The Infantry: Recapping Bears rookie performances from Week 3 of the preseason

The Chicago Bears managed to pull off a win today, defeating the Tennessee Titans 19-7. And yet, it doesn’t feel as satisfying as a win against a playoff contender should.

Cameron Meredith, whom many expected to be the No. 1 receiver this season, tore his ACL, which will sideline him for the entire season. The likes of Prince Amukamara, Leonard Floyd, Patrick Scales and Dan Skuta all got injured, as well. The starters were out on the field for a lot of the game, and it resulted in a handful of injuries. It also meant that we didn't get to see a whole lot of the rookies.

Mike Glennon ended up playing the entire first half, but Mitch Trubisky got a handful of snaps with the first-team offense. He had another overall good performance today, throwing for 128 yards, one touchdown and completing 10 of his 15 passes. He flashed the same traits that he has throughout the preseason: pocket presence, athleticism, accuracy, an ability to read defenses, and arm strength.

He displayed incredible touch on one play in particular: a 45-yard touchdown to fellow rookie Tanner Gentry. The play was Gentry’s only catch of the day, but the injury to Cameron Meredith increases his chances to make the 53-man roster.

Trubisky came off as polished and experienced going through his progressions. He also picked up nine yards on the ground with a run that showed off his agility and situational awareness.

While the starting quarterback job appears to be Glennon’s to lose, it’s only a matter of time before Trubisky takes it over.

Offensive sparkplug Tarik Cohen didn’t have a whole lot of playing time today: he only got one carry for a gain of five. He also had a kick return for a gain of 22 yards. He has been impressive throughout the preseason, so he didn’t really have much to prove. The Bears used this game to give other backup running backs a chance to shine.

Adam Shaheen continued his underwhelming preseason this week, as he only had one reception for a gain of six yards. He nearly recovered a blocked punt for a touchdown, but he wasn’t able to keep control of the ball in the end zone. It’s apparent that Dion Sims and Zach Miller will likely do most of the work at tight end this season.

Undrafted rookie Josh Rounds continued his unimpressive preseason with a five-carry, 11-yard outing. The odds of him making the roster at this point are pretty much nonexistent. Fullback Freddie Stevenson also had a carry for two yards. It will be interesting to see who wins the battle between him and veteran Michael Burton for a roster spot.

On the other side of the ball, most of the rookies didn’t get playing time until later in the game. Eddie Jackson was an exception to this, as he played with the starters today. He didn’t do much to fill up the stat sheet, as he only had one tackle. However, he had one blown play which allowed Titans rookie receiver Taywan Taylor to have a 48-yard gain.

Regardless, it’s great to see Jackson getting reps with the starters. He might end up in the starting lineup come Week 1.

Undrafted rookie Isaiah Irving racked up a sack for a loss of three. Although he likely won’t make the 53-man roster, he could be a candidate to make the practice squad.