The Bears are heading into their NFC Divisional Round clash with the Rams in better shape than many expected - and their latest injury report only reinforces that optimistic outlook.
Let’s start with the biggest takeaway: outside of cornerback Nick McCloud, who missed his second straight practice with a groin injury, Chicago is looking relatively healthy. Two straight DNPs usually isn’t a great sign this late in the week, so it’s safe to assume McCloud is trending toward being inactive for this one.
That could open the door for Jaylon Jones to step up as the third-string nickel corner, assuming he’s elevated for game day. With Kyler Gordon and C.J.
Gardner-Johnson already rotating in the slot, the Bears still have solid depth at the position, even if McCloud can’t go.
The more encouraging update comes at linebacker. Jalen Reeves-Maybin, who was limited earlier in the week with a back issue, was upgraded to a full participant.
That’s a big boost for a unit already dealing with the absence of T.J. Edwards.
Reeves-Maybin brings versatility and experience, and if he’s cleared, he could play a key role either on defense or special teams.
Here’s the full injury report from Wednesday’s practice:
1/15/2026 Bears Injury Report:
- Nick McCloud, CB (Groin) - Did Not Practice
- DJ Moore, WR (Knee) - Limited
- Rome Odunze, WR (Foot) - Limited
- Jalen Reeves-Maybin, LB (Back) - Full
- **C.J.
Gardner-Johnson, CB (Concussion)** - Full
- Braxton Jones, OT (Knee) - Full
- Amen Ogbongbemiga, LB (Concussion) - Full
- Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, DL (Concussion) - Full
That’s a lot of "full" participation - and for a playoff team, that’s exactly what you want to see.
Let’s talk about the wide receiver room. DJ Moore and rookie Rome Odunze are both still limited, but they’ve been practicing - and that’s key.
This mirrors last week’s situation, and both suited up then. Barring any setbacks, they’re on track to play, which is huge for an offense that relies heavily on Moore’s explosiveness and Odunze’s physicality in contested catch situations.
On the offensive line, Braxton Jones being a full participant is a timely development. With Ozzy Trapilo out for the postseason, Jones getting healthy now could be critical. Theo Benedet is the likely next man up if needed, but having Jones back in the mix gives the Bears more flexibility up front.
Defensively, the Bears are compensating well for the loss of Edwards. D’Marco Jackson, though still on the injury report, is expected to slot into the starting lineup. Meanwhile, Amen Ogbongbemiga and Reeves-Maybin are both healthy and could rotate in or contribute on special teams - both areas where depth matters in January football.
And let’s not overlook the return of C.J. Gardner-Johnson and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka from concussion protocol. Both were full participants, and both bring playoff experience and a level of intensity that could be crucial against a Rams team that thrives on rhythm and timing.
Bottom line: the Bears are getting healthy at the right time. Outside of a few key injuries they’ve already accounted for, this is a roster that looks ready to compete. The Rams will bring their own challenges, but from a health standpoint, Chicago is in a strong position heading into the weekend.