Unknown edge rusher Kasim Edebali began his push to make the Chicago Bears roster in Week One of the preseason
Kasım Edebali missed the Hall of Fame game. That, combined with impact efforts from Kylie Fitts and Isaiah Irving led to him being a complete afterthought concerning the 53-man roster.
However, Edebali entered camp knowing he was competing for a roster spot. Edebali has more NFL experience than Fitts and Irving and is a very technically sound player, despite not having a high ceiling.
Edebali showed his technique and experience against the Cincinnati Bengals, and it has undoubtedly put his name right back in the conversation.
Run Defense
Edebali showed that he could be counted on to set the edge. Run defense is important in Chicago because Floyd plays well in the passing game and space, so having a tough run stuffer next to him is a strong complement.
Yes, the competition is not strong; still, two tight ends double team Kasim Edebali below. Edebali is able to rip through the tight ends and get into the backfield to make the run stuff.
Edebali is unable to make the tackle below, but he blows the play up in the backfield. The back is never able to recover, and the credit goes to Edebali for using a swim move to blow past the tight end completely.
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Pass Rush
Edebali did not get home for a sack, but did show some impressive movement in his ability to get pressure on the quarterback. Below he is able to swipe passed the left tackl and force a rushed pass.
Watch the bend in the play below. The tackle looks silly failing to get his hands on Edebali as Edebali blows past him.
His bend is on display again as he gets around the edge quick. This forces the quarterback to step up into a sack. Edebali does not show up in the box score with a sack, but you can bet the coaches are thinking about his effort for this play.
Lastly, we see him get into the backfield with a spin move. The quarterback is forced to throw the football away.
Kasım Edebali knew that missing the Hall of Fame game was a hindrance to his chances of making the roster. However, he made up for it by treating every snap like it was his last in Week One.
No, he did not show up as a big name in the box score, and he is not getting the highlight fame. Still, he is competing with a sixth-round pick and a UDFA for a couple of low-end roster spots.
Kasım Edebali took significant snaps in the game and likely earned even more in Week Two. When talking about Isaiah Irving, and Kylie Fitts and their chances of making the roster, do not forget the name Kasim Edebali.