Chicago Bears GM Ryan Pace: Impressions Thus Far
By Erik Lambert
Free Agency
Aug 22, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck is sacked by Chicago Bears linebacker Pernell McPhee (92) at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports
Re-Signed
Jimmy Clausen
Sherrick McManis
Both maneuvers look like solid ones. Clausen has resumed his position as backup to Jay Cutler and played well for most of the preseason. McManis continues his special teams excellence but surprised many with an outstanding showing on defense, earning him the starting nod as the team slot corner.
Signings
Pernell McPhee
Looks every bit the part of the money spent on him. A big, violent outside linebacker with good versatility to stop the run and rush the passer.
Eddie Royal
Quick and agile receiver who knows Jay Cutler from their days in Denver. Ideal fit for their long-underachieving slot receiver job.
Sam Acho
One of the stars of the preseason. A young linebacker who seems to have regained the pass rush skill he lost in Arizona due to injury.
Mason Foster
Inside linebacker who suffered tough scheme changes in Tampa Bay. Seemed to play well in preseason but was cut despite rampant rumors he would start.
Ray McDonald
Experienced 3-4 defensive end who came with a lot of off-the-field baggage. Was immediately cut after being arrested on domestic violence for the third time.
Will Montgomery
Veteran center who is familiar with the coaching staff and scheme. Named the starter from the beginning and has done nothing to lose it.
Antrel Rolle
Former three-time Pro Bowler coming off a successful run in New York. Known for his intelligence, leadership and tackling prowess. Good fit at strong safety, but lingering concerns remain about his diminished speed.
Jarvis Jenkins
Former starter in Washington who never was able to put together a consistently good season. Should fit in well as a primary rotational defensive end.
Jacquizz Rodgers
Undersized running back who vowed he was underused in Atlanta. Has since surprised many by locking up the backup job behind Matt Forte with a strong preseason.
Vladimir Ducasse
Viewed as little more than a camp body when he was signed, the journeyman guard emerged in the preseason and cracked the final roster. Could start with Kyle Long moving to right tackle.
Next: Draft