Analyzing the opponent: Ranking NFC North Linebacker Groups

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Sep 19, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears inside linebacker Jerrell Freeman (50) reacts after making a tackle against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Bears:

Danny Trevathan, Jerrell Freeman, Nick Kwiatkoski, Christian Jones, Jonathan Timu

The Bears duo of linebackers at the top could be one of the better units in the league but it has yet to come to fruition. Freeman is a stud linebacker. He never misses assignments and plays with force, speed and toughness. Freeman missed four games last but most were due to suspension. However, of the two his PED suspension is the least to worry about.

There is a good chance that Trevathan will be starting his season on the PUP list. Trevathan tore his patellar tendon last season, an injury that is usually 10-12 months in recovery time. It would be a great sign to see him get on the field at all this season, but it limits the upside of this group.

Kwiatkowski showed that he can be a solid option as a depth linebacker. He was just a rookie last season but is now expected to be a starter in the place of Trevathan for the time being. Jones and Timu are versatile players who can play inside and outside and give efforts on special teams. However, without Trevathan, they are likely to see the field some, and the depth behind Freeman is a bit alarming.

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