Soldier Field fell silent on Sunday when one of the Bears’ more promising young stars went down — a sight that immediately drew concern from teammates and coaches alike. Moments later, the worst was confirmed: the Chicago Bears announced that rookie defensive lineman Shemar Turner has suffered a torn ACL, officially ending his first NFL season. (NBC Sports)
🩺 Injury & Rehab Outlook For Bears’ Shemar Turner
Aug 22, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson on field against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second half of the game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Aug 22, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson on field against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second half of the game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
Head coach Ben Johnson confirmed that Turner will undergo surgery in the coming days and begin a full rehabilitation program. According to Marquee Sports Network, the team has already moved Turner to injured reserve and promoted defensive end Austin Booker to the active roster.
The standard recovery timeline for ACL reconstruction suggests a 9- to 12-month process, putting Turner on track to return during the 2026 offseason if his rehab proceeds smoothly.
📊 Rookie Season Snapshot
Before the injury, Turner was gradually earning more playing time as part of Chicago’s defensive line rotation.
Games played: 5
Total tackles: 6 (2 for loss)
Defensive snaps: 74
(CBS Sports)
Turner, a 2025 second-round pick out of Texas A&M, had impressed coaches with his burst and power inside. His development was viewed as a key part of the Bears’ rebuilding defense before the injury halted his momentum.
🧩 What It Means for Chicago
Oct 19, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Shemar Turner (95) reacts against the New Orleans Saints during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images
Oct 19, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Shemar Turner (95) reacts against the New Orleans Saints during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images
The Bears lose one of their most intriguing rookie defenders at a time when the defensive line was beginning to show cohesion. Turner’s absence forces Chicago to rely more heavily on veteran depth and late-round rookies. Still, the coaching staff remains optimistic about his long-term outlook, emphasizing patience and full recovery over a rushed return.
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