Chicago Bears: 5 UDFAs with the best shot to make the final roster

Chicago Bears (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
Chicago Bears (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /
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Chicago Bears, Rashad Smith
Chicago Bears (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images) /

Rashad Smith, Inside Linebacker

The guy I believe has the best chance of making this team is inside linebacker Rashad Smith. Smith was one of the most productive players in Flordia Atlantic’s history. Pace got a good look at Smith while he watched running backs Devin Singletary and Kerrith Whyte closely.

This past season, Smith was a star on the defense racking up 96 total tackles, 11.5 for a loss, 3.5 sacks, 2 interceptions, and 5 fumble recoveries. On top of this, he was also the Boca Raton Bowl Defensive MVP in which he had 11 tackles, an interception, and a fumble recovery for a touchdown.

Smith offers great ball instincts and solid technique as he was a three-year starter and played as a true freshman. Smith additionally offers great coverage ability, ability to rush the passer, and great run recognition. Smith is what the Bears love in all their players: a versatile linebacker. He can play anywhere on the field.

The depth chart now for inside linebacker got incredibly weak with the departure of Nick Kwiatkoski and Kevin Pierre-Louis. They still have Josh Woods and Joel Iyiegbuniwe, but Smith could push them for the main backup gig if he proves himself.