The Bears' Initial 2023 Regular Season Depth Chart Has Been Released
The buzz around the Bears' depth chart usually peaks as the regular season approaches, and that pivotal moment arrived on Tuesday. The team disclosed their initial roster setup for their 2023 season opener against the Packers, which is set for Sunday at Soldier Field at 3:25 p.m. While many starting roles were already presumed, the latest release clarified some lingering questions.
Lucas Patrick has been designated as the starting center in his second year with the team. Cody Whitehair, once considered a strong contender for the center position, will occupy the role of left guard, which was his primary spot during the 2022 season. Whitehair has been sporting a splint on the pinky finger of his snapping hand but clarified in a Monday press conference that it's a preventive measure against long-term injury.
Nathan Peterman has been slotted in as the backup quarterback to starter Justin Fields for the beginning of the 2023 season. Initially cut in the final round of roster trim-downs, Peterman was promptly re-signed. Tyson Bagent, who made headlines by securing a spot on the 53-man roster during training camp, will serve as the third-string quarterback.
New addition Trent Taylor, who joined the Bears post-preseason, will take on the punt return responsibilities. Velus Jones Jr. and Tyler Scott are listed as the backup punt returners, while Jones will take the lead in kick returns.
As General Manager Ryan Poles and Head Coach Matt Eberflus enter their second year at the helm, there are high hopes that the team can improve upon their NFL-worst 3-14 record from last season.
| POLL | ||
5 SEPTEMBRE | 30 ANSWERS The Bears' Initial 2023 Regular Season Depth Chart Has Been Released Are you satisfied with the first depth chart of the season? | ||
| yes | 20 | 66.7 % |
| No | 10 | 33.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
