Chicago Bears 2016 Preseason Week 1 Preview
By Erik Lambert
Players Who Most Need A Good Performance:
Ted Larsen (C)
The veteran free agent was signed to compete for one of the interior offensive line positions. Thanks to the knee injury that knocked Hroniss Grasu out for the season, it now appears his best chance lay at center. He made a good first impression during the final training camp practice down in Bourbannais but this will mark his first test against another team. Provided he doesn’t get railroaded by the Broncos there’s reason to think he’ll continue to keep the starting job but he can’t afford to relax.
Christian Jones (OLB)
Even with McPhee out, the Chicago Bears are pretty stacked at outside linebacker. Lamarr Houston, Willie Young and rookie 1st round pick Leonard Floyd are expected to make the roster. That leaves maybe one or two spots left up for grabs. Christian Jones was a failured at inside linebacker last season and so was switched to the outside. The team has liked what they’ve seen so far, but his spot is far from a guarantee. Veteran Sam Acho has looked good as well and he brings special teams value. Jones will either have to show he can produce on defense or is a better option in the third phase.