Chicago Bears: 5 biggest hidden gems of this season

GLENDALE, AZ - SEPTEMBER 23: Wide receiver Christian Kirk #13 of the Arizona Cardinals makes a tackle on cornerback Bryce Callahan #37 of the Chicago Bears at State Farm Stadium on September 23, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. The Chicago Bears won 16-14. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images) /

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CHICAGO, IL – SEPTEMBER 17: Pat O’Donnell #16 of the Chicago Bears punts against the Seattle Seahawks at Soldier Field on September 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bears defeated the Seahawks 24-17. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

#4: Pat O’Donnell

Punters never get the attention unless it’s the bad kind these days. Pat O’Donnell was far from perfect his first couple years in Chicago after going in the 6th round back in 2014. Last season though it looked like he was starting to turn the corner. His kicks were smoother, longer and he seemed to be more consistent in where he was trying to aim them.

That has continued so far this season. O’Donnell is averaging 47.2 yards per punt and a net average of 42.9. Both would be career highs if the numbers hold the rest of the season. He also saw seven of his 14 kicks land inside the 20-yard line with only one touchback and seven fair catches. Opponents have averaged just eight yards per return when given a chance to do so.

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