Bears nickelback D.J. Moore's slide down the depth chart hit rock bottom for "Monday Night Football." Moore, one of the Bears' more personable players, was a healthy scratch against the San Francisco 49ers.
Moore said he learned about being inactive on Monday morning, but that he felt it was coming.
''I was only on one special-team [unit],'' Moore said. ''And I didn't play last week . . . and [San Francisco] is more of a running team, too.''
Moore was active against the Houston Texans but didn't play. Veteran Kelvin Hayden continues to see more time at nickelback.
''From what [coach Lovie Smith] told me, it was performance-related,'' Moore said. ''I don't know. Whatever they tell me to do, I'll do, and go to work every day, try as hard I can and hopefully get back out there soon.''
Moore has proven to be a playmaker in his four years. He has two interceptions this season and 10 in his career, including one he returned 54 yards for a touchdown. He also has broken up five passes this season.
But the Bears face another run-heavy team in the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. It's very possible he could be on the outside looking in for the second week in a row.
So where does Moore go from here?
"I mean, I know I can play," Moore said. "What happens is whatever happens."
There is no way he could have done worse than the secondary did Monday night. He has shown great talent in the past, and i think he should be available every game.