Stock Down: Bears’ Training Camp Fallers
The Chicago Bears have completed seven training camp practices, including two with pads. Saturday’s session was the longest, lasting over two hours. With these practices now finished, there is enough data and film to evaluate which players are excelling and which are struggling. Unlike recent years, the Bears now have a talented roster, leading to increased competition. This means some players cannot afford to have a poor camp this year. Here are the players who need to improve after a rocky start to training camp.
Bears offensive line
I considered pointing out a few players on the line, but in the end, I think everyone needs to improve. Darnell Wright was a top ten pick, so I expect more from him. However, since the pads just went on, I’ll give him some time. It’s good to have Teven Jenkins and Nate Davis present, but Davis is currently day-to-day with a strain. Braxton Jones is dealing with an injury, and Larry Borom also needs to step up his game. Additionally, the Bears still haven’t decided on their starting center. With all the pressure Caleb Williams is facing and the numerous false starts, the Bears’ line as a whole needs to be better.
Roschon Johnson
Seeing Roschon Johnson on this list might surprise some people. Johnson isn’t having a bad camp, but he’s overshadowed by the performances of Khalil Herbert and D’Andre Swift. Johnson doesn’t stand out as much as these two due to a lack of burst. While he might show more once the pads are on for more than two days, it’s challenging to evaluate running backs in a camp setting, especially since Johnson is a power/physical back. Overall, I just want to see a bit more from him.
Zacch Pickens
Pickens was selected in the 3rd round last year and had a challenging rookie season, recording just 9 tackles, a forced fumble, and 0.5 sacks. This training camp, he has frequently been on the sidelines, which is concerning given his limited reps. In contrast, we are hearing more about Gervon Dexter. However, it’s still early, and the preseason games might provide a better opportunity to evaluate Pickens.
Progress Reports
I will provide progress reports throughout training camp, including updates on players who are not listed in the rising and falling columns. Keep an eye out for those updates.