Chicago Bears 53-man roster projection following preseason Week 1

Aug 10, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Austin Booker (94) tackles Buffalo Bills quarterback Shane Buechele (6) during the second half at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 10, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Austin Booker (94) tackles Buffalo Bills quarterback Shane Buechele (6) during the second half at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports / Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports
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Running back (5): D'Andre Swift, Khalil Herbert, Roschon Johnson, Ian Wheeler, Khari Blasingame (FB)

If we're factoring in Saturday2, how could you leave Ian Wheeler off the roster? The UDFA was the game's leading rusher with five carries for 43 yards and two touchdowns. The last RB spot will be between the impressive UDFA and special teams standout Travis Homer.

The Bears could definitely decide to stick with the veteran due to his ability to help out in multiple phases. However, Wheeler made a great first impression and probably has the edge for the final spot as of today.

Wide receiver (6): D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, Keenan Allen, Tyler Scott, Velus Jones Jr., Dante Pettis

The first four receivers are set, but the final two spots are up for grabs. Velus Jones Jr. was used in the run and return games on Saturday and had a nice showing. The veteran Pettis made the most of his opportunity, catching one pass for 34 yards.

Collin Johnson, DeAndre Carter, and Freddie Swain failed to make any plays on offense. Carter has primarily been a returner in his career, but Jones handled kickoffs on Saturday. This group change again next week if the receivers get more opportunities, but for now, Jones and Pettis have a slight edge over the field.