What to make of Bears absences & injuries before the final preseason weekend

The Chicago Bears’ final roster decisions for this weekend’s last preseason game hinge on the participation of several players after Wednesday’s shorter workout at Halas Hall. Luther Burden III returned for the walk-through on Wednesday but did not take part in team drills, aligning him for a potential return by the Sept. 13 season opener. Right tackle Darnell Wright was on hand and worked with the offensive line despite leaving Tuesday’s practice favoring his right arm; his status will be tested at Thursday’s joint practice against the Titans, with first-team reps indicating readiness for Week 1. On the defensive side, Gervon Dexter Sr. and Austin Booker were absent after Dexter left Tuesday and Booker missed Tuesday entirely. If neither practices Thursday, they’re unlikely to play Saturday. The situation could affect right tackle reps for Theo Benedet and defensive rotation work for Dayo Odeyingbo and rookie Jordan van den Berg.