Previewing the Chicago Bears defensive line for 2017
A complete preview of the Chicago Bears defensive line for the 2017 season.
The Chicago Bears‘ first preseason game is just around the corner. We at Da Windy City are previewing each and every position for the 2017 season. On Tuesday, we broke down the offensive line to round out the previews on the offensive side of the ball. Today, we are going to be looking at the defensive line.
Recently, I wrote about the Chicago Bears potentially making the playoffs largely because of their defense. I think this defense has gotten a lot better recently and that is mostly thanks to the defensive line. At the defensive end position, you have Akiem Hicks, Jaye Howard, Jonathan Bullard and Mitch Unrein leading the way. Kapron Lewis-Moore, Roy Robertson-Harris, and C.J. Wilson call all provide quality depth.
Defensive end
The Bears have big time depth in this position. Akiem Hicks is a must starter. He dominates games. Mitch Unrein who started last season for the team, looks to me like a player that probably won’t start Week 1. I think Jonathan Bullard, who brings much more upside to the table, will start over him.
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Jaye Howard is a player that the Bears were able to bring in at a discounted price in the off-season and can make a big impact if he stays healthy. Keep an eye on Roy Robertson-Harris. He is an extremely talented player who the Bears really like.
Big guys in the middle
At the nose tackle position, you have Eddie Goldman and John Jenkins. Goldman missed a lot of time last season due to a high ankle sprain. When he is healthy, he is a big boost to the defense, showing elite run stuffing skills from the nose tackle position. If Goldman were to get hurt again, Jenkins is a quality backup nose tackle. Barring any injuries, the defensive line looks pretty good.
The biggest difference from last season to this season is depth. I can see them pressuring the quarterback all game long and also being extremely stout against the run. This line is not yet elite, but there is a lot of potential. The biggest key is health and consistency.
The nose tackle situation is a little bit concerning because the Bears have a lot of confidence in Eddie Goldman, but he has had trouble staying healthy. They need him on the field. Jenkins is a quality backup, but Goldman is a true difference maker.
Next: Players to watch in Bears' first preseason game
This group of linemen can help the defense become a top five group in the league if they stay healthy. As I’ve said before, People are continuing to sleep on this Bears defense. Trust me, opposing offensive lines are not going to enjoy going up against this group.