Rookie minicamps are the first step in the process of the Chicago Bears to prepare for next season. Unsurprisingly, it will feature their draft choices, including Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze. It will also host all of their undrafted free agents. In addition, 24 rookies will participate on a tryout basis, hoping to secure one of the few remaining roster sports. However, they won’t be alone. Such minicamps are also used by NFL veterans as a chance to get into a training camp. The Bears are reportedly bringing in three notable names for that purpose.
First listed is defensive back Parry Nickerson. The New York Jets selected him in the sixth round in 2018. Since then, he has played for five different teams and logged 30 games of action. He didn’t do much on defense but does have some special teams experience. Next is tight end Tommy Sweeney. He was a 7th round pick by Buffalo in 2019 and served there as a backup for four seasons before spending last year with the New York Giants. He has 18 career catches but is known primarily for his blocking.
Perhaps the most interesting of the trio is wide receiver Freddie Swain. The Seattle Seahawks selected him in the sixth round in 2020. He had a decent year for them in 2021, with 343 yards and four touchdowns, which was Shane Waldron’s first year as offensive coordinator. He also has some experience as a kick returner.
The Chicago Bears still have some roster spots open.
It would not be a shock if they filled them with a handful of these tryouts. They do have depth questions at wide receiver at the moment. Swain may have a decent shot if he has a good performance during practice. There is also a strong probability two or three of the rookie tryouts get a nod as well. Injuries are inevitable in training camp and they need healthy bodies. One thing is for sure. The competitiveness is sure to be as high as it’s been in years, given the talent level on both sides of the ball.
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There is a possibility the Chicago Bears may decide to add another big name free agent. Rumors persist they could try to lure Yannick Ngakoue back for another year. They may also look to find more depth at defensive tackle. Whatever the case, it’s nice to see they don’t have to stay focused on finding big names anymore. They are free to go after depth.
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I surmise that more players, whether rookie or veteran, will be drawn to the new Bears, not as an easy way to make the roster, but as an NFL player on an ascending and soon to be exciting team. Such motivation should increasingly draw better players over time to the Bears.
There is a list on chicagobears.com of 9 undrafted rookie free agents they have signed. But, it appears only one of them is Reddy. 😉
You are quite welcome, sir. I’ve done this at least 6 times over the off-season, and I’ve caught nothing but downvotes for each one. I guess I am ahead of my time.
Google Key and Peele East West bowl. Just did myself, brought tears of laughter to my eyes. Thanks for the bump, @jmscooby.