Training Camp Update: Leonard Floyd
After a week of training camp, we assess the development of second-year linebacker Leonard Floyd.
Leonard Floyd had himself an outstanding rookie season for the Chicago Bears. Despite being banged up early and having some concussion issues late, Floyd appeared in 12 games, recorded 7 sacks, and showed he had a general ability to get to the quarterback, disrupt the pocket and make plays for the defense.
With Floyd’s thin frame, several scouts thought Floyd would be a year or two away from making an impact and was more of a project. However, Floyd proved he was ready in year one and is ready to make a bigger leap in year two. After a week down at Bourbonnais at training camp, Floyd has looked impressive.
4. Leonard Floyd is so damn quick off the edge. Obviously it's early but 10+ sacks in 2017 is a real possibility if healthy. #Bears
— Aaron Leming (@AaronLemingNFL) July 29, 2017
Not exactly going out on a limb but Leonard Floyd looks like a beast. Health willing, he's going to ascend as fast as he bends edge. #Bears
— Arthur Arkush (@ArthurArkush) August 4, 2017
Everyone likes what they see from Floyd. He’s healthy and he looks like he has the ability to dominate. But health is the key issue. The Bears have to be concerned about the fact that he had two concussions as a rookie. Both were a result of poor technique and Floyd has gone on the record saying his technique has improved and he will avoid keeping his head down which is critical.
Related Story: Training Camp Update: Adam Shaheen
The Bears need Floyd healthy and they need him on the field and they need him dominating. The Bears have invested a lot of draft choices and free agent dollars to their front seven, and Floyd needs to become the crown jewel of that group. So far it looks like he has the ability to do so, but if his health derails his career, it could be a massive blow to the future of the Bears defense.