Ryan Groy Days Until Chicago Bears Season Opener
Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
The Chicago Bears open their 2015 regular season on September 13th at home against the Green Bay Packers, which is exactly 79 days away. Continuing our Countdown to Kickoff series, it is time to take a look at #79, second year guard Ryan Groy.
The Bears added Ryan Groy as an undrafted free agent out of Wisconsin following the 2014 NFL Draft. Groy had a decorated career in Madison. He set a school record appearing in 54 games and starting 33 over his 4-year career. After starting all 13 games his senior season he was named third-team All American and first-team Big Ten.
Groy was signed to the Bears practice squad last September and added to the 53-man roster in November. Groy appeared in four games and started in three last season as injuries forced him into action. Groy has shown flexibility in his college career, playing tackle, guard and center, but his best position is guard. He could prove to be an interesting factor in 2015, especially if the Bears want to move Kyle Long out to tackle.
Groy will have his hands full trying to crack the Bears 53-man roster in 2015. Besides Long and fellow presumed starter Matt Slauson, Groy will be vying for playing time against Vlad Ducasse, Chad Hamilton and Conor Boffeli at guard. Then you have Center/Guards like veteran Will Montgomery and rookie Hroniss Grasu. Heck, you might even see Jordan Mills or Michael Ola slide inside from tackle.
With a new zone blocking scheme and a new coordinator, you don’t really know what to expect and how guys will adapt to the new system. With a year under his belt and some flexibility, Groy could make some noise to fill in one of the reserve lineman roles.
We’re just 79 days away from kickoff. Are you ready?