Chicago Bears: Matchups to watch against the Giants
By Usayd Koshul
3. CB Duke Shelley vs. WR Alonzo Russell
Another rookie for the Bears that’s been impressing in training camp, Duke Shelley will get a chance to solidify his spot on the Bears 53-man roster with another strong showing against wide receiver Alonzo Russell.
A big, physical wide receiver, Russell will be an excellent test for Shelley as this is a game where Shelley will get a chance to play in the slot and make a case for being a future starter at some point down the road.
A guy like Alonzo Russell presents a perfect problem for Shelley for a variety of reasons. Since Shelley plays bigger than his size, Russell will look to take advantage of him using his height. However, it is worth noting that Russell has yet to appear in an actual NFL game. He’s either been on the open market or has been part of a team’s practice squad over the last few years.
Since the Bears aren’t expected to play a majority of the starters, Shelley will get a chance to earn valuable reps that will allow him to showcase what he’s learned from players like Kyle Fuller, Prince Amukamara, and Buster Skrine.
Related Story. Chicago Bears: Comparisions lead to unfair Trubisky comparisons. light
Besides just David Montgomery, Shelley is another rookie that could have a major impact for the Bears in 2019. As of right now, he may be buried on the depth chart behind Fuller, Amukamara, and Skrine, however, if he can impress on Friday night, then he’ll earn more playing time in the slot which will go a long way towards him being a starter in 2020.