Ranking 13 most likely practice squad candidates on Chicago Bears

Feb 5, 2022; Mobile, AL, USA; National squad tight end Jake Ferguson of Wisconsin (84) celebrates with offensive lineman Ja’Tyre Carter of Southern (65) after scoring a touchdown in the second half against the American squad at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports /

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7. AJ Thomas

AJ Thomas is a UDFA from Western Michigan. His play this offseason has been a revelation and he is a player who has earned his way onto the practice squad. Thomas was tied for third on the team with special teams snaps this preseason.

He is tied with Elijah Hicks and Charles Snowden and behind only Jack Sanborn. In terms of PFF grade, only Sanborn was graded higher. That is what you want to see from your depth because Thomas is going to get most of his NFL chances on special teams.

He also has made a couple of impact tackles on defense. As noted, Elijah Hicks has done well on special teams as well, and he has gotten even more defensive work.

He is going to make the team as the fifth safety, and Thomas is unlikely to make it just because it is hard to justify keeping six safeties. Still, a UDFA rookie who progressed so much with the Chicago Bears is very likely to circle back and spend the season on the practice squad.

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