The Chicago Bears draft class will have plenty of attention during training camp, but there are also a few undrafted free agents who could push to make the roster. One of the more interesting names is Oregon State safety Skyler Thomas, whom Gary Davenport of Bleacher Report listed as one of the rookie UDFAs most likely to make the team.
Chicago Bears rookie UDFA Skyler Thomas is competing to make the roster
Thomas went undrafted, but he still brings an intriguing skill set to the Bears secondary because of his size and versatility. His scouting report points to him being a bigger safety who is comfortable playing closer to the line of scrimmage and matching up with tight ends. That type of role could end up being useful for the Bears defense.
When looking at the safety depth chart, Dillon Thieneman and Coby Bryant are expected to handle the starting roles, but the depth behind them is still unsettled entering training camp.
Cam Lewis is listed as the third safety on many early depth charts, but he has played a versatile role throughout his career. He has experience in the slot as well as at safety and projects more as a movable defensive back than a traditional full-time safety.
The Bears also have Elijah Hicks, who has managed to stick around the roster despite entering the league as a late-round pick. Hicks has provided value on special teams and has been able to fill in defensively when needed, but he has never fully established himself as a long-term starting option in the secondary.
There is also the long-term factor to consider with Hicks. He is entering the final year of his contract, and if the Bears do not believe he is progressing into a bigger role, they may eventually look toward younger options at the position. That creates an opportunity for someone such as Thomas to work his way into the mix.
As of now, Thomas appears to be competing most directly with Gervarrius Owens and Anthony Johnson for one of the final safety spots on the roster. Owens spent last season on the practice squad, so he already has familiarity with the defense and coaching staff. Johnson also brings NFL experience and joined the roster more recently, which gives him a chance to compete as well.
Because of that, Thomas still faces an uphill climb to make the final roster. However, the lack of established depth behind the starters gives him a realistic chance to stand out during camp and the preseason.
It will be interesting to see where Thomas fits once training camp begins and how quickly he can push himself into the conversation for a roster spot.
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