Two defenders who could play for Chicago Bears more than expected in 2021
Fans always see the starters on a team as the first 11 on the field, but one thing we have learned in the evolving NFL is that teams need much more than 11 to field a complete defense. From nickel to dime and back to base, as well as depth on the trenches, a defense will usually rely much closer on 15 starters than 11 when things are said and done.
With that in mind, both Jeremiah Attaochu and Christian Jones are going to see enough playing time that fans had better get used to viewing them as starters.
How Jeremiah Attaochu fits Chicago Bears?
By the end of the season, fans may look back at this signing as a savior of sorts. They also may view Attaochu as one of the top 11 more than a starter by role. We all know that Robert Quinn is coming off of an awful season but we can forgive a bad 2020 in most cases.
However, when thinking of how Sean Desai utilizes his edge rushes fans should not be surprised if they find out that he trusts Attaochu on early downs more than Quinn. The biggest impact is that Attaochu will help the run more efficiently.
Attaochu is also just overall more versatile, which may put Quinn into the role player, and not the other way around.
How Christian Jones fits Chicago Bears?
Christian Jones has been an inside linebacker in the Chicago Bears defense during his last go around, but it is worth noting his role was very versatile in a Matt Patricia defense. As you can see below this is where Christian Jones was typically lining up with the Detroit Lions.
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He is looked at as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 look on defense. Chicago saw that and saw a fit in their defense.
All of a sudden Christian Jones may be less of a backup for Danny Trevathan and more of a player who can step in for Robert Quinn as well.
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It is very unfortunate that Quinn is getting paid what he is, but giving him “starter” snaps when he does not deserve them at this point is a sunk cost. The Chicago Bears are prepared to have no Robert Quinn, as they could easily mix in Jones and Attaochu and have versatility across from Khalil Mack.
Now, they enter 2021 knowing that whatever Quinn gives is a bonus and that is a much better spot to be in.