The Chicago Bears are running full-steam ahead into their clash with the Minnesota Vikings in Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season. It'll be the debut of head coach Ben Johnson, and after months of practices, meetings, preseason games, and several roster cuts, the Bears are ready to roll.
The preseason gave several players the opportunity to step up and showcase what they are capable of. Not everyone was able to make the final roster, but one guy who did was undrafted rookie receiver Jahdae Walker, who has to be the biggest winner of the preseason for Chicago.
Bears Rookie WR Jahdae Walker Stood Out This Preseason
The Bears' WR room has D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III, and Olamide Zaccheaus as their top four targets. Devin Duvernay and Walker are the only two other receivers on the team, but it wouldn't be a surprise if Walker were the fifth guy in the pecking order and could rise with one injury.
This has been an uphill climb for Walker, who signed with Chicago as an undrafted free agent. This preseason, he played in 77 total snaps, recording an impressive 87.9 overall grade and 87.0 receiving grade on Pro Football Focus. Walker reeled in eight passes (11 targets) for 98 receiving yards and two touchdowns. He even caught the game-winning touchdown pass in the preseason win over the Kansas City Chiefs.
Since setting foot in the building, Walker has been someone who immediately stood out to his teammates and coaches. His college teammate Shemar Turner said, "I've never met anyone as energetic, as charismatic as him. What I think he brings to a team is just that love for the sport and then that energy. When he scores a touchdown, you see how the whole sideline goes crazy, just because everybody has his back."
Not only did he have the support of his college teammate, but he got it from 11-year veteran quarterback Case Keenum following an exhibition meeting with the Miami Dolphins.
"I really trust Jahdae in the short time I've gotten to know him... I thought he played really well (against the Dolphins). He's got a great release off the line. Just had to give him a chance."Case Keenum on Jahdae Walker
Considering Walker's reps will be limited in the regular season, he's someone who can quickly elevate on the depth chart. The former Texas A&M product's consistent work and production this summer put him on everyone's radar for the 2025 season.
Bears fans shouldn't be shocked if they see Walker making plays for them this season.