ClutchPoints
The Chicago Bears loaded up on offensive linemen and weapons for quarterback Caleb Williams to get the ball to in the offseason. Now, with the addition of Ben Johnson as their coach, Chicago is expected to take a massive leap forward. They could even be one of the surprise contenders in the NFL this season. With cut-down day looming, who will make the Bears’ 53-man roster?
Caleb Williams, Tyson Bagent, Case Keenum
Williams was drafted first overall in 2024 as one of the most-hyped prospects in league history. His first year was actually somewhat of a disappointment as the USC product didn’t burst onto the scene as expected.
Williams was often sacked and held onto the ball for too long. The scrambling magic he was able to make in college was harder to pull off at the professional level, and the Bears lost way too many close games. Rookie struggles are not unusual, though, and Williams could very well develop to elite status in year two.
If anything, Williams’ rookie season was given too much hate. His 3,541 passing yards were the fifth most in a single season in Bears history, and he only threw six interceptions over the course of the season. Expect more big plays from Williams this season with Chicago’s improved offensive line and receiving corps.
Williams will be backed up by Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum. Bagent had some moments as a starter in 2023, and Keenum is the steady veteran presence.
D’Andre Swift, Roschon Johnson, Kyle Monangai, Ian Wheeler
Roschon Johnson was expected to challenge D’Andre Swift for the starting running back position last season. Instead, he only rushed for 150 yards, and considering he has been hurt during training camp, he is firmly on the roster bubble. Kyle Monangai was a seventh-round draft pick this year, and Ian Wheeler earned a roster spot with a two-score game in the preseason blowout against the Buffalo Bills. Travis Homer is a great special teamer, but he just narrowly misses the cut here.
Rome Odunze, D.J. Moore, Luther Burden III, Olamide Zaccheaus, Devin Duvernay, Tyler Scott
In addition to an improved offensive line, Williams should have a better second season because he has even more pass catchers to target. Last year, the Bears were expected to have an elite receiving corps because they brought in Keenan Allen, but the legendary route runner looked well past his prime. He is now back with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Allen has been replaced by Luther Burden III and Olamide Zaccheaus. Burden is a physical receiver in the mold of A.J. Brown who can really thrive with the ball in his hands. Ex-Washington Commander Zaccheaus is a slot receiver who helped Jayden Daniels thrive during his rookie season.
The top-two options will be Rome Odunze and D.J. Moore. Like Williams, Odunze wasn’t as dominant as a rookie after he was also drafted in the first round. He showed flashes, though, and...
