Chicago Bears Week 1 Free Agent Stock Watch
By Tooch
Corey Wooton — FALLING
Wooton was a non-factor during Sunday’s game and will have to win the competition against Shea McClellin this season. So far, McClellin is winning.
Roberto Garza — RISING
The Bears need consistency on the offensive line and between Cutler and his center. Keeping Garza for another couple of years couldn’t hurt.
Sep 8, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tight end Jermaine Gresham (center) is tackled by Chicago Bears cornerback Tim Jennings (left) and Chicago Bears outside linebacker James Anderson (right) during the second quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
D.J. Williams — FALLING
Jon Bostic is waiting in the wings to take over at middle linebacker. He’s younger and has much more upside.
James Anderson — RISING
Anderson had two big pass breakups during Sunday’s win and can be a great mentor for rookie Khaseem Greene.
Tim Jennings — FALLING
Jennings turned in a disappointing performance on Sunday and will have to rely on creating turnovers this season to warrant a new deal.
Matt Slauson — RISING
Slauson provides veteran presence and consistency on the offensive line and brings a welcomed nasty streak to the Bears’ offense.
Major Wright — FALLING
Wright is a very ordinary safety who doesn’t make many impact plays. He got beat too many times against the Bengals and may struggle this season if the defensive line can’t maintain quarterback pressure.
Eric Weems — RISING
It will be difficult for the Bears to justify keeping Hester if he doesn’t perform. Weems is a special teams ace and proved it on Sunday.
Kelvin Hayden — FALLING
Missing the entire 2013 season and the rise of Isaiah Frey will not help his cause.
Patrick Mannelly — RISING
He’s a life-long Bear and he’s got a few more years left in the tank.
Zack Bowman — FALLING
The Bears will need to look elsewhere for a starter if they lose Tillman or Jennings.
Tony Fiametta — RISING
The Bears haven’t had a steady fullback since Jason McKie. He can be utilized in Marc Trestman’s offense.
Josh McCown — FALLING
The Bears love Matt Blanchard and McCown is just getting older.
Eben Britton — RISING
Britton can be an affordable insurance policy for rookie Jordan Mills and an effective swing tackle.
Dante Rosario — FALLING
As long as Martellus Bennett stays healthy, Rosario won’t see much action.
Craig Steltz — RISING
Steltz is another top special teams player for the Bears who doesn’t command much money.
Jonathan Scott — FALLING
Scott now has serious competition from Britton for the swing tackle on the team.
Nate Collins — RISING
If Melton disappoints this season, Collins may be thrust into a more prominent role.
Stay tuned each week for more Free Agent Stock Watch.