Chicago Bears Rookie Class Showing Early Promise
May 10, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears tackle Jordan Mills (67) walks off the field after the rookie minicamp on Friday. Mandatory Credit: Reid Compton-USA TODAY Sports
5th Round – Jordan Mills (Offensive Tackle)
I’ll be honest, I didn’t think that Mills had a particularly strong game against the Panthers. Then again, J’Marcus Webb had a worse game in limited action as well. It’s telling that rather than keep Webb out there the whole game, like Mike Tice did in last season’s preseason opener, Mills got in the game and along with Long, took the most offensive snaps.
Mills still needs to work on his technique and there will be growing pains, but Bears coaches saw enough to put him alongside Long as the starters on the right side of the line.
6th Round – Cornelius Washington (Defensive End)
Washington saw limited action in the first preseason game, taking 25% of the defensive snaps. He was credited with a couple of tackles. He’s got a ways to go, but as a pass rush specialist, he could have a future. He showed really good speed when he was out there.
7th Round – Marquess Wilson (Wide Receiver)
Wilson led all Bears receivers with 4 catches for 82 yards and just missed scoring on a long reception of 58 yards. Had it gone for 62 and he kept his left foot in bounds, he would have had a big TD reception. He showed good speed and decent hands. Could he compete for the 5th receiver spot? A big key for him will be to make an impression on special teams even though he didn’t play teams in college.
UFA – Zach Minter (Defensive Tackle)
Zach Minter has really impressed coaches with his speed and motor. With a thin DT group, Minter has a chance to make the 53-man roster and is certainly a practice squad candidate.
UFA – Michael Ford (Running Back)
Ford made it a competition with a decent showing on offense and with the ability to return kicks gives him a shot to make the roster. Armando Allen’s hamstring injury should give Ford a chance to get plenty of reps to showcase his talents.
It’s still really early, but this class is showing promise. What do you think of the Bears rookie class? Do they have a chance to be immediate contributors? Which rookie has the best chance? Let’s see your comments.