The Chicago Bears have to be happy with the state of their undrafted free agent group through the early parts of training camp. Wide receiver Aron Cruickshank got things started with a highlight-reel catch during the first week. Safety Bralen Trahan showcased his ball skills with a pair of interceptions during one practice, including one of Justin Fields. Defensive end D’Anthony Jones might be the biggest story, as he’s provided constant pressure on quarterbacks throughout every practice. All three have built some momentum going into the preseason opener against the Tennessee Titans.
Now a fourth has joined the action. Adam Jahns of The Athletic and others were present to see a breakout day for linebacker Micah Baskerville. Chicago got him after a productive career at LSU.
“Someone to keep an eye on Saturday afternoon? Linebacker Micah Baskerville had two interceptions on Wednesday. One he returned for a touchdown, the other came on a batted ball to tight end Stephen Carlson in the end zone.”
Baskerville has the athleticism and instincts the Bears like in their linebackers. The reason he went undrafted stems from the fact he’s 6’1 and 224 lbs. He also turns 24 years old in October. Teams don’t like investing draft picks in older, undersized prospects. Yet when watching him in college, it’s not hard to imagine he could be a nice fit for this team.
The Chicago Bears have some tough decisions at linebacker.
It might suddenly be one of their most stacked positions on the roster. Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards are both starters. Jack Sanborn holds the third spot, but he’s being pushed by 5th round pick Noah Sewell. Both will make the roster regardless. That’s four slots in place. The Bears carried six linebackers last season, leaving two remaining. Special teams ace Dylan Cole figures to get one of them. That means Baskerville is battling former USFL standout DeMarquis Gates for the final spot.
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Gates was a credible backup last season who contributed on special teams as well. That gives him an early edge in any competition. Baskerville will have to make some plays in both areas if he wants to convince the Chicago Bears coaching staff he’s worth the risk. One thing is for sure. His great practice on Wednesday caught their attention. If he can build on that going into Saturday, it might be the momentum he’ll need to crack the final 53 at the end of August.
