Chicago Bears: Players to watch against Carolina Panthers

1. CB Duke Shelley

A sixth-round pick in 2019, Duke Shelley is ready to be the next hidden gem for the Bears. So far in training camp, he’s been aggressive and has shown that he has what it takes to be a regular starter in the NFL at some point in the future.

While Shelley isn’t projected to be the Bears starter in week one against the Packers, he’s in the process of learning to be a nickel cornerback. So far in training camp, he’s had his moments but has made it clear that he needs at least a year of development before he can really be a starter.

Preseason will be an opportunity for Shelley to go up against actual opponents in the NFL rather than just facing his teammates in practice each day. Since the Bears hired a defensive coordinator in Chuck Pagano, that has a background in developing defensive backs, Shelley’s development is in good hands for the near future.

On Thursday night, with Panthers starters projected to receive very little playing time, Shelley will likely be tasked with stopping Carolina wide receivers Aldrick Robinson and Terry Godwin. Robinson, who was with the Vikings in 2018 averaged 13.6 yards per reception last year. The 30-year old veteran is likely on his last leg in terms of making an NFL roster, so he’s out to prove he’s got something left in the tank.

Godwin, on the other hand, is a rookie who displays exceptional route-running skills and excellent hands. A seventh-round pick, he’ll quickly look to prove that he can join an ascending wide receiver core that includes second-year man D.J. Moore and third-year man Curtis Samuel.