The Chicago Bears linebacker corps should be one of the most interesting groups to watch in the second preseason game. What do we need to see from the room before the preseason finale?
Chicago Bears Linebacker Corps Faces Big Questions in Second Preseason Game
How does TJ Edwards fit next to Devin Bush?
Edwards is slowly coming back from injury, so the team did not play him in the preseason opener. Still, Edwards and new addition Devin Bush have never played with each other and have hardly spent any time in practice next to each other.
How these two fit, and which of the two is on the field when the team only plays one linebacker should be worth watching.Â
When will Keyshaun Elliott and Noah Sewell Return?
Two players who are likely to make the team when healthy are not healthy as the second preseason game is about to take place. Elliott is a rookie fifth-round pick who has not taken a snap at training camp.
Reports out of Chicago were that he would be back in the next week or so, but even if he returns now, he might get one preseason game. Do they continue to hold him on an injured list through the roster numbers crunch on cut-down day?
Sewell tore his Achilles in December. He will likely end up staying on the PUP through the start of the regular season. Does that change?
Can Depth Options Lock Down Spots?
The injuries to Elliott and Sewell might open roster spots for players ready to compete for spots in the second preseason game.Â
Chicago has Bush, Edwards, and D’Marco Jackson. If neither Elliott nor Sewell return in time, the team could see three of Jack Sanborn, Ruben Hyppolite, Jon Rhattigan, and Nephi Sewell make the team. If Elliott returns, only two, and potentially just one, would make the team.Â
Sanborn and Hyppolite are the names to watch. Sanborn was signed this offseason and played 23 snaps on defense as well as 14 snaps on special teams in the first preseason game. Hyppolite looked strong with 44 snaps with 11 on special teams.Â
Rhattigan had 21 snaps on defense and 18 on special teams, while Sewell had 36 on defense and five on special teams.Â
Does the usage vary, and can Rhattigan make a push after a strong debut? Do injuries give the team a chance to solve the room by this week?
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