Bears' Alshon Jeffery, Matt Forte Out; Pernell McPhee Active
By Chris Emma--
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Bears running back Matt Forte and receiver Alshon Jeffery are listed as inactive and will miss Sunday's game with the Broncos, while linebacker Pernell McPhee will play.
Jeffery was ruled out with a groin injury, having missed the Bears' last two practices of the week. Last Sunday, Jeffery played through the injury, recording three catches for 23 yards.
Prior to the game, Forte was on the field testing his knee. He suffered an MCL sprain three weeks ago in the Bears' loss to the Vikings at Soldier Field. Rookie running back Jeremy Langford will likely start in Forte's place.
This week, Forte spoke of the unforgiving situation he's currently in, hampered by this injury.
"The NFL is what have you done for me lately," Forte said Thursday. "It's whatever is done next. I've obviously been out for a few games, and (Langford has) done his job, done well stepping in for me. Everybody is looking for the next-best thing.
"Obviously, with the situation being me in my contract year, my last year (of the contract), it's obvious that's the storyline that will come up. Chicago is kind of like that: 'Well, see you later, Matt!' I'm like, 'Man, I've been here eight years — you're just going to throw me to the side like that?' But that's the nature of the NFL."
Good news for the Bears on the injury front comes in the form of McPhee, who will play despite an ongoing knee ailment. McPhee has played through the pain much of this season but didn't travel to St. Louis for Chicago's win last week.
McPhee said he would be a game-time decision, adding in the influence of Bears coach John Fox and team doctors. However, he will play this game.
The Bears' full inactives list also includes Eddie Royal, Antrel Rolle, Jacoby Glenn, Nick Becton and Ziggy Hood.
Kickoff at Soldier Field is set for noon, with the Bears looking to beat coach John Fox's former team, the Broncos.