It has been quite an exciting week for the Chicago Bears and the rest of the league. We finally found out the entirety of the 2021 NFL schedule, and these Bears will be on the big stage quite often.
Before they hit that stage in Week 1 against the Los Angels Rams on Sunday Night Football though, they have a whole summer of preparation to get through. It begins right now with rookie minicamp kicking off this weekend.
Camp will run from Friday through Sunday, with the Bears bringing in their entire rookie class along with several undrafted free agents and players on a tryout basis.
General manager Ryan Pace did an excellent job this year in the draft, pulling off two enormous trades to land franchise cornerstone-type pieces. Both Justin Fields and Teven Jenkins will be present for minicamp, and you better believe they will be establishing themselves as leaders among the group right away.
The Chicago Bears could see some rookies surprise at minicamp.
We’re obviously going to be fixated with how Fields looks in minicamp. Every reporter and their mother will be asking coaches about how Fields handled himself on and off the field throughout the weekend. But, it’s not just all about Fields.
There are some players coming into this weekend that may not have as bright of an immediate future. These guys have been busting their tails just like any other first or second-round pick, yet will need to do more than the rest to secure a future in this league.
Nothing in the NFL is guaranteed, even if you did hear your name drafted at some point. However, if these young men work hard, they could begin their ascension right here and now.
There are four key players fans should watch for reports on this weekend, other than the big names. These players could end up being integral pieces of the roster at some point in the future, but their development may be kickstarted by a strong showing at minicamp.