The preseason is a perfect time for end-of-the-roster players to make their last push to make the team. At the very least they can put out tape that keeps them on the practice squad, or get them back into future training camps. One player on the Chicago Bears who is taking advantage is Jerome Carvin.
Chicago Bears fans should keep an eye on Jerome Carvin
Carvin was a UDFA from Tennessee and played for the Kansas City Chiefs last season. He got some work for the Chiefs in the preseason but was let go. The Bears added him to their practice squad late last season and signed him to a futures deal when the season ended.
He entered camp deep down the depth chart but has clearly risen. He started at center over Doug Kramer, despite this being the third year that Kramer is with the Bears. There were people calling for Kramer to start last season. Carvin led the offensive players in snaps with 35.
He not only played center for 24 snaps but slid over to guard for 11 snaps. Overall this is exactly what the Bears need. They have not had quality depth with that type of versatility, which is why they added Ryan Bates and Coleman Shelton this offseason.
Considering those two were bigger additions and neither of them suited up, the chances of Carvin making the roster are not high.
However, the Bears have three more preseason games, and Bates and Shelton will only play so much. There is a good chance that we see Carvin continue to lead the team in snaps, as the Bears give him full second halves of games moving forward.
Carvin could make the practice squad and become a notable depth player. The Bears were so thin at center last season that this has to be a development worth watching.