Chicago Bears: An early, somewhat bold 53-man roster prediction
By Ryan Heckman
1. Offensive Skill Positions
Quarterbacks: Nick Foles, Mitchell Trubisky
To kick things off, we go with the obvious. The Bears will carry two quarterbacks, barring any crazy and unforeseen move. Now, who will win the starting job? My prediction is Nick Foles over Mitchell Trubisky, and I think the Bears are better off for it.
Running Backs: David Montgomery, Tarik Cohen, Cordarrelle Patterson, Ryan Nall
This is where things could get a little interesting. The Bears did not add a running back this offseason, and instead stuck with David Montgomery and Tarik Cohen as their main guys. But, Matt Nagy has said that he wants to get Cordarrelle Patterson involved more as a running back, and I think this could be a way to carry more receivers than normal — potentially listing Patterson as a running back.
Fullback: J.P. Holtz
He might be a tight end, but I think the assumption is that J.P. Holtz will play more of a fullback role this coming season, giving the Bears versatility with the man lead-blocking for Montgomery.
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Wide Receivers: Allen Robinson, Anthony Miller, Riley Ridley, Darnell Mooney, Ted Ginn Jr., Javon Wims
Because Patterson can be considered a running back too, now, it gives them the ability to hold onto Javon Wims. When they signed Ted Ginn Jr., many assumed that Wims could be on the chopping block. But, I believe they hang onto him. He’s shown he can offer a unique skillset as a big, outside wideout.
Tight Ends: Jimmy Graham, Cole Kmet, Demetrius Harris
Jimmy Graham will be the starter, but the Bears’ prized draft pick, Cole Kmet, will see playing time as well. Demetrius Harris will be mostly a blocker, but that’s why the Bears brought him on.