It is looking like Javon Wims may get the start for the Chicago Bears on Thursday
The initial injury report came out and it is worth noting that Taylor Gabriel was held out with a concussion. Gabriel missed most of the second half on Sunday, and with a short week, it is going to be tough for him to be back.
That means that we are likely to see a lot of Javon Wims. Anthony Miller plays primarily in the slot, so Wims will be able to take the snaps that Gabriel had on the outside.
This is a much-anticipated start for Wims. Wims has worked from a late-round pick to being inactive most of last year to beat out his former teammate Riley Ridley in training camp for an active roster spot.
Now Wims has a chance to take advantage.
Wims is a bigger player than Gabriel and does not have the same deep speed. However, he does bring the same deep ball capabilities due to his ability to go up and get the jump ball.
His preseason stats have been strong, with 23 receptions for 309 yards in two seasons. However, in two NFL seasons, he has 11 receptions for 113 yards. Much less explosive plays with much less opportunity.
Seven of his receptions for 81 yards came this year and that includes his first career touchdown. Wims has provided a spark at times, he has shown well as a blocker, and in a lost season, seeing Wims emerge as a threat could be a small consolation prize.