Divisional Round injury report for Rams vs Bears: starters?

January 16, 2026

Divisional Round injury report for Rams vs Bears drops as the teams head to Soldier Field this Sunday at 3:30 p.m. PT on NBC/Peacock. This report matters because each roster note could shift matchups and playoff outcomes. We break down who practices, who is questionable, and who is ruled out.

Kevin Dotson carries no game status and is expected to start at left guard, which boosts the offensive line. Terrance Ferguson, Josh Wallace, and Jordan Whittington also carry no designation and are cleared to play. Jimmy Garoppolo is listed as questionable with back tightness; however, he is expected to play. Desjuan Johnson is questionable due to illness but remains on track to suit up.

On the Bears side, nickel corner Nick McCloud is ruled out with a groin injury. Rome Odunze and Jalen Reeves-Maybin sit as questionable, and their availability bears watching. Sean McVay noted that Dotson’s return matters to team energy and depth. Therefore, the Rams enter Soldier Field with optimism and crucial depth at key spots. As a result, this Divisional Round injury report for Rams vs Bears is a must read. Tune in at 3:30 p.m. PT to see how these designations shape the playoff picture.

Soldier Field cold-weather game atmosphere

Divisional Round Injury Report for Rams vs Bears

As the Los Angeles Rams prepare to face the Chicago Bears in the Divisional Round, the team’s injury report offers a cautiously optimistic view. Here’s a breakdown of the Rams players’ statuses:

  • Kevin Dotson: Set to start with no game status designation, crucial for enhancing the offensive line’s protection and run-blocking capabilities.
  • Terrance Ferguson, Josh Wallace, and Jordan Whittington: All cleared to play with no game status designation, reinforcing the Rams’ depth in key positions.
  • Jimmy Garoppolo: Listed as questionable due to back tightness, but the expectation is for him to take the field, offering the team his veteran leadership in a critical playoff game.
  • Desjuan Johnson: Questionable due to illness but expected to contribute on the line, where his presence boosts defensive rotations.

Head coach Sean McVay stated, “It means a lot to have [Dotson] back. There’s a lot of confidence in the depth we’re bringing into the game.” This underscores the Rams’ strategic depth and resilience.

For more insights on Kevin Dotson’s return, you can explore Kevin Dotson return-to-practice ahead of divisional round vs Bears.

This pivotal game is even more exciting given the Rams’ tactics for overcoming potential cold conditions at Soldier Field, with additional details available on cold-weather divisional-round Rams vs Bears. Fans can catch the game live on NBC/Peacock, ensuring no moment is missed.

With strong preparation and determination, the Rams look to endure both the opposition and the weather. Keep informed on how to witness the showdown by checking Rams at Bears divisional round: watch, listen, live.

PlayerTeamPositionInjuryGame Status
Kevin DotsonRamsLeft guardNot listed (expected to start)Active
Terrance FergusonRamsDefensive backNot listedActive
Josh WallaceRamsDefensive backNot listedActive
Jordan WhittingtonRamsDefensive backNot listedActive
Jimmy GaroppoloRamsQuarterbackBack tightnessQuestionable
Desjuan JohnsonRamsDefensive linemanIllnessQuestionable
Nick McCloudBearsNickel cornerbackGroinRuled out
Rome OdunzeBearsWide receiverFootQuestionable
Jalen Reeves-MaybinBearsLinebackerBackQuestionable

Divisional Round injury report for Rams vs Bears: Bears injury update and impact

The Chicago Bears enter Soldier Field with a few key question marks. Coach staff listed nickel cornerback Nick McCloud as ruled out. Meanwhile Rome Odunze and Jalen Reeves-Maybin are questionable. This trio shapes Chicago’s defensive and offensive game plans.

Nick McCloud ruled out immediately affects the Bears’ slot coverage. As a result, Chicago may shift heavier nickel duties to backups. Therefore the Rams could target mismatches in the short passing game.

Rome Odunze listed questionable with a foot issue reduces depth at wide receiver. If Odunze misses, the Bears may lean on outside routes and run-heavy sets to compensate. Consequently, play-action and short yards packages could become more frequent.

Jalen Reeves-Maybin’s questionable status with a back concern matters for linebacker rotations. If he sits, the Bears will use more sub-package linebackers on passing downs. This change could open lanes for Rams running plays and create favorable matchups for tight ends in space.

Overall the Bears’ injury report forces schematic adjustments. However the team can still pressure and mix coverages, so the Rams must stay adaptable. In cold conditions at Soldier Field, ball security and short passes gain extra importance. Therefore injuries on Chicago’s depth chart increase the strategic value of Rams’ offensive line and quick-play designs. Expect chess-like adjustments from both staffs as availability becomes clear.

This Divisional Round injury report for Rams vs Bears highlights crucial roster news heading into Soldier Field. Kevin Dotson looks ready to start, while Terrance Ferguson, Josh Wallace, and Jordan Whittington are cleared to play. Jimmy Garoppolo and Desjuan Johnson carry questionable tags, however both are expected to contribute. On Chicago’s side, Nick McCloud is ruled out, and Rome Odunze and Jalen Reeves-Maybin remain questionable.

Because availability will shape play calling, depth takes on extra importance. Sean McVay emphasized how Dotson’s return lifts energy and helps the line. Therefore the Rams have a clearer plan for run and pass protection. Meanwhile the Bears must adjust slot coverage and receiver options if key players miss the game. As a result, short passing and ball security become vital in cold conditions.

In short, this matchup is set to be strategic and competitive. Fans should watch closely at 3:30 p.m. PT on NBC/Peacock to see how these statuses affect outcomes. For more coverage, this story comes from Rams News LLC. Visit Rams News and follow on Twitter at Zach Gatsby for updates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is starting for the Rams in the Divisional Round against the Bears?

Kevin Dotson is expected to start at left guard, strengthening the offensive line.

When and where is the Rams vs Bears game?

Sunday at Soldier Field, kickoff 3:30 p.m. PT.

Where can I watch the Rams vs Bears game live?

The game airs on NBC and streams on Peacock.

What are the key injury concerns for the Bears?

Nick McCloud is ruled out; Rome Odunze and Jalen Reeves-Maybin are questionable.

How will injuries affect game strategy?

Expect adjusted coverages, more short passing, and an emphasis on ball security.

How can I stream the game on Peacock and what access do I need?

Peacock carries the NBC broadcast; verify your Peacock subscription or use a TV provider login for live NBC access. For out of market viewing, check regional blackout rules or authenticated streaming options.

How could Soldier Field weather affect play and viewing?

Cold temperatures, wind, or snow can favor running and short passes, complicate kicks and punts, and increase ball security issues. For fans plan for layers, arrive early, and expect potential weather delays.