(670 The Score) The Bears on Saturday ruled out linebacker Roquan Smith (elbow) and receiver Darnell Mooney (ankle) for their matchup against the Saints on Sunday afternoon in the wild-card round.
Each player had previously been listed as questionable, though there wasn’t much expectation that they’d play after they didn’t practice during the week. Smith and Mooney each suffered their injuries in Chicago’s loss to Green Bay last Sunday, exiting the game and not returning.
In corresponding moves, the Bears activated linebacker Manti Te’o and safety Marqui Christian from their practice squad. The Bears could turn to reserve linebacker Josh Woods or Te’o to replace Smith. Woods is dealing with a toe/glute injury himself.
Smith had 98 solo tackles and 139 combined tackles in 16 games this season. Mooney hauled in 61 catches for 631 yards and four touchdowns.
The Bears (8-8) and Saints (12-4) kick off at 3:40 p.m. CT Sunday in New Orleans.