The Chicago Bears’ second preseason game gave the team plenty of chances to track the growth of their rookies. Which rookies made progress, and which ones took steps back?
Kyler Gordon
Kyler Gordon made his career debut this week. He missed a tackle and was beaten inside for one snap in coverage, but the rest of the game was strong. He was in the backfield a few times and showed fluidity in the slot. There was plenty to build on.
Jaquan Brisker
Jaquan Brisker did not play this week. Still, his stock is already at a starter level.
Velus Jones
Velus Jones joined Kyler Gordon in making his debut during week two. Jones did not make any big plays on offense, but he was electric on the opening kick-off, despite putting the ball on the ground. He also had an even more impressive punt return, which brought plenty of excitement.
Braxton Jones
It is pretty obvious that Braxton Jones will be starting week one. He was pulled with Justin Fields and the rest of the starters while Teven Jenkins and Larry Borom played into the second round.
Dominique Robinson
Dominique Robinson has been exciting in his limited reps. His athleticism shows on inside moves, and when he has to bend around the edge. He also has been getting consistent work on special teams.
Zach Thomas
Zach Thomas is locked into the backup left guard job behind Cody Whitehair. He is unlikely to see the field as long as Whitehair is healthy, but could be in the mix to start there next season.
Trestan Ebner
Ebner has shown speed, and receiving ability, and now has one more thing to work on. If he can improve in pass protection, he can be a real threat in the NFL. Right now, teams are going to blitz the Chicago Bears every time he gets on the field.
Doug Kramer
Doug Kramer was placed on the IR, and he is the first rookie to end his season.
Ja’Tyre Carter
Ja’Tyre Carter dropped from the second team to third when Teven Jenkins jumped from right tackle to right guard. Michael Schofield is ahead of him, but he has not shown much to say he should make the roster over Carter.
Elijah Hicks
Elijah Hicks should have locked in a role for himself just by his special team’s presence. The injury status of Dane Cruikshank has also helped him move up the depth chart on defense.
Trenton Gill
Gill was just as exciting as any rookie.