Bears' Matt Forte, Eddie Royal Out Against Chargers With Knee Injuries
By Chris Emma--
LAKE FOREST, Ill. (CBS) -- Bears coach John Fox made it official: Matt Forte and Eddie Royal have been ruled out for Monday's game in San Diego.
In Forte's place, rookie running back Jeremy Langford will get the start. Langford, the fourth-round pick out of Michigan State, has never started an NFL game.
"I'm more anxious than anything," Langford said of his opportunity.
In his first season, Langford has recorded 27 rushes for 80 yards and two touchdowns. When Forte was injured during the third quarter of the Bears' 23-20 loss to the Vikings, Langford stepped in for 46 yards on 12 carries.
Throughout the week of preparation, the Bears have expressed their confidence in Langford taking on the running back role.
"There's only one Matt Forte in the NFL, but we don't think we lose any slack when Jeremy is in the game," tight end Martellus Bennett said.
Additionally, the Bears have listed linebackers Shea McClellin and Pernell McPhee as questionable, center Hroniss Grasu as doubtful and receiver Cameron Meredith and linebacker LaRoy Reynolds as probable to play.
With Grasu's status unlikely due to a neck injury, left guard Matt Slauson is expected to make the start at center for the second consecutive game.
McPhee has been listed on the Bears' injury report for much of this season, though he has yet to miss a game. That's largely a precaution to keep his knee fresh.
"The knee has been bothersome," Fox said. "We're trying to get him ready for the game.
Fox also confirmed that cornerback Bryce Callahan cleared the NFL's concussion protocol, making him eligible to return to the nickel back position.
The Bears (2-5) and Chargers (2-6) kick off at 7:30 p.m. CT on Monday in San Diego.
Follow Chris on Twitter @CEmma670.