Bears

Hall of Famer and ESPN broadcaster Troy Aikman had some criticism about the Bears and QB Caleb Williams in Monday Night’s 25-24 win over the Commanders. When asked about Aikman’s comments, HC Ben Johnson responded that any way they can win is fine with him.

“It sounded like from that game the other night, a few people weren’t particular pleased with how we’re winning right now,” Johnson said, via BearsWire. “I woke up this morning and my kids were watching the second half before school so I heard some of the commentary. But, listen, in this league any way you can find a way to win.”

Johnson added that he didn’t pay attention to Aikman and wants Chicago to continue earning respect around the league.

“Maybe I just had it on mute,” Johnson said. “Listen, you want respect in this league, you got to go earn it. So, that’s where we are at right now. We need to go earn that respect from not only the rest of the teams in the NFL but everybody, so that’s where we are.”

• Bears HC Ben Johnson feels they still haven’t played their best up to this point: “We have yet to play our best football and what we’re capable of doing. … I do think we’re getting better at certain aspects, but we’re still in a race to get as good as we can be for December.” (Kevin Fishbain)
• Chicago officially ruled out K Cairo Santos (thigh) and LB Noah Sewell (concussion) from Week 7.

Lions

Lions DT Alim McNeill said he is feeling “100%” and fully expects to play this weekend.

• Lions HC Dan Campbell said that McNeill is “freaking” playing this week, “barring something happening this week.” (Eric Woodyard)

Vikings

Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy suffered a high ankle sprain in Week 2 after missing his entire rookie year with a knee injury. McCarthy has been frustrated by the frequency of his health issues, but is working to get back on the field.

“It’s unfortunate and one of those really annoying injuries,” McCarthy said, via Dave Campbell of 10WBNS. “But I’m just continuing to work to get to 100% as fast as possible.”

Vikings HC Kevin O’Connell just wants to get McCarthy live reps in a game setting.

“I think the biggest thing is just getting him back in uniform on grass, getting real live reps of pass rush and taking drops and applying some of the things that he’s worked really hard on,” O’Connell said. “I’m having a blast coaching him.”

McCarthy has been digesting information from O’Connell and QBs coach Josh McCown as he recovers.

“Everyone in this position and at other positions and in other professions, they’re always working on perfecting that part of their craft, the fundamentals, the basics,” McCarthy said. “So it was just awesome to get back on the field and spin it but get that wisdom and advice from those guys.”

• Vikings OC Wes Phillips has...