The Chicago Bears kick off their preseason against the Buffalo Bills on Saturday, August 10, at 1:00 PM Eastern time. Bears Head Coach Matt Eberflus recently announced that No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams and the rest of the starters will play against the Bills, giving fans their first look at the revamped Bears roster. As the evaluation process continues during the preseason, here are several storylines to keep an eye on.
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Chicago Bears Storylines To Watch During Preseason
How Will the New-Look Bears’ Offensive Line Perform?
Perhaps the biggest storyline for the Bears, the offensive line has been the main subject of criticism this offseason. Bears’ right guard Nate Davis continues to be a disappointing free-agent signing, constantly missing practice. The Bears brought in center Coleman Shelton and traded for guard Ryan Bates to help with the Davis situation. Shelton and Bates have been rotating at the starting center spot during training camp, but with Davis sidelined due to a soft tissue injury, Shelton has remained at center while Bates has stepped in at right guard.
Throughout the preseason, it will be intriguing to see who the Bears ultimately choose to start on the offensive line and when they will announce the permanent starter at center. It’s a meticulous process, but Eberflus understands he wants the best possible situation, especially with a rookie quarterback under center.
“You saw before the break we had [Ryan] Bates at center and now we have Coleman [Shelton] at center and variations at guard. So, that’s really what we’re doing. We’re just trying to find development in terms of those positions and depth and also find the formula for success there in terms of the first game. We’re not there yet. We’re in the middle of camp. Just what we’re doing in regards to that.”
It’ll be evident what changes are needed at the offensive line throughout the preseason and whether the Bears need to seek additional reinforcements.
The Cohesiveness of the Offense
Caleb Williams will, of course, be closely scrutinized throughout the preseason. However, beyond him, the Bears have added several new pieces to their offense, which looks promising on paper. But it’s bigger than just looking the part. The cohesiveness of the offense will be a significant factor in determining if the Bears can make a jump from last season.
In a recent interview with NFL Network’s Stacy Dales, Williams shared his thoughts on what the Bears offense will look like.
“Yeah, we’re going to be explosive. And that doesn’t mean that explosives are drop-back, fifty-yard bombs. Those percentages for, you know, as the higher you get, is going to be a lot tougher. And so there’s going to be a few of those. But explosive-wise, whether it’s screen game, run game, you know, quick game, getting the ball in our guys’ hands and letting them work, and run down the sideline if it’s D.J., Rome and things like that.”
The preseason is the perfect opportunity for the starting offense to refine the small details that will help the offense flow throughout the game.
Who Will Rise to the Occasion and Carve Out a Bigger Role?
While most positions on the Bears roster are already set, players are still battling for backup spots and potentially even a starting role. It’ll be extremely beneficial if second and third-string players could have a solid preseason and carve out a bigger role. Some guys are expected to take on a more prominent role this season, like second-year defensive tackle Gervon Dexter Sr. and veteran defensive end Demarcus Walker. But beyond them, which role player will stand out and make a name for himself? Here are a few candidates to watch.
- WR Tyler Scott
- RB Roschon Johnson
- WR Velus Jones Jr.
- QB Tyson Bagent
- DE Austin Booker
- DT Zacch Pickens
- CB Terell Smith
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