As the last practice open to the public begins, the new-look Chicago Bears continue preparations for their first preseason game Saturday vs. the Tennessee Titans. Game time is set for Noon at Soldier Field.
Head coach Matt Eberflus announced in Wednesday’s press conference Justin Fields will start. Most starters will see limited action. Saturday will give us a chance to see a lot of players in action, with many seeing their first live-action in an NFL game. If you weren’t lucky enough to attend any of the workouts in Lake Forest or the Family Fest in Chicago, this will be your first time to see them.
Here are ten players to keep an eye on when the Bears play the Titans.
Darnell Wright
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Ryan Poles invested a number one pick on Wright and hope he found an anchor at right tackle to protect Justin Fields. Brian Baldinger from NFL Network calls Wright the “best offensive tackle in this year’s draft.” Wright has stepped into the starting spot from day one.
Tyrique Stevenson
Stevenson was selected 56th overall in round two and has been impressive since day one. His ball-hawking skills and tight coverage has been on display throughout camp. His selection allows Tyler Gordon to slide into the nickel position. The Bears now have a young, fierce, and aggressive backfield.
Terrell Smith
Smith has been a steal from this year’s draft. He is battling Stevenson for the starting CB spot opposite Jaylon Johnson. There is little doubt the secondary is one of the deeper position groups on the team.
D’Anthony Jones
Jones is one of several undrafted rookies that have impressed during camp. A defensive lineman from the University of Houston is constantly wreaking havoc in the offensive backfield. Despite the signing of edge rusher Yannick Ngakour, the Bears need other linemen to pressure the quarterback.
Tyler Scott
The rookie WR has produced highlight-reel receptions in camp but has had his share of dropped passes. Chase Claypool probably doesn’t see the field Saturday after tweaking his hamstring in Wednesday’s practice. Moore and Darnell Mooney are likely to see limited action. A good showing will certainly add to his chances of nailing down the 4th WR spot.
Velus Jones Jr.
Jones has impressed special teams coordinator Richard Hightower this summer. He is listed as the first-string punt and kickoff returner. He is also listed as the second-string WR behind D J Moore. Jones’ struggles last year were well documented.
Noah Sewell
The rookie LB gained valuable reps with the first-string defense while Jack Sanborn was being eased back into the lineup. Sewell held his own, making several splash plays.
Alex Leatherwood
Leatherwood needs a good showing. The former first-round pick from a year ago battled illness and inconsistency after he joined the team last year. Teven Jenkins and Nate Davis have both missed time with nagging injuries, and having quality depth along the OL is essential.
Dominique Robinson
After an impressive camp last year, hopes were high on Robinson. He followed that up with 1.5 sacks in last year’s season opener against San Francisco. Robinson had a limited arsenal of moves to shed blockers last year, but he has worked to improve all phases of his game.
Terrell Lewis
Terrell Lewis was a late-season addition to the Bears last year after three seasons with the Los Angeles Rams. Lewis has been noticeable all summer.
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