Chicago Bears: 4 players who deserve to make the roster

Ian Bunting

At the start of training camp, many eyes were focused on Dax Raymond, the tight end out of Utah State, who was featured on the Bears “Meet the Rookies” series. And for good reason. Raymond is an extremely athletic tight end who demonstrated above-average pass-catching skills in college.

However, the tight end who caught the attention of the offensive coordinator — at least coming out of organized team activities — was Ian Bunting via the California Golden Bears. Beyond impressing offensive coordinator Mark Helfrich, Bunting has flashed while on the field this preseason.

During the first game against the Carolina Panthers, Bunting finished with three catches for 77 yards (which led the team). He did have a fumble, but overall showed what he can add to the passing game. While he didn’t record a reception in the second game, in fairness, no one really got going in the passing game.

Nevertheless, Bunting can provide the threat over the middle and down the seam that Nagy likes to see from his tight end. With all of the injury uncertainty around Trey Burton and Adam Shaheen, along with Bradley Sowell trying to adjust to a new position, the Bears would be wise to keep another capable tight end on the roster, considering how important the position is to Nagy’s offense.