How has the Chicago Bears defensive line looked through the first week of training camp?
After the first big rush of practices it is a good chance to look back at the Chicago Bears roster and see where the buzz is heading. It is important to remember that while these notes are worth putting stock into, a lot can change just between now and the start of the regular season.
Akiem Hicks
Hicks has been a quiet name in camp so far, but really, did we want to hear anything from him? He was given an off day on Tuesday, but has been in there with the regulars on defense, and has been coaching up some of the younger lineman.
Eddie Goldman
Before camp there were extension talks around Eddie Goldman as he enters the last year of his deal. Those talks have been quiet in camp, but Goldman did say that he showed up down a few pounds.
Bears defensive lineman Eddie Goldman checked into camp at 318 pounds, his playing weight from Florida State. His goal is to be more explosive off the snap.
— Chris Emma (@CEmma670) July 21, 2018
Goldman is looking for that explosion to stay on the field more in nickel situations. If he can add a pass rush, he will play more, get more stats and make more money.
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Jonathan Bullard
Bullard has not turned heads from the media quite yet. However, Goldman did comment on the get off by Bullard.
Eddie Goldman said he and Akiem Hicks have benefited from the 'explosive' Jonathan Bullard: "He can get to a gap so fast, and you can play off him because you see him so early."
— Chris Emma (@CEmma670) July 21, 2018
While this is a good sign, this has been known by Bullard. The question with him is how he can process and react to change.
Roy Robertson-Harris
Robertson-Harris has been given chance in the battle to start next to Akiem Hicks and Eddie Goldman. He and Bullard have split time so far in camp. So far, neither has stepped out in front.
Bilal Nichols and John Jenkins
It has been quiet on their front. They do not have much competition, but at the same time are not turning heads for a bigger role.