Entering Week 2 of the preseason, the Chicago Bears showed good stuff last week in their 24-24 tie against the Miami Dolphins, but some players are feeling the pressure of having to perform well.
Most of the starters didn't play last week, so those in position battles or guys who have had rocky training camps will need the Buffalo Bills game on Sunday to pick up some confidence. The Bears have four players who need to have big time performances to give the fan base something to hold on to before the regular season.
Caleb Williams, QB
This seems like the most obvious choice, but the Bears need a good performance from Williams just to build some momentum going into the regular season. Training camp has been a struggle for the second-year quarterback, but he has also shown flashes of greatness. Now, in a more creative, complex offense like Ben Johnson's, Williams has a chance to show the league he's ready to take the next step in his development.
Braxton Jones, OT
The left tackle position battle has been the most talked about among all things at Bears training camp. Theo Benedet now finds himself in a battle with Braxton Jones and Ozzy Trapilo. Jones had a rough game against the Dolphins last week and needs to prove he can hold his own in the job he had just a season ago.
Zacch Pickens, DL
It was a great redemption story last week for Pickens who has been the subject of many articles saying he's a candidate to be cut at the end of training camp after picking up a sack against Miami. The Bears' defensive line is as deep of a position as any on the roster and Pickens is fighting to find his place. Another strong game could land him with the backups when the regular season rolls around.
Read more: These 4 storylines command Bears fans' attention in preseason game against Bills
Nahshon Wright, CB
Chicago's secondary has taken a beating due to injuries, with Jaylon Johnson, Kyler Gordon, and Zah Frazier, among others, being out during training camp. Nahshon Wright had a stellar performance last week against Miami and will have another opportunity to prove himself. He'll have to battle with Josh Blackwell and Terrel Smith for playing time and/or a roster spot, so nothing is guaranteed for Wright unless he can play well.