The atmosphere at Soldier Field is electric, the temperatures are freezing, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. It is the NFC Divisional Round, and the Chicago Bears are set to clash with the Los Angeles Rams in a game that promises to be a gridiron classic. As kickoff approaches, the most anticipated piece of news has finally dropped: the official inactives list. For fans frantically searching “DJ Moore”—a term that has trended with over 5,000 searches today—the news is a massive sigh of relief. The star wide receiver is officially active and ready to help rookie quarterback Caleb Williams chase a spot in the NFC Championship Game.

This matchup has all the makings of a legendary encounter, with the intensity of an Olympics final and the strategic depth of a chess match. According to NBC 5 Chicago, the Bears have finalized their roster decisions, navigating a tricky week of injury reports to field the best possible lineup against a high-powered Rams offense. With the wind chill dropping and the crowd roaring like the supporters at a European soccer derby, the stage is set for a monumental battle in the Windy City.

DJ Moore and Rome Odunze: The Green Light

The biggest headline leading into this game was undoubtedly the status of the Bears’ receiving corps. According to NBC Sports, DJ Moore, who had been battling a knee injury, has been cleared to play. This is a game-changer for Chicago. Moore’s ability to stretch the field and make contested catches is vital for the Bears’ offensive scheme. His presence forces the defense to adjust, much like an NBA team shifting its zone to contain a superstar scorer. Alongside him, rookie sensation Rome Odunze is also active despite a lingering foot issue, giving Caleb Williams his full arsenal of weapons.

The enthusiasm in Chicago is palpable. Having both top receivers available means the Bears can execute their full playbook. Moore’s resilience has been a talking point all week, and his clearance to play is a testament to his toughness. According to Bears Wire, Moore was a limited participant in practice earlier in the week, but he showed enough progress to avoid the inactive designation, ensuring that the Bears’ passing attack remains as potent as a tennis ace serving for the match.

Chicago Bears Inactives List

While the news on Moore is positive, the Bears are not without significant absences. According to NBC Sports, the official inactives list for the Chicago Bears includes several notable names. Starting left tackle Braxton Jones is inactive, a blow to the offensive line that will require shuffling in the trenches. Joining him on the sidelines are defensive end Joe Tryon-Shoyinka and cornerback Nick McCloud. The absence of Tryon-Shoyinka removes a key pass-rushing rotation piece, putting more pressure on the starters to generate heat on Matthew Stafford.

Rounding out the Bears’ inactives are linebacker Ruben Hyppolite, wide receiver Jahdae Walker, and quarterback Case Keenum, who serves as the emergency third quarterback. The loss of depth is always a concern in the playoffs, but the headline remains the availability of the stars. The Bears’ coaching staff has had to make tough decisions, balancing health and tactical needs in a way that rivals the roster management seen in international football tournaments.

Los Angeles Rams Inactives List

On the visiting sideline, the Los Angeles Rams have also released their list of players who will not suit up. According to NBC Sports, the Rams will be without wide receiver Tutu Atwell, whose speed is often a wildcard for their offense. His absence simplifies the defensive assignment slightly for the Bears’ secondary, though the Rams still boast plenty of firepower. Running back Jarquez Hunter and cornerback Derion Kendrick are also inactive, testing the Rams’ depth at key positions.

Additionally, safety Tanner Ingle, tight end Nick Vannett, and offensive lineman D.J. Humphries have been ruled out. Quarterback Stetson Bennett is listed as the emergency quarterback. The Rams, known for their “next man up” mentality, will need their reserves to perform with the precision of elite athletes. The tactical battle between the Rams’ offense and the Bears’ defense will be fascinating to watch, with every snap carrying the weight of the season.

The Stakes of the Divisional Round

This game is more than just a contest; it is a gateway to history. The winner advances to the NFC Championship, one step closer to the Super Bowl. For the Bears, overcoming injuries to key linemen while retaining their offensive stars is a huge boost. The narrative of Caleb Williams leading this team in his rookie season adds a layer of drama worthy of the best sports stories. The Rams, led by the veteran Matthew Stafford, bring experience and a high-octane offense that can score in bunches.

As the teams take the field, the cold Chicago air will test their endurance and mental fortitude. It is a true test of will, similar to the grueling nature of a five-set tennis match or the final minutes of a soccer extra time. The inactives list has set the parameters, but the players on the field will decide the outcome. With DJ Moore active, the Bears have their playmaker, and the fans have their hope.

Conclusion

The release of the inactives list has set the stage for a thrilling NFC Divisional Round showdown. With DJ Moore and Rome Odunze active, the Chicago Bears have their primary weapons ready to challenge the Los Angeles Rams. While the absence of Braxton Jones is a hurdle, the energy at Soldier Field is undeniable. As the NFL playoffs continue to deliver high-octane drama, all eyes are on Chicago to see if they can capitalize on their roster news and secure a victory. The road to the championship is paved with challenges, but for now, the Bears are as ready as they can be.

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