Chicago Bears Camp Battle: Defensive Back Update

As the preseason has gone on, it has become clear that two and perhaps three roster spots could be open on the backend of the Chicago Bears secondary. After two weeks of playing time, it is always interesting to see how the players are being used because that will tell you what the coaches are looking for.

Last week, we had Michael Joseph in the mix, but he was waived-injured. At the same time, Artie Burns came back and played last week.

This leaves us with Xavier Crawford, Thomas Graham, Tre Roberson, and Burns fighting for a spot at corner, and Marqui Christian, Jalen Tabor, and Jordan Lucas for a place at safety.

Chicago Bears cornerback competition

Burns jumped right into the mix and has seen some of the most snaps on the outside already. The chart below is everyone through two games and Burns through just one. It is worth noting that he is the only one not to shift into the slot of all corners, but that could speak to them wanting to get that long look at him on the outside.

"View post on imgur.com"

Roberson has fewer total snaps than Graham and has consistently been behind Xavier Crawford on the outside. Considering both Graham and Crawford also shift into the slot, it is fair to say Roberson maybe fourth of this group.

Chicago Bears Safety Competition

The chart below shows overall snaps as a safety compared to when they lined up in the slot. Lucas played one snap on special teams Saturday, and that is all. He missed practice Monday with a quad injury.

"View post on imgur.com"

This hurts but earned Tabor valuable snaps, and he now has the most safety snaps. However, Marqui Christian has played more overall; he just shifted into the slot more often. Christian being able to play free safety and slot may go a long way in making the roster.

Overall Playing Time and Special teams

You can say what you want about playing time, performance, and everything else, but these decisions are based on special teams. Below you can see the playing time and special teams breakdown.

"View post on imgur.com"

Again, Burns has more snaps than Roberson on special teams despite playing one fewer game. Burns is closing on graham as well.

Still, based on playing time, it is clear that Tabor, Christian, and Crawford are getting the most chances.

Christian and Crawford both offer versatility. Christian was the backup slot, while Crawford was the backup outside corner. Then, Christian moved to safety while Crawford moved into the slot. Combined with both being used more often on special teams, that can push them over some of these other names. Of course, Burns getting exclusive outside work, performing well, and getting special teams snaps goes a long way as well. Below, we break down the chances of each player based on what we have seen.

1. Marqui Christian 

2. Artie Burns

3. Xavier Crawford 

4. Jalen Tabor

5. Thomas Graham

6. Jordan Lucas 

7. Tre Roberson