Chicago Bears: Projected 53-man roster following 2019 NFL Draft
By Ryan Heckman
Linebackers/Edge
Khalil Mack
Headlining a group that seems to have grown exponentially in depth over the last year or two, Khalil Mack enters 2019 ready for more, following a phenomenal 2018 campaign. This group of linebackers and edge rushers is one of the best in the NFL, and it can be largely attributed to Mack’s overwhelming presence.
Roquan Smith
Mack may be the most notable name of the group, but the rest are also Pro Bowl players — watch out NFC North. Roquan Smith quickly became one of the best inside linebackers in all of football, last year as a rookie. He led the team in tackles and proved why he was worthy of being the no. 8 overall selection.
Danny Trevathan
He is as consistent as it gets in the middle, and has become one of the best free agent signings of the last decade. Danny Trevathan is a pro’s pro and is still one of the top-tier inside linebackers in all of football. It’s scary that he may be the third-best linebacker on the team.
Leonard Floyd
Fresh off the Bears picking up his fifth-year option, Leonard Floyd has to feel as confident as ever. The former first-rounder blossomed in 2018 and we’ll see exactly where his ceiling lies this coming season.
Nick Kwiatkoski
He will likely be signed elsewhere next season, but for his last year with the Bears, Nick Kwiatkoski remains one of the very best backup linebackers in all of football. He’s become valuable both on special teams and on defense, in case of injury.
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Joel Iyiegbuniwe
Last year, not many knew what Ryan Pace was doing when he drafted Joel Iyiegbuniwe. Mostly, fans were unfamiliar with him. But, he seemed to find a role on special teams and his athleticism is apparent. He’ll look to continue contributing in the third phase this coming season.
Aaron Lynch
The Bears were smart to bring back Aaron Lynch as another key depth piece. Their pass rush needs to stay healthy and strong all year, and Lynch was a big part of that group last year.
Chuck Harris
Yes, another undrafted free agent makes the squad. This time, it’s Mack’s fellow Buffalo product Chuck Harris. Watch out for this kid over the course of the summer. He won’t go easy, and I think his fight will carry him to the 52-man roster.