Chicago Bears: Depth chart sleepers who could break out in 2019

The Chicago Bears are still looking at options from the outside who might be able to upgrade their roster to a higher level than 2018.

Thus far they’ve made some intriguing additions like Ha Ha Clinton-Dix and Cordarrelle Patterson. However, improvement can’t solely come from free agency or the draft. If the Bears are going to compete for a Super Bowl title, they need bigger contributions from those already on the roster. Not just the stars either. There are a number of role players who could end up seeing more action this season.

A better question is who are some of the names nobody is thinking about that could end up being a surprise come opening day in September? Here are some to watch.

Ryan Nall (RB)

Nobody was probably happier that Jordan Howard was traded than Nall. While the two were teammates, the move by the Bears at least opens the door a little wider for the former undrafted free agent to get an opportunity to play. The big kid had a strong preseason in 2018, rushing for 7.0 yards per carry on 32 touches with a touchdown. He’s been putting in a lot of work this offseason as well. Depending on how things go in the draft, he may get his chance.

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Javon Wims (WR)

Another preseason standout from 2018. Javon Wims was the MVP of August for the Bears. He caught 15 passes for 227 yards and a touchdown across four games, demonstrating his strong mixture of size, quickness, and hands. The Bears didn’t give him much playing time in the regular season, but with both Kevin White and Josh Bellamy gone, the coaches may be looking for somebody to fill that key #4 receiver slot. Wims can be that and even more if he progresses.

Bilal Nichols (DE)

This is the one who really caught people’s attention last season. Nichols was an unknown when he was drafted but in a matter of months began producing at least one splash play in every game he appeared. He finished with three sacks and several tackles for loss. There is excitement around what he might be able to do moving forward. He has the talent to be a starter alongside Akiem Hicks and Eddie Goldman. All he needs is to prove it.

Kylie Fitts (OLB)

Sixth round picks have a much steeper ladder to climb but then again there is a 7th round pick and an undrafted free agent on this list too. Kylie Fitts demonstrated pass rush prowess at Utah and during the preseason for the Bears with 2.5 sacks. Unfortunately he looked overmatched too often whenever he saw the field, leading to concerns about his lack of power. He’ll now have another offseason to improve that. Given how much this defense needs depth in that area, it’s a prime opportunity for him.

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