The Chicago Bears' defensive line was deemed the weakness of the unit before the start of training camp. While the team is expected to sit most of its starters for the preseason opener, this is going to give the depth names on the defensive front a strong chance to prove that they belong.
Which players are fighting for a spot in the preseason?
3 Chicago Bears defenseman under significant pressure
Jordan van den Berg
The rookie sixth-round pick might be one of the most interesting names to watch across the entire roster, not just the defensive line. He was an unknown when he was drafted by the Bears, and many projections saw him going undrafted.
To make matters worse, he was hurt to start training camp. However, he returned and immediately started to move up the depth chart. Now, the question is how far he has shot up, and what type of chances he will earn. He is not a roster lock despite his draft status. So, he will need a strong performance in the preseason to ensure the Bears cannot release him.
Daniel Hardy
The edge rusher room is thin, which should give Hardy a great chance to sneak onto the team. Hardy was signed by the team in 2024 and has been a preseason darling in each of the past two seasons. Both preseason runs got him a roster spot. However, he has 85 total snaps in two seasons on the defensive field in the regular season.
Shemar Turner is still hurt, and the team does not have many other options for the fourth edge rusher spot behind Montez Sweat, Dayo Odeyingbo, and Austin Booker. The top three are unlikely to play a lot in the preseason. So, Hardy can lock down a roster spot with another strong summer.
James Lynch
Lynch appears to be the hybrid between the two. He could slide out and play edge snaps on run downs. He can also slide inside and rush the passer on passing downs. So, if either Hardy or van den Berg proves that they should not make the roster, the free-agent signing from the Titans does have a strong chance.
However, he has been quiet in training camp. The question with Lynch is where he aligns and how much of his versatility they highlight. If he is on the field early and moving all around, he will make the team. If he is buried on the depth chart in one spot, he could easily get cut.
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