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Ian Bunting improves stock in Chicago Bears preseason opener

By Parker Hurley

CORVALLIS, OR - OCTOBER 20: Tight end Ian Bunting #83 of the California Golden Bears celebrates as fullback Malik McMorris #99 of the California Golden Bears catches a touchdown pass the first half of the game against the Oregon State Beavers at Reser Stadium on October 20, 2018 in Corvallis, Oregon. (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images)
CORVALLIS, OR - OCTOBER 20: Tight end Ian Bunting #83 of the California Golden Bears celebrates as fullback Malik McMorris #99 of the California Golden Bears catches a touchdown pass the first half of the game against the Oregon State Beavers at Reser Stadium on October 20, 2018 in Corvallis, Oregon. (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images) /
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Ian Bunting was a surprise star of the Chicago Bears first preseason game

We knew coming into the Chicago Bears first preseason game that we would not be seeing a lot of Mitch Trubisky or any of the starters for that matter. The first week of the preseason is for bottom of the roster players to set a tone and gain momentum heading into the next week of camp.

Roster spots are won and depth chart battles begin in the preseason. With that in mind, Ian Bunting put himself on the radar as a prime example of what the preseason is all about.

Coming into the game it was surprising to see Bunting ahead of Dax Raymond on the depth chart. Both were UDFAs, but Raymond had more media attention. However, Bunting may be the player to watch.

Bunting has serious size at 6’7″ and over 250 pounds. His combination of size and athleticism was on full display as he hauled in three passes for 77 yards. He showed reliable hands, an understanding to work the seams, and athleticism to play after the catch.

Yes, it is preseason week one, and Bunting is still in a tight spot to make the roster. Bunting also lost a fumble running after the catch. However, the spot certainly grew due to his performance, and now he heads into week two with momentum.

On top of that, look at the Bears tight end depth chart?

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Ok, Trey Burton is locked in. From there, Adam Shaheen has struggled to put together multiple strong practice sessions. Shaheen is a project as it is, and while his upside is undeniable, he is three years in.

Behind them in Ben Braunecker who makes his name on special teams, and Bradley Sowell who was a former tackle.

Those are the only names in front of Bunting.

All of the sudden a player with an outside shot of making the roster has a chance to be a notable preseason follow. Of course, there is plenty of room to grow. His highs can be met with the low of a fumble. Matt Nagy complimented his ability to run routes and catch, but said he needs to refine as a blocker.

Nonetheless, he is offically on the radar. Keep an eye on Bunting as he looks to progress and make a name for himself as the summer churns on.

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