Three Players to Watch On Friday

We did it, Bears fans. We made it. The wait is over. Tomorrow the Bears will play their first preseason game against the Eagles. Here are some players that may be on the roster bubble or fighting for a starting position.

Nov 10, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Eric Weems (14) before the game against the Lions at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports

• Eric Weems- With Marquess Wilson’s clavicle injury, the competition for the third wide receiver spot is wide open. Weems is battling Josh Morgan, Dale Moss, Chris Williams, Armanti Edwards, Josh Bellamy, and newly signed receiver Greg Herd for the starting position. Standing at 5’9, Weems’ size may be hurting his aspirations to be a starter. Jay Cutler is used to throwing to big targets. Brandon Marshall is 6’4, Alshon Jeffrey is 6’3, and Martellus Bennett is 6’6. Weems must develop a rhythm with Cutler in order to make an impact.
• Matthew Mulligan- Martellus Bennett’s suspension has given ex-Patriots tight end Matthew Mulligan an opportunity to take reps with the starting offense. Mulligan stepped in for Rob Gronkowski after he tore his MCL and ACL last year. Although he is mainly a blocking tight end, Mulligan snagged a couple touchdowns last season. It can’t hurt to have insurance behind Martellus Bennett, so be sure to keep an eye on Mulligan.
• Jimmy Clausen- For a while, it seemed like Jordan Palmer was the clearcut No.2 quarterback behind Cutler. But, according to Zach Zaidman of CBS Chicago, Marc Trestman said that Clausen is in serious competition for the backup spot. I’m sure Clausen is eager for an opportunity to restart his career, after sitting out the entire 2013 season due to injury.