Bears injury report: McManis out, a full strength Chicago otherwise

It’s often said one of the best abilities a player can have is availability. A football player can be as talented, instinctive, and physically gifted as he wants, but if he can’t stay on the field, then all of that skill is for naught. Apply this general principle to an entire team of special world-class talents at the peaks of their game, and worthwhile discussions of contention are worth bringing up.

In advance of an important matchup on Monday Night Football against the Rams, the Bears have as clean a bill of health as a team could hope for. While there are assuredly minor ailments players across the roster are dealing with — like any squad near the halfway point of a season — Saturday’s final injury report reflects a healthy team with no major injuries derailing their foundation. An unheard of prospect in a sport as violent and as punishing as professional football.

The only Bears’ injury of note is that of special teams stalwart, Sherrick McManis. The long-time third phase captain has been plagued by a nagging hamstring the entire season. With no considerable progress, the veteran has been ruled out of Monday night’s tilt in Los Angeles.

Aside from McManis, Chicago is healthy and raring to go. Veterans like Khalil Mack, Akiem Hicks, Eddie Jackson, and Danny Trevathan were all full participants on Saturday afternoon. The only knock to monitor is Buster Skrine’s ankle, as the starting nickel cornerback was limited and is officially listed as questionable against the Rams. However, the Bears don’t appear to be too concerned with the cornerback’s health. It would be a surprise if the 31-year-old was not able to suit up on Monday night.

Here’s the Rams’ final injury ledger.

Questionable:

Tyler Higbee, TE

Darrell Henderson, RB

Robert Woods, WR