Going into training camp, one favorite topic of discussion among fans is which Chicago Bears undrafted free agent is the most likely to make the roster. Everybody loves an underdog story. People are anxious to see if anybody can be that next rags-to-riches star. Somebody like a Bryce Callahan. He went undrafted in 2015 out of Rice, grabbed hold of the starting nickel cornerback job and turned it into a lucrative payday from the Denver Broncos.
It’s no different in 2020. Nine undrafted rookies are currently present at training camp. When asking around on who is the most likely to stand out, the most popular names remain consistent. Yale guard Dieter Eiselen looks like a mauler if he can learn to handle NFL speed. Defensive tackle Trevon McSwain flashes signs of dominance but hasn’t learned how to keep the motor hot.
Most see running back Artavis Pierce as the likeliest to crack the roster due to his promising production out of Oregon State. However, one name that hasn’t gotten a lot of buzz that probably should? That’s linebacker Rashad Smith. Chris Roling of Bleacher Report singled the Florida Atlantic stand out as somebody who would turn heads once camp started.
“Linebacker isn’t exactly the Chicago Bears’ biggest need entering training camp.
But Rashad Smith isn’t exactly the typical college free agent.
Smith spent all four of his seasons at Florida Atlantic putting on a show, registering 302 total tackles, 31 for loss with 11.5 sacks, six interceptions and seven passes defensed.
A smaller (6’1″) hybrid sort of ‘backer who fits today’s game, Smith shouldn’t have problems standing out if the coaching staff moves him all over the place and plays to his strengths.”
Smith could take advantage of Chicago Bears situation
One thing to remember here is the Bears’ depth at inside linebacker took a big hit. Nick Kwiatkoski left for Las Vegas in free agency and Kevin Pierre-Louis left for Washington. They carried six inside linebackers last season on their depth chart. Right now they’re only projected to carry four. Smith would be the fifth, which would seem to indicate the team likes him more than they’re letting on.
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It isn’t hard to see why. Despite his size restrictions, the kid is athletic and instinctive. He seems to find the football constantly and comes across as a fiery player who embraces a lead-from-the-front mentality. If he can pack on some pounds without losing his speed and quickness? He could have a future in a Bears uniform.