3 Biggest Surprises From First Week of Bears Training Camp

2. Jacob Martin, EDGE

The Chicago Bears struck gold with their trade last year for Montez Sweat, who provided such a presence off the edge that it changed the entire complexion of the defense over the remainder of the season.

It also changed the projection of the defense for 2024.

Even with the addition of someone as talented as Montez Sweat, however, the Bears needed someone else to step up on the other side of the formation. You need someone who is going to command attention at the other EDGE spot and going into training camp, all the Bears really had were hopes and dreams.

Jacob Martin is a veteran journeyman who has mostly been known for his special teams abilities as an NFL player. Bears defensive coordinator Eric Washignton envisions something a little different for Martin this coming season, noting that the pass rusher has "three-down" abilities and perhaps giving us a glimpse into why the Bears signed him in the first place:

"Great speed and quickness; very athletic. He’s an excellent space player. But he’s really sturdy at the point of attack. Those types of things you really need to have. We can anticipate his role being as a three-down defender. So, so far as a right defensive end, he’s doing a nice job."

- Bears DC Eric Washington

That's pretty high praise for a player who has rarely, if ever at the NFL level, played a full-time role. What he does bring to the table is someone who is going to give high effort on every single snap. He has 18 career sacks and does a really good job of maximizing the opportunities he's given.

And playing opposite Montez Sweat in Chicago, he should be given plenty.