The Bears’ chances of pulling a first-round playoff upset against the Saints will be even slimmer if they’re missing two of their best players. Linebacker Roquan Smith and wide receiver Darnell Mooney both exited the 35-16 loss to the Packers on Sunday with major injuries and did not return.
Smith, who had one of the best statistical seasons by a defender in the NFL this season, hurt his elbow in the first quarter and quickly went to the locker room. He reemerged and tested it out with some drills on the sideline, but was unable to play through it.
“I don’t know the extent yet of Roquan; You guys will probably end up knowing more here, and I will too, [Monday or Tuesday]” coach Matt Nagy said. “He’s a tough son of a buck, now.”
Mooney led the team with a season-high 93 yards on 11 catches before Packers safety Adrian Amos’ hit knocked him out of the game with an ankle injury with 12 minutes left. Mooney caught a quick pass from Mitch Trubisky and shook three would-be tacklers before Amos got him.
The Bears immediately ruled Mooney out for the rest of the game, suggesting it was a severe injury. Nagy was not asked about it after the game.
Mooney, a fifth-round pick, has been an exceptional asset to the Bears in his rookie season. He is third on the team in total yardage with 651 receiving and 20 rushing and second in catches at 61.
