Chicago Bears: 5 players breathing sigh of relief after 2021 NFL Draft
By Ryan Heckman
Chicago Bears cornerback Desmond Trufant should feel relieved after the 2021 NFL Draft
The Bears only signed Desmond Trufant to a 1-year deal, so it’s not like they’re all too committed to him in the first place. The issue with Trufant, historically speaking, has been his health. When he’s on the field, he’s been a pretty good player. He’s serviceable. But, he’s missed 17 games over the past two seasons combined.
Chicago is of course committed to Jaylon Johnson as their top cornerback now that Kyle Fuller is gone, but Trufant is a rental. This is a prove-it deal for him. Chicago definitely could have used another corner in this draft, even though they drafted Thomas Graham Jr. late.
Graham could come in and take the slot job away from Duke Shelley because he’s so versatile, but Trufant shouldn’t have much to worry about. His job is safe, and if he puts up a strong season, he may earn himself a long-term deal in Chicago. It would likely be the last long-term deal of his career, as he’s 30 years old right now. So, this is an important season for Trufant.
There was definitely a world where the Bears stayed put at no. 20 overall and took the best player available. That best player available could have been a cornerback, too, as we saw a few go in the first round. Fortunately for Trufant, Chicago didn’t go corner until later on.