The Chicago Bears have been able to find some hidden gems who make an impact on special teams and hang around for a long time because of it.
One great example is cornerback Josh Blackwell, who hasn't played much defense but has more on special teams. The Bears felt his impact this season when he got the game-winning block in the Week 4 win over the Las Vegas Raiders.
While the Bears fan base has not focused as much on special teams, there is one guy who has recently returned from injury who will only enhance the play of the unit: running back Travis Homer.
What kind of impact does Homer have on the Bears ?
Homer started the season on IR after hurting his calf in preseason, but returned to the field for the first time in the Bears' 26-14 win over the New Orleans Saints. While he didn't help on offense, he made a tackle on special teams and played all 16 snaps with the special teams.
Throughout Homer's three years with the Bears, he has done it all, from being a kickoff returner to running the football on offense when needed. He's also stellar on kickoff returns, posting 14 tackles in his three seasons, including this year with the Bears.
His special teams coordinator, Richard Hightower, was certainly happy to have one of his top players back from injury. Hightower spoke highly of Homer to the media, praising his impact on the team.
“I could sit up here and talk about Travis Homer all day, but he’s a guy you don’t know the value of if you’re not around him every day.”
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With special teams so underrated in today's game, the Bears know firsthand how important a good unit is. Homer is a key player in ensuring their special teams coverage doesn't lose focus.