As the Chicago Bears head into training camp, the depth chart is beginning to take shape. While a few spots appear locked in, competition will still play a significant role, especially at center.
Drew Dalman
The Bears signed Drew Dalman this offseason as part of a broader effort to upgrade the offensive line. With Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson already added at guard, Dalman was brought in as the final piece to solidify the interior.
Still, questions remain about what Dalman will bring. The Falcons lost him last season and chose not to bring him back, opting to stick with his replacement. Does that suggest Atlanta felt Dalman wasn't worth the investment, or did the Falcons misread the situation? Chicago is betting that a change of scenery and a more stable offensive unit will bring out the best in him.
Doug Kramer
Doug Kramer has logged just 87 career snaps, with only 16 coming at center. Yet he’s expected to enter camp as the primary backup to Dalman. A former seventh-round pick entering his fourth season with the team, Kramer will be competing not only for a roster spot but possibly his long-term future in Chicago.
It’s also worth wondering: if Dalman were to get injured, would the team consider sliding Jonah Jackson or Ryan Bates over to center instead?
Chris Glaser
Chris Glaser signed as an undrafted free agent in 2022 and has played just 84 career snaps—83 of them in 2023. Only 29 of those came at center. He’ll compete for the third-string role and a spot on the practice squad.
Read more: Bears training camp position preview: Rebuilt guard lineup ready to dominate
Ricky Stromberg
This is a battle few fans may be tracking, but Glaser vs. Stromberg for the final center spot could carry practice squad implications. Stromberg, a 2023 third-round pick, spent last season on the Bears’ practice squad. Now entering year two, will that draft pedigree finally show itself in camp?