6 Bears Who Could Be Cut Before Playing a Snap

Football is back. The Chicago Bears and Houston Texans faced off in the 2024 NFL Hall of Fame Game, which was the first preseason contest of the year.

As is often the case with the opener, there wasn't a lot of excitement. We got to see the new NFL kickoff formation in action but it was underwhelming as both offenses regularly started with the ball right around the 25 — which was the norm in 2023 due to a high percentage of kicks resulting in touchbacks. At least Joe Buck was entertaining when trying to explain the rules.

Preseason games are important for younger players trying to make the roster even though less importance is being placed on them in recent years. Teams are putting more stock in joint practices and scrimmages but these games can still be a valuable tool for scouting. It also helps us as we identify six players who might get cut before taking a regular-season snap with the Bears.

6. DeAndre Carter, Wide Receiver/Returner

Speaking of the new kickoff rule, DeAndre Carter is one of the players on the roster trying to take advantage of this new wrinkle. The 5-foot-8, 190-pounder is in his second stint with the Bears, having played for them in 2020.

He's a journeyman who has appeared in regular-season games for six franchises and has been a solid return man. Carter has 2,646 yards and one touchdown on kickoff returns and 1,294 yards on punt returns.

The numbers are impressive but he has a lot of competition in Chicago. Velus Jones and Tyler Scott are ahead of him and Carter didn't get a chance to prove himself on kick returns during their Thursday opener — although he did have one punt return for nine yards.

Carter has talent but the depth around him is too much to overcome.