What is there to watch for from each linebacker entering training camp?
Jerrell Freeman
Freeman missed four games last season after failing the league’s substance abuse policy. He came back and looked fine, but this offseason should at the very least feature a different dietary habit. Supplements that he had been using before will now be cut out. While this did not show to affect him over a four-week span, how will he look physically after an offseason with a new training regimen?
Danny Trevathan
It would be something just to see Trevathan on the field. For him, all that can be seen are status updates, and hopefully some sort of sign as to whether or not the Bears expect him to play in 2017 at all.
Nick Kwiatkowski
Kwiatkowski is assumed to be the starter who fills in for Trevathan. Kwiatkowski should have been looking at this offseason as one that could lead to his big break in the NFL. He should show up in great shape, with a great understanding of the defense, and the talk around him had better be positive if he wants the team to commit to him long term.
Christian Jones
The relationship and trust between Jones and the new coaching staff will need to be followed. Only four players are on the team from the Marc Trestman regime, and Jones is one of them. Next year, there is a chance that number is much lower. Can Jones stay on the right side of the coaches bed and earn himself a job over players handpicked by the new staff?
John Timu
If Timu is going to make the team, it will be special teams play. However, Jones and Jonathan Anderson have put up more special teams snaps in each of the past two seasons. Can he earn an increased role to pass over Anderson or Jones in that area?
Jonathan Anderson
Anderson, like Timu, will have to win his job on special teams. He does have more experience, but Timu brought more to the defense last season, so Anderson will have to prove that he is a full step ahead of Timu on special teams.
Next: Training camp preview: Guard
Alex Scearce
Scearce will likely be battling for an opportunity on the practice squad. However, he profiles as a player who would make a living on special teams. If he can show the understanding and willingness to step into that sort of role it will give the Bears a reason to keep him around on the roster.