Chicago Bears: 5 bold predictions for final 2021 roster cuts

5. Chicago Bears Roster Predictions: Bears cut Angelo Blackson

One guy who has consistently stood out for the Bears is veteran defensive end Angelo Blackson, whom they signed from the Arizona Cardinals over the offseason. However, there might not be room for Blackson on the roster when it comes down to it.

Last year, the Bears kept five defensive linemen. That’s something to keep in mind. So, if the Bears keep five again this year, then Blackson could be the odd man out.

Chicago will keep Eddie Goldman, Akiem Hicks and Bilal Nichols for sure. They also re-signed Mario Edwards to a multi-year deal, so the Bears are committed to him. The fifth lineman very well could be rookie seventh-rounder Khyiris Tonga, who has played lights out in his two preseason games and isn’t getting the notoriety he deserves.

Tonga is the key, here. If the Bears don’t keep Tonga on the active roster, then they risk losing him to another team before they can re-sign him to their practice squad. Tonga has made a lasting impression on coaches and fans and brings a rare strength and energy to the line. He must stick on the final roster.

Unless the Bears keep six defensive linemen, that means Blackson has to be the odd man out. Some other team is going to get a starting-caliber defensive lineman, but the Bears won’t be able to keep him around.