Complete Chicago Bears 2017 53-man roster predictions
Inside Linebackers
Starters: Jerrell Freeman and Danny Trevathan
Backups: Nick Kwiatkoski, Christian Jones and John Timu
Last offseason, the Ryan Pace and company made it a point to improve the Chicago Bears’ inside linebacker situation. Most notably, the Bears added both Danny Trevathan and Jerrell Freeman in free agency.
Freeman had an absolutely fantastic season in the middle of the Bears defense. He is such a hard-nosed player who is never afraid to stick his nose in the play. Freeman is an elite run defender from the inside linebacker position, showing the toughness to mix it up inside and the range to defend sideline to sideline. He is also strong in pass protection. Make no mistake about it, Freeman is going to be one the best Bears’ defenders again in 2017.
Trevathan did not have as great of a debut season with the Bears. He did not look bad when he was on the field, but the linebacker only played in nine games for Chicago. He suffered an ugly knee injury late in the season and his return for 2017 was in question.
However, Trevathan has healed quicker than expected and has been practicing with his team. While his Week 1 status is not for certain, Trevathan seems like a fair bet to not be placed on PUP.
Nick Kwiatkoski is the first inside linebacker off of the bench for the Bears. He is a quick and rangy linebacker who shows strong coverage skills natural instincts and some pass rush upside. Kwiatkoski could stand to add a bit more weight and power to his game, but he is a talented player who fits the modern game well.
It may seem like overkill, but I also predict Christian Jones and John Timu to make the 53-man roster. Jones has always had a lot of athleticism and upside and he looks much more in control this season. He is a solid backup on the inside and a guy who can take some snaps at outside linebacker as well if needed.
Timu does not have as much natural upside as Jones, but he is a rock solid backup linebacker who will make some noise on special teams. I could certainly see the Chicago Bears making room for him on this roster.