’s return alone will not solve every offensive problem. Philadelphia must also improve its protection, establish more consistent drives and find ways to generate production without relying on Hurts’ mobility.

Ravens Continue Evaluating Lamar Jackson’s Ankle

Baltimore quarterback Lamar Jackson participated in limited practice Thursday for the second consecutive day, continuing his recovery from an ankle injury. Jackson has missed the Ravens’ previous two games, with Tyler Huntley starting against Atlanta and Cleveland.

The Ravens went 1-1 during that stretch and enter Sunday’s matchup against Cincinnati at 4-2. Baltimore also received encouraging news regarding center Cam Jurgens, who participated fully after clearing concussion protocol.

Several other offensive linemen improved their participation Thursday, potentially providing additional protection if Jackson returns. Head coach Jesse Minter has not confirmed which quarterback will start Sunday, leaving the Ravens with an important decision as they prepare for another divisional matchup.

Jackson’s continued participation represents progress, but the Ravens must determine whether his ankle can tolerate the movement required of a quarterback whose mobility remains an important part of his effectiveness. Baltimore shares the AFC North lead with Cleveland and Pittsburgh, making Sunday’s game particularly significant.

A healthy Jackson would substantially improve Baltimore’s offensive options, but another setback could create problems extending beyond one game. The organization must balance the importance of Sunday’s matchup against the risk of returning its quarterback before he is physically ready.

Giants Expand Offense for J.J. McCarthy’s First Start

New York Giants offensive coordinator Matt Nagy explained Thursday that J.J. McCarthy’s mobility will allow the organization to restore several offensive concepts that were removed after Jaxson Dart suffered his season-ending knee injury. McCarthy was named New York’s starting quarterback Wednesday after an impressive relief appearance against New Orleans.

The Giants had relied on Jameis Winston during Dart’s absence, but Winston’s different playing style required changes to the original offensive system. Nagy indicated that McCarthy possesses movement skills more comparable to Dart, allowing the coaching staff to use a broader portion of its playbook.

The Giants visit Houston on Sunday, with McCarthy preparing for his first start since joining New York in September. New York also received encouraging offensive-line news Thursday when Andrew Thomas, Jermaine Eluemunor and Marcus Mbow improved to limited participation.

Their availability remains uncertain, but the progress is important for a team preparing to start a young quarterback against an improving Houston defense. The Texans have won consecutive games and are preparing to welcome Tank Dell back from an extended injury absence.

McCarthy’s performance will provide New York with an opportunity to evaluate whether its offense can become more productive without making additional quarterback changes. His mobility could create new opportunities, but the Giants must also establish a manageable offensive approach that does not place unnecessary pressure on a quarterback still learning the system.

Marshall Faulk Reveals Parkinson’s Diagnosis

Pro Football Hall of Fame running back Marshall Faulk revealed that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and has been managing the condition for approximately 18 months. Faulk discussed the diagnosis during an appearance on The Caring Neurologist, a program hosted by Dr. Sandeep Thakkar.

The 53-year-old explained that he initially noticed stiffness in his hand while golfing. When the symptoms persisted, he discussed them with his physician and underwent additional testing.

Faulk indicated that medication has helped manage his symptoms and that he continues maintaining his normal daily activities. The former Indianapolis Colts and St. Louis Rams star is currently coaching at Southern University, where he remains involved in football.

Faulk is one of the most accomplished running backs in NFL history, having helped transform the Rams’ offense during the Greatest Show on Turf era. His announcement provides another reminder that the challenges former players face can extend well beyond their playing careers.

By discussing his diagnosis publicly, Faulk has provided insight into how he is managing the condition while continuing his professional responsibilities. His announcement also brings attention to a neurological disease that affects movement and can require ongoing treatment and lifestyle adjustments.

Week 7 NFL Schedule

Thursday, October 22 — Final

• Chicago Bears 30, New England Patriots 24

Sunday, October 25 — Paris, 9:30 AM ET

• Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New Orleans Saints — NFL Network

Sunday — 1:00 PM ET

• Cincinnati Bengals at Baltimore Ravens
• Cleveland Browns at Tennessee Titans
• Indianapolis Colts at Minnesota Vikings
• Miami Dolphins at New York Jets
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Carolina Panthers
• San Francisco 49ers at Atlanta Falcons
• New York Giants at Houston Texans

Sunday — 4:00 PM ET Window

• Denver Broncos at Arizona Cardinals — 4:05 PM ET
• Los Angeles Rams at Las Vegas Raiders — 4:25 PM ET
• Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions — 4:25 PM ET

Sunday Night Football — 8:20 PM ET

• Kansas City Chiefs at Seattle Seahawks — NBC

Monday Night Football — 8:15 PM ET

• Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles — ESPN

Teams on Bye: Buffalo Bills, Jacksonville Jaguars, Los Angeles Chargers, Washington Commanders

Thursday’s victory gives Chicago another important result in a competitive NFC North, but Kmet’s injury could complicate the Bears’ offensive plans moving forward. Williams is playing some of the best football of his young career, and the organization must now determine whether its available tight ends can maintain the production and versatility Kmet provides.

Kansas City faces a different challenge. The Chiefs have remained undefeated without Simmons, but his placement on injured reserve eliminates the possibility of strengthening their offensive line during the next month. Seattle, meanwhile, has an opportunity to restore an important contributor in Charbonnet while managing the loss of Arroyo.

The Rams face the most immediate personnel crisis. Los Angeles is 2-4, its injury list continues growing, and Sunday’s matchup against Las Vegas presents an opportunity the organization can scarcely afford to waste.

If Nacua cannot play, Stafford will be asked to revive an inconsistent offense without either of his established top receiving options. The Rams must determine whether their remaining personnel can produce enough offense to keep the season competitive or whether more aggressive roster changes will become necessary before the trade deadline.

This report includes information from: NFL.com, Reuters.com, ESPN.com, Associated Press, Patriots.com, Seahawks.com, Chiefs.com, PhiladelphiaEagles.com, CBS Sports, NBC Sports, and official NFL injury, transaction and game reports.