6 Bears Who Won't Survive the Preseason

2. Travis Homer, Running Back/Special Teams

Things may not be looking up for Bears backup running back and special teams ace Travis Homer. Homer hasn't played much running back in recent years other than in the preseason, and we did see him get some carries in this game against the Buffalo Bills. He carried the ball four times for a respectable 15 yards but wasn't targeted in the passing game.

The unfortunate reality for Travis Homer right now is that he was outshined in the running game by both Ian Wheeler -- one of Chicago's most exciting rookie free agents in 2024 -- and wide receiver/return man/running back/offensive weapon Velus Jones Jr.

The Bears' decision to try Velus Jones Jr. in a Cordarrelle Patterson type of role offensively could ultimately spell the end for someone like Travis Homer, as Jones also provides value in the return game.

Wheeler was pretty sensational against the Bills, running the ball five times for 43 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Jones was also impressive in his touches, carrying the ball six times for 34 yards and a touchdown.

It will be really tough for a guy who plays only special teams -- Homer -- to crack the Bears' 53-man roster. At least, you would think so. This may not mean anything, but Homer was also out there at the kickoff as a game captain.

He's clearly well thought of in this locker room and among the coaching staff, but when you have guys running as well as Jones and Wheeler, how do you justify keeping Homer around?

Unless it doesn't cost the Bears one of those other guys, Homer might not be around much longer.