FanPost

Who will break out?

This time of year, everyone is focused on who came and went in free agency, as well as who is getting drafted. But there's another way that a team can improve, which is when the light turns on for a young player, enabling them to ascend from the end of the bench into a contributing role. Who do you think is most likely to take that step for the Bears this year?

Ben Braunecker (TE) - With Daniel Brown out of town, and Adam Shaheen so far failing to live up to the hype, there might be an opportunity for Braunecker to show what he's got.

Deon Bush (S) - Jackson and Clinton-Dix will likely be the starters, but the team is not super invested in Clinton-Dix, so if he misses a few key tackles, Bush could find himself starting before too long.

Rashaad Coward (OL) - It'll take an injury for Coward to see the field, but he looked good last preseason, and guys who tear it up in the preseason always work out in the long run. Right?

Kylie Fitts and Isaiah Irving (OLB) - With Aaron Lynch back in the fold, these guys get pushed a little farther down the depth chart, but a team can never have too many pass rushers. Maybe one of them will show enough to earn a bigger role.

Joel Iyiegbuniwe (LB) - Trevathan and Smith are the starters, but Iggy could pass Kwit as the first sub.

Ryan Nall (RB) - Another guy who tore up the preseason, much has been said about him recently. The RB rotation is totally up in the air, so anybody can earn himself a spot.

Javon Wims (WR) - Has shown some flashes, and receivers often need a little time to develop. There are a lot of bodies in front of him for targets, though.

This Fanpost was written by a Windy City Gridiron member and does not necessarily reflect the ideas or opinions of its staff or community.