Countdown to Kickoff… Joe Anderson Days Until Chicago Bears Season Opener
Aug 24, 2012; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Joe Anderson (19) scores a touchdown past New York Giants defensive back Bruce Johnson (25) during the second half at Metlife Stadium. The Bears won the game 20-17 Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
We decided to do a countdown to the Chicago Bears season opener on September 8th versus the Cincinnati Bengals. Thanks to one of our Twitter followers, we decided to combine the countdown with a roster preview of sorts.
We’re just 19 days away from the start of the Chicago Bears season. That’s training camp star Joe Anderson days away. Let’s get to know the up-and-coming wide receiver.
Wide receiver Joe Anderson joined the Bears in 2012 as an undrafted free agent out of Texas Southern. Despite catching a game-winning touchdown pass in the third preseason game against the New York Giants, he was among one of the final roster cuts. He was brought back to the practice squad before getting elevated to the active roster late in the season, primarily to work on special teams.
Anderson took his chance very seriously and made quite an impression on special teams, nearly blocking a punt and recording a few key tackles. Not resting on his laurels, Anderson worked hard during the offseason and has been steadily climbing up the depth charts. With a really strong offseason program, Anderson is poised to crack the 53-man roster as possibly the 4th or 5th wide receiver.
Anderson is firmly behind Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery. A few weeks ago, I would have said he’s also behind Earl Bennett, but with #80 dealing with his second concussion in less than a year, Anderson could challenge for Bennett’s playing time.
Eric Weems and his contributions on special teams make him a challenger for Anderson’s playing time. Rookie Marquess Wilson will need to find a role on teams to get into that mix. Expect Anderson to secure that 4th receiver spot by the time the real action gets going.
We’re just 19 days until kickoff. Are you ready???
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