Instant Reaction: Bears first preseason game, defensive edition
Who are the stand out defender from the Bears first preseason game?
Without combing through and looking at the coaches tape, there were still some instant reactions that are worth looking into coming right out of the gates. For this edition, we will look at what stood out on the defensive side of the ball.
Defensive line
Mitch Unrein got the start, and made a few plays. The trio of Unrein, Akiem Hicks and Eddie Goldman held up very strong against the Broncos starters. Jonathan Bullard and C.J. Wilson were the other stand outs, and Wilson was able to get on the field before John Jenkins, which is worth noting.
Edge
Leonard Floyd exploded off of the edge and showed great hands in beating his opponent and getting a sack. Dan Skuta had a strong game as well applying pressure, and Sam Acho showed well on defense and on special teams.
Line backer
The most noteworthy situation was Christian Jones seeing the field before Jonathan Anderson and John Timu. There is a chance that only one of the three will stay on the roster, so for them to show that early trust in Jones is huge. He has had a good camp and brings special teams value, so he definitely has a good shot to make the team right now.
Next: How to fix the special teams
Cornerback
Bryce Callahan started in the slot and looked like he should keep that spot going into week two of the preseason. He and Prince Amukamara were able to move around, and Callahan provided a nice tackle on a third down to end a drive. CreVon LeBlanc was second on the depth chart in the slot and played the majority of the second half. That battle along with the progression of Kyle Fuller will be the things to watch in week two.
Safety
Eddie Jackson has been the talk of camp and was one of the most impressive players of the first preseason game as well. He returned punts, and while he did not start at safety, he likely saw the most snaps of the night. Jackson played with Adrian Amos, Quintin Demps, and DeAndre Houston-Carson throughout the night. The team clearly has big plans for him, and is seeing how he can fit in. Houston-Carson on the other hand has been a disappointment, and is looking like a practice squad player.