Injury Update: Bookend tackles expected to start for Bears

Chicago Bears starting defensive tackles Akiem Hicks and Justin Jones are expected to start this week against the Minnesota Vikings.

The Bears defense has struggled to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks this season, ranking near the bottom of the league in sacks. Hicks and Jones are both veteran players who have a history of being disruptive in the pass rush, so their return to the lineup could be a big boost for the Bears.

Hicks missed the Bears' last game with a groin injury, while Jones has been dealing with a calf injury.

Both players practiced in full this week and are expected to be ready to go on Sunday. Their return will be a welcome sight for Bears fans, who have seen their team struggle to stop the run and get to the quarterback this season.

The Bears defense will need to be at their best this week against the Vikings, who have one of the most potent offenses in the NFL.

Led by quarterback Kirk Cousins and running back Dalvin Cook, the Vikings are averaging over 30 points per game this season. The Bears will need to get pressure on Cousins and stop Cook in order to have a chance at winning the game.