Chicago Bears roster targets may seem like an odd subject at this point. This team is strong at almost every position and are likely more concerned about making sure they keep as many good players as they can on the final 53. That said, it’s not a perfect group. There are a few notable weak spots that may need addressing in a couple of weeks when all 32 teams across the NFL. This coming Saturday will offer a notable opportunity for evaluation.
It marks the third game of the preseason. This against the Indianapolis Colts, a fellow playoff team from last year. That means the Bears have a good chance to get looks at another talented roster. So who are some possible names Indy may end up cutting loose that might be a bigger help in Chicago?
Chicago Bears roster targets to watch against Indianapolis
Le’Raven Clark (OT)
The Bears suddenly have very real concerns at their reserve offensive tackle spots. Rashaad Coward, the heavy favorite to win the swing tackle job is now nursing an elbow injury suffered against the Giants. This is made all the worse by how poorly fellow reserve Cornelius Lucas has played. Clark is a longtime reserve for the Colts who hasn’t quite achieved his potential after being a 3rd round pick in 2016. However, he has quietly shown steady improvement over the years and is a decent pass blocker with only one pressure allowed this preseason.
Carroll Phillips (OLB)
The Bears have concerns regarding their depth at outside linebacker. They trust Aaron Lynch as the #3 guy but his health history is shaky. Beyond him, it’s nothing but question marks with a mix of unproven veterans (James Vaughters, Isaiah Irving, and Kylie Fitts) and underwhelming rookies (Chuck Harris and Mathieu Betts). Carroll Phillips was signed by Indy this offseason, which is unusual given he doesn’t have ideal size for a 4-3 defensive end. Yet he leads the team with two sacks in preseason. He’s always had pass rush skill and is a far better fit in a 3-4.
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Shakial Taylor (CB)
The Bears appear set at slot cornerback with veteran Buster Skrine and rookie Duke Shelley. Where they need more stability is on the outside. Kyle Fuller and Prince Amukamara are locked. Beyond them though it’s Kevin Toliver, Michael Joseph, and John Franklin. All relatively unreliable options at this point. At 6’0, Taylor has solid size and has done well in coverage so far this preseason. QBs have targeted him five times, completing only one pass for eight yards.
Cole Hedlund (K)
It’s no secret the Bears remain in the hunt for a kicker. Eddy Pineiro is in prime position to claim the job but it’s not a lock just yet. Colts backup Hedlund won’t supplant Adam Vinatieri so he’s kicking for other teams. Thus far he’s done well with 6-of-7 kicks converted successfully. His lone miss was from beyond 50 yards. This is both a good and bad thing. It means he’s reliable from 49 yards and in but also may lack the necessary leg strength to be trusted from long distances.
