The preseason is all about the progress of rookies as they adjust to the NFL.
The Chicago Bears not only had a sizable rookie draft class, but it was also the first class under Ben Johnson. How did the rookies look in their second preseason game against the Buffalo Bills after Chicago's 38-0 shutout win?
Colston Loveland Grade: A
Loveland looked the part in his limited time. He only played with the starters, although he played just four of the nine snaps with Caleb Williams. Still, when he was in the game, he was targeted twice. Loveland caught both targets for 26 yards. The first play of the game was a schemed-up touch for Loveland, showing that Johnson has a clear plan for him.
Luther Burden Grade: B+
The only downside of the Burden performance is that he did all of his work with Tyson Bagent and the second-team offense. Olamide Zaccheus had a strong game, so it is hard for Burden to have caught him quite yet. Still, Burden had three catches for 49 yards and looked electric. The Bears are going to need to get him the ball.
Ozzy Trapilo Grade: C
The most significant negative with Trapilo is that he has played himself out of the left tackle competition. What was once thought to be a plan for Trapilo to start at left tackle has now shifted to Trapilo focusing on the backup right tackle job. That may be because he will be the swing tackle this year, but either way, it is an admittance that he has not taken the steps to win a starting job.
Ruben Hyppolite III Grade: C
Hyppolite is clearly still behind Noah Sewell for the SAM role. He subbed in behind T.J. Edwards and looked fine when he played, but it is clear that he is unlikely to play any defensive snaps this season.
Luke Newman Grade: A
Newman started at left guard for Joe Thuney. Then, when the second-string offensive line came onto the field, Newman shifted over to right guard. The fact that the Bears trust him to be the man who played with Caleb Williams says a lot. Being able to play both sides also locks him onto the roster and may be pushing him over Ryan Bates for the sixth lineman.
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