Predicting which Current Chicago Bears will be Future Assets

Linebackers

Pernell McPhee– Yes– He hasn’t been on the field this year due to injury, but he proved last season that he’s a valuable asset and a leader on the defense. He’s a playmaker, which this defense needs. Don’t expect McPhee to be going anywhere.
Jerrell Freeman– Probable– Freeman is this year’s McPhee. He has come in, instantly become a leader of the defense and has been the team’s best player. He is 30-years old, so if Kwiatkoski develops, the Bears could consider letting Freeman walk after three seasons, but that will be very hard to do if this production keeps up.
Danny Trevathan– Yes– Trevathan was Pace’s prized free agent acquisition and he has been good so far this season. His production is difficult to judge because he’s missed time with a thumb injury, but he has definitely been a major upgrade over last season and his youth and athleticism tell you he isn’t going anywhere.
Nick Kwiatkoski– Probable– A fourth round pick this season, Kwiatkoski missed some time during the preseason so his season got off to a slow start. However, after getting an opportunity after Trevathan’s injury, Kwiatkoski showed that he has skill and talent and has the potential to be a big contributor on defense. If he develops into the player that it looks like he could become, Pace will make sure he keeps him around.
Willie Young– Doubtful– Young is 31 and once Floyd develops and McPhee is healthy, becomes a rotational player. The Bears like him, but he’s at an age where he should start declining and while he could be a contributor for this season and next season, don’t expect him around much beyond that.
Lamarr Houston– No– With another major injury and inconsistent production, not to mention a large cap number, it’s hard to expect Houston to play another down with the Bears.
Leonard Floyd– Probable– Floyd has shown flashes of talent but has a long way to go to become the defensive presence the Bears think he can become. He will get every opportunity to succeed in this defense and has shown that he should develop into an impact player, but it’s not going to be immediately.
Christian Jones– No– Injuries to McPhee, Houston and Trevathan have barely gotten Jones on the field. He’s a solid player but just won’t crack this linebacker rotation. This is probably his last season in Chicago.
John Timu– Doubtful– Timu has shown ability in his limited chances. Unfortunately for him, he’s an inside linebacker and isn’t going to be able to jump the two free agent signings or Kwiatkoski. Timu could become a rotational player for this team but it’s likely that the Bears will let him leave to pursue a starting job when his contract expires.
Roy Robertson-Harris– Unknown- He’s an athletic freak who could become a dynamite pass rusher. He was red-shirted this year after battling an illness throughout the preseason. He will get an opportunity to prove he’s worthy of a roster position next year.