Chicago Bears: 5 players who must not make final roster

Cornerback John Franklin III

Everybody loves a good story. When John Franklin III became one of the centerfolds for Netflix’s documentary series Last Chance U, his name blew up. Many people began to follow his story after the show and, myself included, rooted for the kid to get his shot in the NFL.

That chance came when the Bears brought in the undrafted free agent and decided he would play defensive back. After playing both quarterback and wide receiver in college, this would be Franklin’s third position switch in a matter of three years.

I understand these switches are difficult, especially for such a young player. It is going to take time for Franklin to come around and develop as a corner, but unfortunately for him, that time won’t be spent on the Bears’ roster.

It has been painfully obvious watching Franklin over the preseason that he is not yet anywhere close to an NFL-caliber cornerback. At this point, he wouldn’t even make it onto the Bears’ practice squad.

Franklin should be one of the first and easiest cuts made, and hopefully he goes on to find a new team where his development can continue. The Bears have too much youth at the position and, quite honestly, most are a few steps ahead of Franklin right now.