Chicago Bears: 5 takeaways after week one of training camp
Fitts filling a huge need
As I alluded to previously, the Bears’ pass rush is thin, to say the least. Outside of Leonard Floyd, who is also coming off a significant injury, they simply don’t have an edge rusher who is expected to contribute a ton.
The Bears had hoped Lynch would provide some help, but based on his history, it would be unwise to expect a major contribution from him. Besides, as I mentioned, he is having trouble staying healthy.
Today, #Bears coach Matt Nagy named rookie OLB Kylie Fitts as a player who has stood to him on defense. He has been very noticeable in all drills. Coverage responsibilities might take time, but he can get low and get around the edge.
— Adam Jahns (@adamjahns) July 24, 2018
In potentially steps sixth-round draft pick Kylie Fitts out of Utah. The 6-foot-4 edge rusher has never been short on talent or potential but has struggled with some injuries of his own. However, it appears that he might finally be getting healthy and is showing off what he can do for Vic Fangio’s defense. He’s even impressed Nagy in terms of what he’s been able to do as a rusher.
The Bears defense was top-ten in the league last year and is certainly a playoff-caliber unit. If Floyd can stay healthy and produce, and Fitts gives them a second option off the edge, this defense can become elite. In fact, if that were to pan out, it could be talented enough to carry the team to the playoffs.
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Obviously, that is a lot to put on a sixth-round pick’s shoulders. So far though, Fitts has shown he may be ahead of schedule in terms of expectations.