JUST IN: Matt Eberflus confirms two veteran players added to the injury list.

The Chicago Bears are preparing for their Week 2 matchup against the Houston Texans on Sunday Night Football, but they might be without two key receivers, Keenan Allen and Rome Odunze. Allen, who has been dealing with a recurring heel injury since training camp, was forced to exit last week’s game. This same injury sidelined him for the final four weeks of last season, and after missing practice all week, it seems the Bears are giving him time to rest.

Odunze, the Bears’ ninth overall draft pick, sustained an MCL sprain late in his debut game while blocking. Although the MRI results were not as severe as initially feared, his availability depends on pain tolerance. He was limited in practice on Friday, suggesting a chance he could play, but the Bears might be cautious with him. One of the two receivers is likely to sit out, with Allen being the more probable candidate. In their absence, DeAndre Carter and Velus Jones Jr. are expected to see more playing time, with Jones being used in both wide receiver and running back roles.

Without Allen or Odunze, Chicago’s offense could become easier for the Texans to defend. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams struggled in Week 1, throwing for only 93 yards and rushing for 15. He’ll need at least one of his top receivers to play to help open up the offense. Otherwise, Houston’s defense, led by Derek Stingley, could dominate, especially with Stingley expected to cover DJ Moore if both Allen and Odunze are out.

Keenan Allen, Rome Odunze

The Bears might turn to their run game, especially after the Texans allowed over 100 combined rushing yards last week. D’Andre Swift, despite a modest stat line, showed promise and could be more involved. Tight end Cole Kmet, who caught 73 passes for 713 yards and six touchdowns last season, might also take on a larger role to help Williams find his rhythm early.

Chicago has also elevated wide receiver Collin Johnson from the practice squad, but the Bears offense looked shaky in Week 1. They’ll face a Texans team that put up over 400 yards of offense and controlled time of possession in their opening game. It’s a tough challenge for the Bears, as reflected in their +6.5 point spread.