Where does the stock stand on the seventh-round pick from Kansas State entering his first training camp?
When Ryan Pace drafted Duke Shelley late, not many knew he was. Shelly had a much better 2017 than 2018, and the lack of publicity along with the drop in his play had a player flying under the radar. Many saw him as a UDFA, but Pace saw his 2017 tape and his upside and committed to him.
When looking at Shelley as a player he is impressive. He can anticipate routes, jump the quarterback and make plays with the football. The question was, how quick can he adjust to the NFL?
According to reports from OTAs, Shelley looks every bit the gem that he was in 2017. In fact, he has been slowly coming along but is competing with Buster Skrine for slot snaps. Of course, this is a seventh-round pick and a rookie at that. He is going to take time to adjust.
Still, while Skrine is a veteran, but is not locked into anything. In fact, long term the Bears would hope that Shelley can overtake Skrine.
How soon will that happen? It may take some time. However, it is hard to ignore the noise that Shelley is picking things up. Shelley is a player that all Bears fans must keep an eye on as they head to camp this summer.
He is guaranteed to play a ton in the preseason, and if he makes noise, his name could start to get called on.
Do not be stunned if a strong camp has him on the fringe of starting, with the possibility of the switch coming midseason, similar to James Daniels and his adjustment at guard.