Chicago Bears Week 5 Free Agent Stock Watch
By Tooch
FALLING
Nate Collins
It’s plain and simple for Collins — you can’t earn a new contract if you’re not on the field. Unfortunately for Collins, who had been playing well before a torn ACL knocked him out for the season, it will be difficult for the Bears to justify signing him to a new contract unless it’s at a minimum risk for the team. The Bears now have two very difficult decisions to make this offseason with Collins and fellow defensive tackle Henry Melton, who is dealing with the very same injury.
Devin Hester
It was yet another very quiet week for Devin Hester against the Saints. The return man had just one punt return for 17 yards and two kick returns for a 24.5 yard average. The Bears special teams unit has been uncharacteristically mediocre so far this season, but nonetheless, Hester will need to show some glimpses of his old “ridiculous” self if he hopes to keep his job into next season.
Tim Jennings
Jennings struggled mightily for most of Sunday, getting lost in coverage and blowing several key tackles. While Bears fans expected Jimmy Graham to pose a huge challenge for the miniature cornerback, it was the Saints running backs that ultimately hurt Jennings and the Bears secondary the most. Jennings’ value to the Bears is in his ability to create turnovers, so he’ll need to get back to that soon in order to secure a long-term stay in Chicago.