Podcast: Previewing the Chicago Bears linebackers

Hope you are ready for a ton of Chicago Bears talk as this week’s podcast episode pulls some double-duty as it covers both inside and outside linebacking positions.

In this episode of The Chicago Audible, the guys continue their annual summer series “Countdown to Camp” — where they go episode-by-episode previewing every position (and player) on the Chicago Bears — the guys share their in-depth preview (and discussion on) the outside and inside linebackers.

Starting on the outside of the Chicago Bears linebacking group

Every Bears Fan knows just how impactful Khalil Mack is on any given down, but the all-pro outside linebacker has seen his numbers dwindle downward for a couple of seasons now. How do the Bears enable him to produce at a higher rate in 2021?

Of course, an easy answer would be if Robert Quinn can start playing up to the caliber that he should be given his lofty contract. Is there any hope things will click for Quinn in Chicago this season?

The Bears signed Jeremiah Attaochu this offseason, what should you expect when he comes in off the bench? Is James Vaughters a lock to make the team again? And who is this Charles Snowden kid out of Virginia?

Looking inside at the Chicago Bears linebacking group

Roquan Smith had an incredible 2020. Even though he was snubbed for both pro bowl and all-pro honors, Smith is poised to have another stellar season. Is it fair to assume he can top what he did a year ago?

At the age of 31, Danny Trevathan isn’t the spry young buck he was when he came to Chicago. After a tough start last season, Trevathan turned things around for the second half. Can he sustain that higher level of play or will there be some serious struggles again?

One of the biggest lacks of depth on the team last year was at inside linebacker. To (hopefully) solve that, the Bears brought back Christian Jones. Will he provide that stability behind the starters that was missing?

The guys also make some bold predictions for the unit, play some over/under and discuss a few additional superlatives along the way. And of course, they stay true to form (adhering to their promise to discuss every player on the roster heading into training camp) by making sure they share which players fighting for roster spots have the best chance of making the team.

Which linebackers will make the team? And what should we expect from those players in 2021?

As always, the guys at The Chicago Audible, have you covered.

Other positional preview episodes:

Chicago Bears Offensive Line Preview

Chicago Bears Defensive Line Preview

Chicago Bears Tight End Preview

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