Chicago Bears Stock Report: Draft Class Keeps Shining
By Erik Lambert
The Chicago Bears finally broke through for their first victory of the preseason and they did it in thrilling fashion with a 4th quarter comeback.
This marks the first time they’ve beaten the Denver Broncos in any game since 2009 when Jay Cutler engineered a 27-17 win over his former team. All in all it was a typical preseason game with plenty of good and bad to go around. Mitch Trubisky had some bright moments mixed with one or two he’d like to forget. Tarik Cohen was off most of the night. Adam Shaheen got hurt but Anthony Miller showcased his promise for the first time.
So who were the players that really stood out this week, for good or bad? The third stock report of preseason has a couple surprises on both ends, starting with some major happenings in the defensive front seven.
Up: Roy Robertson-Harris
If there were any lingering questions about who will be the starting defensive end opposite Akiem Hicks and Eddie Goldman, they’ve been put to bed by the preseason Roy Robertson-Harris is having. The third-year man has a sack in every game so far, establishing himself as a constant presence that offensive lines have to account for. His size, length and athleticism pop off the tape more than a few times. The same can’t be said for Jonathan Bullard. It’s Robertson-Harris’ job to lose at this point.
Down: Leonard Floyd
If it’s not one thing, it’s another. The Bears may have made a big mistake throwing all their eggs in the Leonard Floyd basket this year. Already two of his seasons ended on injured reserve and now the outside linebacker is dealing with yet another problem. He had to leave the Denver game with his left hand in a cast. It’s uncertain how severe the injury is, but it’s also a reminder that Floyd’s body just may not be up to handling the rigors of a full NFL season. Consider what else the Bears have at the edge rush position? That’s not good.