The Chicago Bears suffered another tough loss today as linebacker Roquan Smith heads to IR with a torn pectoral. It ends a year that easily could’ve gotten him into the Pro Bowl conversation with 101 tackles, two sacks, and an interception in through 12 games. Sadly he won’t be able to finish. That has forced the team to shuffle up their depth chart. They filled Smith’s spot with linebacker Devante Bond, but also made an interesting switch on the practice squad worth noting.
It’s no secret the Bears have some depth concerns at cornerback of late. Sherrick McManis already went on IR with a groin problem. Now Prince Amukamara is dealing with a hamstring issue as well. So it shouldn’t be a surprise the team at least added some fringe depth to the practice squad in case of an emergency. Most of the time it’s just a random no-name people have heard of. In this case though, the guy comes with a bit of notoriety.
Xavier Crawford was actually a 6th round pick of the Houston Texans back in April. A 5’11 corner out of Central Michigan, he performed well at the scouting combine and delivered a strong junior year with 24 tackles, an interception and 12 passes defended. While not one of the top DBs in his draft class, there were some who genuinely liked him.
Chicago Bears might have something if they’re patient
Crawford had an unceremonious welcome to the NFL. Though drafted by the Texans, the team felt they had enough depth in their secondary to warrant cutting him at the end of October. The Miami Dolphins were quick to put in a waiver claim. There he remained for the rest of the month of November, finally being released on the 30th. Thus far he hasn’t gotten much of an opportunity anywhere he’s gone.
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The common belief is Crawford is a good athlete with the ability to play press coverage. He ran a 4.48 in the 40 with a 37.5-inch vertical jump at the scouting combine. The problem critics have is with his size. Not only is the young corner 5’11, which is slightly shorter than ideal for the NFL. He’s also thin at just 187 lbs. Many fear his body can’t hold up against the bigger receivers he’d have to face at the pro level.
That said, his tape shows somebody that can contribute on defense. What he needs is time. Specifically, time to hone his fundamentals and add some weight. If the Bears give him that, they might have something.
