Countdown to Kickoff… Matt Slauson Days from Chicago Bears Season Opener

May 14, 2013; Lake Forest, IL, USA; Chicago Bears offensive guard Matt Slauson (68) and guard Eben Britton (62) during organized team activities at Halas Hall. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

I decided to do a countdown to the Chicago Bears season opener on September 8th versus the Cincinnati Bengals.  Thanks to one of my Twitter followers, I decided to combine the countdown with a roster preview of sorts.

We’re Matt Slauson days from the kickoff of the Chicago Bears 2013 regular season.  Matt Slauson might not be a name you’re really familiar with yet, but you will be.  Read all about him…

The Bears signed the former New York Jets sixth round pick to a one year deal this offseason.  Slauson has been the model of durability, starting all 48 games in his last three seasons as the Jets’ starting left guard.  In his rookie season, he appeared in three games, seeing action at both center and guard.  Maybe he could be the answer if Roberto Garza goes down?

There are some pretty big expectations for Slauson, who is penciled in as the starter at left guard.  He ranked higher than any Bears guard in Pro Football Focus’ ranking of guards from last season.   He excels at pass blocking but could stand to improve his run blocking a bit.  Along with Jermon Bushrod, they should form a formidable duo on the left side.  The big question for Slauson will be what happens beyond his one year deal with the Bears.

Other notable Bears who wore #68 are free agent bust Frank Omiyale and before wearing #99, Jim Flanigan donned it as a rookie.

We’re 68 days from kickoff.  Are you ready???