Early Predictions for Chicago Bears’ Key Position Battles
Published by Ben Phillis on May 12, 2013
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears’ strategy this offseason was to acquire players at positions of need, which has left their depth chart crowded and convoluted in places.
Position battles in training camp will definitely be intense.
Chicago upgraded its roster primarily at tight end, offensive line and linebacker this offseason. Not all of their moves will lead to camp competition, though.
Newcomer Martellus Bennett is a clear-cut starter at tight end, and former New Orleans Saint Jermon Bushrod is getting paid too much to sit the bench. ESPN reported his deal is worth $35.9 million over five years. Bennett and Bushrod are the main upgrades for quarterback Jay Cutler, so even if they are pushed this offseason, they won’t be supplanted as starters.
On the side of inactivity, incumbent nickelback Kelvin Hayden seems to have the trust of the Bears front office. No serious challengers were brought in at cornerback; one former undrafted free agent and two rookie undrafted free agents were the only additions.
With those positions set, the battles to watch are at defensive end, outside linebacker, middle linebacker and offensive guard.
Will youth or experience win out at those positions?
