Under the radar players who could surprise during training camp
While some teams have started their preseason training camps, the Chicago Bears will start on the 25th of July. While we are all excited to see what Justin Fields looks like or how the offensive line holds up, other positions and players should get attention as well. Here are some players you should keep an eye out for.
Thomas Graham Jr.
Graham showed promise in a very limited role as a rookie in 2021. His good play makes the slot cornerback position a competition between him and veteran Tavon Young. Graham has shown plenty of promise but in a very small sample size which makes people question if he can keep that level play with a bigger role. Young appears to be the favorite to start in the slot as he is much more proven than the second-year cornerback. A strong performance in camp and preseason could land Graham some decent playing time when the regular season rolls around.
Jack Sanborn
Many were shocked when linebacker Jack Sanborn wasn't drafted. The Bears landed the top undrafted rookie free agent with the idea to add some very decent depth behind Roquan Smith and Nicholas Morrow. Although going undrafted, Sanborn has a chance to lock down a roster spot with hopes of developing into a solid linebacker down the line. At Wisconsin, he thrived in the backfield with 16 tackles-for-loss and five sacks last year. He'll have a chance to stand out once the pads come on.
Mike Pennel
The Bears' interior defensive linemen group has undergone a massive overhaul this offseason as they convert to a 4-3 defense. As of now, Justin Jones and Khyiris Tonga are projected as the starters at three-technique and nose tackle, respectively. But Tonga could face some competition for that job from Mike Pennel, who makes his return to Chicago. Last summer, Pennel landed on injured reserve and was cut soon after. This time, he'll be looking to earn a roster spot and starting job.
