Bears News: Roquan Smith, Darnell Mooney among key inactives vs. Saints

Smith is a key player on the Bears' defense (Quinn Harris - USA Today Sports)

Tony Crumpton - Senior Editor - Sunday, January 10 2021

The Chicago Bears (8-8) announced their inactive list for today's playoff matchup against the New Orleans Saints (12-4).

The inactive players for the Bears include cornerback Buster Skrine, cornerback Jaylon Johnson, linebacker Roquan Smith, receiver Darnell Mooney, offensive lineman Lachavious Simmons, nose tackle Daniel McCullers, and linebacker Trevis Gipson.

Tough news that standout players Smith (elbow) and Mooney (ankle) will be out as they are both battling injuries. Anthony Miller will likely get more reps to offset the loss of speedster Mooney.

Regarding Smith's absence, veteran linebacker Manti Te'o and Josh Woods are options at linebacker.

Johnson is missing his fourth consecutive game with a shoulder injury he suffered against the Texans on Dec. 13.

Fifth-rounder Kindle Vildor will replace him.

Saints' pass rusher Trey Hendrickson was ruled out with a neck injury on Friday.