3 young Chicago Bears players who must step up in 2022
By Ryan Heckman
As it stands, the Chicago Bears are one of the youngest teams in football. Currently, the Bears have 59 players on this roster that are 25 years old or younger.
After the 2022 NFL Draft, it’s more clear than ever: New general manager Ryan Poles is committed to a rebuild, and it’s not happening in one year. He’s doing this the right way, building cornerstones first.
In order for the Bears to take a big leap forward, though, a lot of it is going to be on the shoulders of second-year quarterback Justin Fields. Whether or not he has enough talent around him, Fields will be asked to take a step in his development — and if he’s as good as many of us think he is, he’ll do it regardless.
A new scheme will help Fields and the offense, no doubt. But, the offense isn’t the only side of the ball switching things up. This young roster is in the midst of a gigantic makeover, heading in a new direction.
The Chicago Bears have plenty of youth on their current roster, but a select few will be counted on to step up in 2022.
Between a new offense and the defense switching to a 4-3 front, this Bears team is undergoing a lot of change in one offseason. This is the type of process that requires young players to step into their roles as leaders.
No one expects the Bears to compete for a playoff spot in 2022, but this team is definitely expected to take some steps forward. That might not equate to wins right away, but with so many new faces and newer, moving pieces, the Bears have a lot to put together.
If the Bears are going to put some positivity and hope in the minds of their fan base, they’re going to need some big years out of three key players. These guys could be some of the main reasons why the Bears instill excitement into the fan base once again.