Chicago Bears: Ranking the top 10 current players on roster

Experience: Second season

Drafted: 2017, first round, 2nd overall by CHI

How did Mitchell Trubisky make it to second overall on this list? Well, let me remind you that this list is based not just on talent, but importance to the team overall. Think of it as an MVP type of ranking.

The second overall pick in last year’s draft is one of the most pivotal pieces to the puzzle in Chicago, and hopefully will be for years to come. Trubisky had, despite popular media belief, a very good rookie season. Let’s take it beyond box scores.

If you look elsewhere for insight on Trubisky’s rookie journey, you would find some fascinating nuggets.

One of the more intriguing stats last year was Trubisky’s success on third and long. In situations with at least six yards to gain on third down, Trubisky had the NFL’s third-highest passer rating per PFF — 107.4.

Take a look at another aspect of his game: Throwing while on the run.

From the moment fans saw him step on the field in the preseason, they knew the kid had something special. Again, it may not show up on the stat sheet just yet; and that can be attributed mainly to coaching discrepancies. But, his skillset is perfect for the direction the league is going.

The absolute best thing about Trubisky, skillset aside, is his leadership abilities. Last year, at different times, his offensive linemen were asked about how he handles the huddle. All of them said that Trubisky owns it — period.

If someone isn’t where they need to be, Trubisky was known to call them out in a hurry. Even as a rookie, he wasn’t afraid to ruffle feathers. The best part is that his linemen love that about him. They know the Bears were in desperate need for that kind of leader, and Trubisky is giving it to them.