Due to a concussion, receiver Darnell Mooney will not play against the Falcons on Sunday. However, guard Teven Jenkins is anticipated to play after passing the NFL’s concussion protocol on Friday.
Cole Kmet, a tight end, and Lucas Patrick, a centre, both have iffy knees. Linebacker Noah Sewell (knee) and receiver Equanimeous St. Brown (chest) will be eligible following a full week of practice.
Kmet had a restricted session on Friday, but coach Matt Eberflus stated that “everything looks good, so it’s positive.”
For Mooney, this is just another difficult setback. In 15 games, he has only managed 31 receptions for 414 yards and one touchdown. Against the Cardinals, he had two catches for minus-one yard and six yards.
In response to questions regarding the status of contract negotiations and his relationship with the front office, Mooney said Thursday at Halas Hall, “I don’t really focus on those things.” My only concern is winning these games. Who cares about the contract? There is nothing that can be done right now; it is what it is.What I can do, I know. I am aware of my playing style. The movie tells the truth. I have to watch the movie.
Mooney was poised to emerge as one of the NFL’s best young receivers in 2021 after hauling in 81 passes for 1,055 yards and four touchdowns. However, under offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, the Tulane graduate hasn’t been able to consistently find success in the Bears’ passing game.
In 25 games over the last two seasons, Mooney has only caught 67 catches for 888 yards and three touchdowns. Mooney has reached 50 yards in three games this season, and he has only once gone over 80 yards.There appears to be some simmering irritation as a result of Getsy and the Bears’ failure to regularly get him going.
