Now that the Chicago Bears are done with OTAs they will shift their attention to training camp. They will not finalize the depth chart, but the initial camp depth chart will determine who gets first reps and with what group. From there, it is on these players to make the most of it.
When looking at the Chicago Bears, what is the depth chart on their defensive line shaping up to look like?
1. Akiem Hicks
Hicks may not be at his elite caliber of play, but he is still a leader on the roster both on and off of the field.
2. Bilal Nichols
Nichols has earned getting the most snaps amongst defensive linemen. He may also be closer to Akiem Hicks in snaps played as Hicks starts to get older, and Nichols ascends into his peak. The Bears may want to extend Nichols this offseason.
3. Eddie Goldman
Goldman is in a weird spot where is in the team’s starting nose tackle, but there are many more questions after he missed OTAs.
4. Mario Edwards Jr.
Mario Edwards was very underrated last year and the Bears showed their appreciation by giving him a raise and bring him back.
5. Angelo Blackson
Angelo Blackson was a surprise signing in some respects, the Bears spent what little they had of cap space to upgrade their number five defensive lineman. They did lose RRH and Brent Urban this offseason.
6. Mike Pennel
The signing of Pennel makes the absence of Eddie Goldman all the more interesting. Pennel can be a starting nose tackle, so for now he is the backup.
7. Khyiris Tonga
The assumption would be if Goldman is out, and Pennel is starting Tonga remains depth. Tonga is a nose tackle, and the addition of Pennel may secure six-strong veterans and leave the seventh-round pick to the practice squad.
8. LaCale London
London stuck around last season and is back after a year on the practice squad. He is in a loaded group and may hope for the PS again.
9. Daniel Archibong
Archinbong is a tall defensive lineman from Temple. He is a UDFA rookie this year looking to compete with London.
10. Sam Kamara
Kamara is a UDFA from Stony Brook. He will be competing to get on the practice squad in his rookie season. It would be great to see him back on the list next year, even if he remained this low.