This player might be traded, not released
Conversations around NFL rosters during the July to August timeframe usually focus on the impending cuts. With teams having to shrink their 90-player squads down to a 53-player roster before the regular season begins, an intensive evaluation process must take place during training camp and the preseason. However, remember that this period is not only about cuts but can also be a prime time for beneficial trades. The Chicago Bears are no strangers to this strategy.
In the last season alone, there were 17 trades executed during this window. Frequently, teams pair a player with a 7th round pick to nab a higher pick in the upcoming draft, or they trade away a player who no longer fits their needs in exchange for one who does. A classic example from the Bears' playbook is the 2012 trade where they sent fullback Tyler Clutts to Houston in exchange for backup cornerback Sherrick McManis. Current GM Ryan Poles might be considering a similar strategy, with cornerback Kindle Vildor potentially on the trading block.
Though Vildor, a former 5th round pick, didn't progress as hoped, his 2022 season showed some sparks. He logged an interception and five pass breakups in 11 games. Moreover, the passer rating of quarterbacks targeting him was a significant improvement compared to previous years. Despite his special teams experience, his days in Chicago seem numbered following the draft of Tyrique Stevenson and Terrell Smith, as well as the unexpected performances of undrafted rookies Josh Blackwell and Jaylon Jones last year. The feeling around the team is that Vildor, even for depth, is now superfluous.
However, at just 25, with starting experience under his belt and viewed as a cost-effective depth option with potential, Vildor can still be a valuable asset in a trade. All it takes is identifying the right team. Given the Atlanta Falcons' penchant for collecting former Bears, and Ryan Pace's recent promotion to Director of Player Personnel there - let's not forget that he was the one who drafted Vildor - this could be a straightforward transaction. But ultimately, much depends on how training camp unfolds.
| POLL | ||
3 JUILLET | 72 ANSWERS This player might be traded, not released Should Kindle Vildor be released? | ||
| Yes | 37 | 51.4 % |
| No | 35 | 48.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
