Sam Mustipher, Center
One of the few bright spots on the offensive line is the emergence of center Sam Mustipher for the Bears. Mustipher earned his first start against the New Orleans Saints due to an injury to Cody Whitehair and has looked impressive since.
He’s looked so impressive, the Bears eventually (after too many games) moved Whitehair from center to guard and gave Mustipher the starting center job. In the first run with this changed offensive line, David Montgomery broke a run for a 57 yard gain in between Whitehair and Mustipher.
In the recent two weeks, Mustipher has started, Montgomery had his two highest yards before contact totals. On top of this, Trubisky faced less pressure from the inside (the tackles didn’t change much). He has not allowed a single pressure and seems to be very good at snapping the ball, unlike Whitehair who has had issues before.
The Bears may have found their starting center as an undrafted free agent. If they can make him continue to improve every season, he could be a very solid starting center. His college pedigree has shown he can play at the next level as well as he was a standout center at the best offensive college in the country at Notre Dame.
Other Players to retain:
- Deon Bush, Safety
- Demetrius Harris, Tight End
- Brent Urban, Defensive End
- Barkevious Mingo, Outside Linebacker
- Alex Bars, Everywhere on the offensive line