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Bears' Latest Roster Moves Reveal a Bigger Concern Before Training Camp

Chicago added depth pieces this week, but the lack of impact additions could signal more work remains for Ryan Poles.
ByCasey McAleer|
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Oct 15, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns linebacker Tony Fields II (42) celebrates during the second half against the San Francisco 49ers at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Oct 15, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns linebacker Tony Fields II (42) celebrates during the second half against the San Francisco 49ers at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images | Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

The Chicago Bears have entered their six week hiatus between OTAs and minicamp before everyone is due to report for Training Camp this summer. But that doesn't mean that Ryan Poles and the Bears front office has taken a break, too. As a matter of fact, this serves as some of the time that could be the most critical of the entire offseason. The Bears have made a couple moves on the lower end of the roster, but not enough to make any splashes.

The Bears signed wide receiver Kaden Davis and linebacker Tony Fields II while simultaneously waiving linebacker Dominique Hampton and kicker Gabriel Palencia. This move tracks with the front office's attempts to fill out the gray areas of the depth chart while simultaneously providing veteran depth. Davis (27) has spent time in the USFL and then the UFL, while Fields has only spent time in the UFL. Though both players have spent time on an NFL roster, only Fields had any real impact.

The Bears aren't expecting either player to make a major impact

Fields was drafted in the fifth round where he then signed a four year rookie contract. Following an injury release, he then spent time on the Rams practice squad which is how he ended up in the UFL. After a season there where he made All-UFL honors, he now makes the jump to try to make it back to the NFL. The Bears will need all of the help they can get on the defensive side of the ball. 

Davis, on the other hand, has had a tougher journey. In his whole career, he's only participated in two NFL games, also with the Cleveland Browns. He's listed as a return specialist as well, so perhaps his role may be more on the special teams side of things. This move could provide a bit of competition for new returner Zavion Thomas after the departure of Devin Duvernay to Arizona. 

Ultimately, these moves say more about how the Bears view their current roster than the players themselves. Davis and Fields will have every opportunity to compete this summer, but if either finds a meaningful role by Week 1, it will likely be viewed as an unexpected bonus rather than part of the team's plans. The real work for Ryan Poles and the front office may still be ahead if they want to add impact talent before training camp begins.

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