“He Can’t Go” Bears Lose Starter For Divisional Round Matchup Vs Rams (Breaking News)

The Chicago Bears have suffered a notable defensive blow ahead of their NFC Divisional Round matchup against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, January 18, 2026. Starting slot cornerback Nick McCloud has been officially ruled out due to a groin injury, per the team’s final injury report and CBS Sports/RotoWire update on January 16, 2026.

NFL News: Bears’ Nick McCloud Ruled Out for Divisional Round vs. Rams – Groin Injury Sidelines Slot Corner

McCloud played a key rotational role in the Bears’ secondary this season. He appeared in 15 regular-season games (including limited snaps in the wild-card win over the Green Bay Packers), contributing in nickel packages and providing depth at the position.

His absence removes a reliable veteran option for slot coverage, forcing the Bears to lean on backups in what could be a high-scoring affair against Matthew Stafford and the Rams’ explosive offense.

Injury Timeline and Impact on Bears’ Defense

McCloud has been dealing with the groin issue since at least the wild-card round, where he played only 20 defensive snaps in Chicago’s comeback victory over the Packers. He was listed as a non-participant (DNP) on every injury report this week:

• Wednesday (walkthrough): DNP (groin) – Estimated.
• Thursday (first full practice): DNP (groin).
• Friday (final report): Out – Confirmed no practice participation and ruled out for Sunday.

Head coach Ben Johnson has not commented extensively, but the Bears’ secondary will now turn to C.J. Gardner-Johnson (who cleared concussion protocol and practiced fully) and Josh Blackwell as the primary slot options.

Jaylon Jones could see elevated snaps as a third-string nickel if needed. The unit remains strong overall—Chicago ranks top-10 in passer rating allowed—but losing McCloud’s experience could be felt against Puka Nacua, Cooper Kupp, and the Rams’ quick-pass attack.

Matchup Implications for Bears vs. Rams

The Bears (11-6) host the Rams (12-5) at Soldier Field in a primetime showdown (6:30 p.m. ET, NBC/Peacock). Chicago enters with momentum from a dramatic 31-27 wild-card win over Green Bay, but the Rams boast the NFL’s No. 1 offense (30.5 PPG). McCloud’s absence means more snaps for Gardner-Johnson and Blackwell in the slot, potentially exposing mismatches against Rams’ speedy receivers.

Other Bears injury notes remain encouraging:

• WRs DJ Moore (knee) and Rome Odunze (foot) were limited but expected to play.
• S C.J. Gardner-Johnson (concussion) full participant.
• No major new concerns for QB Caleb Williams or the offensive line.

The Rams have their own health questions, but Chicago’s secondary depth takes a hit without McCloud. Analysts like those at Bear Wire and Windy City Gridiron note the groin injury likely kept him sidelined all week, with no realistic chance of suiting up.

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