Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Terell Smith suffered a serious non-contact knee injury during a 2025 preseason game against the Bills.
- The injury occurred while defending a wide receiver and attempting to make a cut, resulting in immediate medical evacuation.
- This injury adds to the Bears’ preseason challenges, already impacted by injuries to other key defensive players.
- Smith’s current diagnosis suggests a serious injury that could sideline him for an extended period.
- The Bears’ coaching staff will need to adjust their defensive lineup and strategies in his absence.
Table of Contents
Incident and Immediate Aftermath
The Incident and Immediate Aftermath
The Chicago Bears’ cornerback Terell Smith suffered a serious non-contact knee injury during their 2025 preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, forcing him to be carted off the field and ruled out for the remainder of the match[1][2][5]. This alarming injury occurred as Smith was defending wide receiver Kristian Wilkerson and attempting to make a cut, at which point it appeared the ground gave way beneath his left leg, causing immediate distress and necessitating medical evacuation via cart[2][3].
Injury Impact and Context
Smith’s injury unfolded late in the second quarter while the Bears held a commanding 28-0 lead. Despite the decisive team advantage, the mood shifted dramatically when Smith collapsed without contact, clutching his left knee. His teammates gathered around, showing visible concern before Smith was covered with a towel and escorted to the locker room on a cart[1][3]. Commentators and journalists characterized the scene as “brutal,” highlighting the severity and suddenness of the injury[3].
This injury compounds a challenging preseason for the Bears, already dealing with injuries to key defensive players like cornerback Jaylon Johnson and defensive lineman Shemar Turner[0]. Smith, a third-year player who has contributed on defense and special teams over 26 games, had been actively participating in this game before the injury, recording two tackles[2]. Previous concerns about Smith’s groin injury earlier in the preseason had already limited his playtime[4].
The exact diagnosis and prognosis for Smith’s knee have yet to be released, but early indications from the Bears’ medical team suggest it is serious enough to keep him out for an extended period[0]. Such injuries in cornerbacks often affect mobility and require careful rehabilitation, potentially impacting the Bears’ defensive backfield depth significantly.
What This Means for the Bears
Head Coach Ben Johnson faces immediate challenges managing a defense now missing multiple starters as the regular NFL season approaches. Smith’s absence may necessitate adjustments to the secondary’s lineup and potentially boost opportunities for backups and younger players to step up[1]. The Bears will also need to focus on Smith’s recovery timeline when planning their defensive strategies for coming weeks.
Fans and Analysts React
Coverage on social media and sports networks has been filled with well-wishes for Smith’s recovery and concern over the impact on the team’s defense. ESPN and Chicago-based media have prioritized reporting on the injury, reflecting the significant attention this setback has drawn within the Chicago sports community[0][1][2]
FAQ
What is the nature of Terell Smith’s injury?
He suffered a non-contact knee injury during a preseason game, which required him to be carted off the field. The exact diagnosis is pending, but early reports suggest it is serious enough to sideline him for an extended period.
How might this injury affect the Bears’ defense?
Smith’s absence could lead to changes in the secondary lineup and provide opportunities for backups. It may also impact the team’s overall mobility and defensive strategies in upcoming weeks.