The Kevin White Bears era is entering it’s most critical stage now. Opinions on him are not optimistic at this point. Most feel playing just four games in two years thanks to two serious leg injuries has robbed him of his best opportunities to become the possible star Chicago hoped he’d be. It’s little wonder he seemed flustered when asked about it. White knows better than anybody how loud those “bust” chants are getting.
At the same time he still has a job to do. It’s not over yet. There is still time for him to realize his dream and the teams’ expectations of him. Of course staying healthy is critical. He’s never going to get better unless he’s playing actual games. Another setback would all but kill what little momentum he had left.
So that leaves the million dollar question. Does he still have what it takes?
Kevin White Bears renaissance off to decent start
Well the good news is White got out of the first practice injury-free. That is something. Beyond that it was a predictable mixed bag. Some fans were annoyed with him, mostly due to his dropping two passes during team drills. A fact hammered home by Adam Hoge of WGN about the offenses’ inconsistency.
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“The offense dropped too many passes on Day 1. Kevin White had two drops, while rookie running back Tarik Cohen and wide receiver Markus Wheaton each dropped one too.”
At the same time it wasn’t like the day was a total bust. For a man who has played just four games in two calendar years, he more than held his own with some quality catches. He even showcased some of that burst that made him so attractive in the draft. If he can channel that into more improved route running, then the Bears are in business.
Bears receiver Kevin White looking sharp early in drills.
— Robert Zeglinski (@RobertZeglinski) July 27, 2017
Mark Sanchez just hit Kevin White on shallow cross in 11v11. #Bears
— James Fox (@JamesFox917) July 27, 2017
White has made some nice plays as well. Looks explosive & most importantly, healthy. #Bears https://t.co/nKpIAb8uNp
— Aaron Leming (@AaronLemingNFL) July 27, 2017
Kevin White running routes during individual drills: #Bears pic.twitter.com/OLUTMjl8kY
— Mike Berman (@MikeBermanNBC) July 27, 2017
One thing that’s not being mentioned as well is the change in the quarterback situation. No one ever denied Jay Cutler was talented. At the same time they did question his leadership. It never felt like he and White got off on the right foot, on or off the field. In the case of both Mike Glennon and Mitch Trubisky, it’s the complete opposite.
White has spent significant time with both and speaks highly of their attitudes and motivational skill. Their encouragement could be a small but no less key asset in helping his career get back on track.
