Chicago Bears camp battles are shaping the projected 53-man roster as the team prepares for its first padded training camp practice on Monday. As the players enjoy an off day today, let's look at some key position battles Chicago Sun-Times analyst Patrick Finley has projected.
Here, we will focus specifically on quarterback, running back and wide receiver.
According to Finley, the Bears are expected to carry three players at quarterback: starter Caleb Williams, Tyson Bagent and veteran Case Keenum. The competition will be for the No. 2 spot.
"The battle for the No. 2 job between Bagent and Keenum, who have rotated during camp. Bagent has believers in the Bears' front office, and the Bears are sure to keep Keenum to help guide Williams."
Per Finley, the running back group could see an uncommon roster decision if rookie draft pick Kyle Monangai's strong camp convinces the team to carry four running backs.
"With a strong training camp, can Monangai coax the Bears into keeping four running backs? Swift is the starter, Johnson the short yardage back, and Homer the special teams ace," Finley wrote. "Ben Johnson's Lions kept four running backs last season."
The wide receiver battle centers on the kickoff return job, according to Finley. He said,
"Who returns kickoffs? Devin Duvernay and Tyler Scott are fighting for the job, with the winner perhaps cementing their roster spot. The new kickoff rules mean that a successful kick return unit could yield big results."
In the weeks ahead, Ben Johnson and Co. will have a clearer view of who can secure a spot on the team's 53-man roster. Some surprises are expected as the Bears look to begin a new era under their new head coach.