Chicago Bears Offseason Stock Watch: James Daniels
How has the stock of Chicago Bears starting center James Daniels changed this offseason?
When the Chicago Bears drafted James Daniels out of Iowa, his most recent position was center. However, in the Bears press conference, they did not commit to center, saying he may see snaps at guard.
The team stuck to their word and even despite snap issues for Cody Whitehair, they kept Daniels at guard. Heck, Daniels did not start out of the gate as Eric Kush was getting snaps at left guard. However, after seeing rotational snaps in Week Four, Daniels took over by Week Five.
Now entering his second offseason the new challenge of center is being brought to him. When considering the team was not ready to thrust Daniels into a starting role at guard, let alone center, it would have been a lot of moving parts and a tall task for a rookie.
Not to say that guard is easier than center, but the Bears likely wanted to get Daniels feet wet in the NFL before adding in the responsibility of snapping, calling out the protections, and all of the other responsibility of center. With Harry Hiestand in control, he should be trusted on the decision and progression.
With that in mind, this has the potential to be a big step forward for James Daniels. He is developing a relationship with Mitch Trubisky, and at just 21 years old, Daniels has the chance to be the teams starting center for the long term future. This season could be the start of a dynamic relationship.
Next. Offseason Stock Watch: Isaiah Irving. dark
Cody Whitehair is still in the mix, and arguably is in a better spot than the year before in his more natural position. It may take a little time to adjust, but there is no way that the position change can be looked at as anything but a positive.