DJ Moore draws attention after late overtime mistake and reported absence from locker room following Bears’ playoff exit | NFL News
The Chicago Bears’ promising postseason run came to a sudden and tragic end Sunday night, and the final moments left a lot to be desired for the team due to crucial mistakes. A 20-17 overtime loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the divisional round shifted the focus from what the Bears accomplished this season to how it ended. Much focus was given to wide receiver DJ Moore, whose role in a crucial overtime miscue infamously drew attention across the league. Adding to the tension, Moore was reportedly not present in the locker room when media interviews began. For a team that leaned heavily on accountability and chemistry throughout its NFC North title run, it was a moment that Bears fans want to forget.
A single play overshadows a strong season and raises questions about accountability
The decisive play came on second and eight in overtime, with Caleb Williams releasing a pass that was picked off by Rams safety Kam Curl, setting up the drive that sealed Chicago’s elimination. The issue appeared to stem from a big miscommunication as Moore ran a vertical route, while Williams expected him to flatten underneath the safety. After the game, Williams addressed the moment directly. He said, “I’ve got to go back and watch it, obviously haven’t seen it. … Had D.J. going over the top over all of it. Just a miscommunication between him and I. Tried to flatten him off under the safety, and he kept it vertical, from what I saw in the moment.”Still, Moore’s absence from the locker room did not go unnoticed. Reports quickly spread that he was unavailable when reporters entered, which fueled criticism from former players and analysts. Terrell Owens was among those who believed Moore should have faced the media and addressed the play.On the field, Moore delivered a solid performance, catching five passes for 52 yards and a touchdown on eight targets, while also adding eight rushing yards. Williams finished 23 of 42 for 257 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions, while also contributing 40 rushing yards. Neither player had a ‘great’ night per se, but both were instrumental in Chicago’s rise this season.
