Aug 15, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears center Taylor Boggs (60) during the second half against the San Diego Chargers at Soldier Field. Chicago won 33-28. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-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.
Since the Bears have 2 players on the roster sharing jersey #60, we’re going to give you 2 for the money, indicating 60 days until the Chicago Bears season opener!
We’ll start off previewing Center Taylor Boggs – a 4th year Center out of Humboldt State. Boggs appeared in one game for the Bears last season before being cut then re-signed again in the offseason, to a one year deal. It is highly unlikely that Boggs will beat out Roberto Garza and Brian De La Puente for a roster spot, but may be able to play well enough to convince offensive coordinator Aaron Kromer to keep 3 centers.
Devekeyan “DeDe” Lattimore is an undrafted free-agent inside linebacker from South Florida. Lattimore finished his 4 year college career with 337 tackles which is 2nd all-time at USF, while starting every year of his college career. Most mock drafts did not have him getting drafted, but being a priority free-agent signing. He possesses great instincts, is effective in run support between the tackles, very durable and plays with an attitude. Some critics state that Lattimore lacks ideal height and length, and can be a liability in coverage – all eerily similar to what was said of Mike Singletary when he came into the league.
Since Bostic, Briggs, Greene, McClellin and Williams all seem to be locks for a roster spot, his primary competition will be Jerry Franklin, Christian Jones, Conor O’Neill and Jordan Senn. It seems that if Lattimore wants to make the team, it may have to be on special teams where he does have college experience. He has the attitude and work ethic to make some noise in camp and make this team.
Some other notable #60’s for the Chicago Bears in recent memory include: Stan Thomas (’91-’92), Terrance Metcalf (’02-’05), Casey Wiegmann (’97-’00)
Be on the lookout for our Countdown to Kickoff series as we continue to work our way to the season opener on September 7th. We’re 60 days from kickoff. Are you ready???