James Brown Days Until Chicago Bears Season Opener

Dec. 23, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA: Chicago Bears offensive tackle James Brown (78) and guard Edwin Williams (70) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Bears defeated the Cardinals 28-13. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

We had so much fun doing our Countdown to Kickoff series last season that we decided to do it again.  In case you’re new to the series, we’ll do a roster preview as we count down the days until the Chicago Bears September 7th season opener against the Buffalo Bills.

Just 78 days until the Chicago Bears open the season and since both James Brown and Lee Pegues are currently wearing number 78 for the orange and navy, we thought we’d do a double-header of sorts and tell you about them both.  First up, offensive lineman James Brown.

Brown played his college ball for Troy University after transferring from Southwest Mississippi Community College, where he was named a second-team All-Mississippi Community College performer.  He was a 2-year starter at Troy and was named first-team All-Sun Belt as a senior.

Despite being seen as a second day draft pick by many analysts (number 54 on Mel Kiper’s Big Board), Brown went undrafted 2012.  He was promptly signed by the following the draft, and was subsequently relegated to the practice squad prior to the season opener.  Brown was elevated to the Bears’ active roster in late November 2012 and started the final three games of that season.  He was a backup in 2013.

I think it’s likely that James Brown makes the final roster this year.  I think Charles Leno will be his main competition, but a 7th round rookie can’t be considered a strong favorite in any position battle.  Even if he makes the final roster this season, it will be a make or break season for Brown.  2014 is his last season under contract with Chicago and if he doesn’t show something this year, I don’t think he” be resigned.