The excitement knows no bounds at Chicago Bears training camp.
This is officially the year where everything changes. The tide is shifting. Caleb Williams' arrival is just one of the many reasons why people are starting to believe in these Bears, but he's certainly the main reason.
Chicago has a ton of talent across this roster, starting with Williams of course, as the most-talked-about name, but on both sides, Ryan Poles has done a phenomenal job. This team is not only headed in "the right direction," but this is an organization that is all but guaranteed to be headed for winning seasons, at this point.
Of course, they have to show it on the field, and that's what dozens upon dozens of Bears have been doing at training camp as of late. Unfortunately, many of them will wind up being cut.
Which of them aren't likely to make the final roster? We identify just a handful, for now.
Chicago Bears players who won't make the final roster
Austin Reed, QB
The story of Austin Reed being signed and all of the promise that came with him after going undrafted was a fun one, for fans. But, the reality is, Tyson Bagent is the Bears' backup to Caleb Williams, period. Brett Rypien could be a practice squad candidate, as could Reed, actually. But, as far as a roster spot? Reed isn't making it.
Ian Wheeler, RB
The Bears' running back room is another one that's figured out. With D'Andre Swift, Roschon Johnson and Khalil Herbert, the team has three capable backs. Travis Homer may make the roster out of special teams purposes, as well. But, that won't leave Ian Wheeler much room to work with. Not to mention, he did just sustain an injury a few days ago.
Dante Pettis, WR
Going into training camp, maybe the final receiver spot was one you could potentially argue. But, now, it is pretty safe to assume the top six: D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen, Rome Odunze, Tyler Scott, Velus Jones Jr. and Deandre Carter. Pettis could be a practice squad candidate, when it is all said and done.
Stephen Carlson, TE
Many times when a team signs a player just before July, that player doesn't end up making the team. In Marcedes Lewis' case, though, we knew. Lewis would be the Bears' third tight end, pushing Stephen Carlson back and not giving him much of a chance to make the final roster. Lewis is too valuable a blocker and locker room presence.
Micah Baskerville, LB
When you have the luxury of finding an LSU defender in the undrafted pool, a team tries to take advantage. While Micah Baskerville has had his moments, he's more of a special teams guy at most, and the Bears are pretty deep at linebacker. Hopefully, he's back on the practice squad.
Michael Dwumfour, NT
The Bears won't need to keep three nose tackles, thus they'll ride with Andrew Billings and Zacch Pickens. Michael Dwumfour is too buried on the depth chart to warrant a chance at sticking around. Once again, he'll be another practice squad candidate.
Quindell Johnson, S
The Bears' four safeties are pretty much set with Kevin Byard, Jaquan Brisker, Elijah Hicks and Jonathan Owens. The veteran, Quindell Johnson, was brought in more so for depth and to have another body in camp. That label isn't a nice one, but it's the truth.