3 Biggest Surprises From First Week of Bears Training Camp
3. Ian Wheeler, running back
The Chicago Bears have a number of really prominent rookies on the roster. It starts with quarterback Caleb Williams, but the additions of wide receiver Rome Odunze, a possible future starting left tackle in Kiran Amegadjie, as well as All-American punter Tory Taylor give the Bears plenty to look forward to.
This year's draft class for the Bears was relatively small even though it's bound to be impactful, but the Bears may have found some interesting players after the 2024 NFL Draft as well. One of their most interesting undrafted rookies in 2024 is running back Ian Wheeler, a potential factor not only at the running back position but on special teams.
According to Courtney Cronin, Wheeler has been getting some looks with even the 2nd-team offense at Bears training camp:
Bears practice No. 4 notes
— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) July 23, 2024
-Another clean day from the offensive operation. Only one delay of game in 11 on 11. Teven Jenkins said the cadence issues from spring were "ironed out" when he talked yesterday. Darnell Wright concurred just now, noting how strong the communication…
"Ian Wheeler, a UDFA running back from Howard, is FAST. He impressed with his acceleration today in reps with the 2s."
- Courtney Cronin
The Athletic also reported that Wheeler broke off a long run in which Bears running backs coach Chad Morton sprinted after him to celebrate.
It sounds like the Bears could have a gem on their hands in Wheeler, who is an exciting potential option in the return game with his long speed and vision in the open field as well. If he can be a factor in the offense? That's going to be a huge added bonus and certainly will help him make a case for the 53-man roster over the course of the next handful of weeks.
In other Bears news:
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