Chicago Bears: 4 Players whose stock went up vs. Bills
Chicago Bears Players Whose Stock Rose: Notable Mentions
There were fewer options to add to the notable mention lists this time. The Chicago Bears struggled in so many areas. Khalil Herbert had another decent game, but I don’t believe his stock rose in any way. I believe his status on the depth chart is secured and his playing time will be locked in for the regular season. Therefore he is not included here. These are the only other three that I saw make a big enough impact to warrant mentioning. Leave comments with who I missed.
Caleb Johnson, DL
I already mentioned Caleb Johnson and had Mike Pennel not been placed on injured reserve, then Johnson may have been more than a notable mention. Caleb Johnson recovered both of the Chicago Bears’ forced fumbles. He also added two assists but felt like his presence was everywhere. Johnson might struggle to make the final roster, but it’s possible he is stashed on the Chicago Bears practice squad.
Trevis Gipson, OLB
Trevis Gipson made the notable mentions last week and he does it again this week. This is very promising for the second-year pass rusher. If he was lower on the depth chart, then he could also be pushing to find his way into my top four. Gipson is a lock as a rotational backup to Khalil Mack and Robert Quinn though. Gipson finished with five tackles, a tackle-for-loss and a strip-sack in this one.
Brian Johnson, K
The last, but not least name I believe deserves to be included in the notable mentions is rookie kicker Brian Johnson. A kicker, really? I know, I know. However, do you remember a couple of years ago when the Vikings traded for Kaare Vedvick from the Baltimore Ravens? Vedvick had a great offseason and the Vikings needed help badly. Well, they sent a fifth-round pick for Vedvick. Could the Chicago Bears see a similar return for Johnson?
Johnson is perfect through two preseason games. He made a 44-yard kick and two PATs versus the Dolphins. He then made a 54-yard field goal versus the Bills last Saturday. Could he be stashed on the practice squad should Cairo Santos falter or maybe a trade piece for a late-round pick? Either way, Johnson’s stock has gone up and he’s survived the first round of cuts.