Chicago Bears 2022 NFL draft UDFA Profile: C.J. Avery

The Chicago Bears signed C.J. Avery to a UDFA contract after the 2022 NFL draft. Avery is a linebacker from Louisville.

He was originally recruited to play safety for the Cardinals, but early into his college career, he made the switch to safety. Avery was able to get onto the field as a true freshman and became a starter by the end of the season.

Avery wound up leading the Cardinals is tackles for the past three seasons as well. A productive player who was able to get onto the field at a young age is exactly what you should be targeting in undrafted free agency.

Can C.J. Avery make Chicago Bears roster?

Jack Sanborn is the most notable UDFA player the Chicago Bears signed. He was expected to get drafted, and many see him making the Chicago Bears roster. The team is thin at linebacker, and he could slide into a spot.

At the same time, he will be battling with C.J. Avery every step of the way. Below you can see how they compare athletically. 

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Overall they are about the same type of athlete. It is clear that the Chicago Bears want to fill a role with a certain type of player, and these two fit what they are looking for. With that in mind, this will likely be a two-dog, one-bone situation where both of them come into training camp knowing that they have a better shot at making the roster than most UDFAs.

Whoever shines brighter between Sanborn and Avery may come away with a roster spot. It will likely come down to special teams, so it will be interesting to see how the two long-time starters adjust to the new role.

Either way, Avery has to feel good about signing to a team with such a depleted depth chart at linebacker. It certainly adds to the chances that this productive downhill player can stick around.