The Chicago Bears didn’t pull too many surprises during final cutdowns, but there were a few. One of the biggest was when they released veteran pass rusher Terrell Lewis. He’d had a strong training camp by most accounts and coupled that with a standout preseason where he notched three sacks. It felt like he’d done enough to earn a roster spot. However, it appears head coach Matt Eberflus had different plans in mind. That became clear when the team claimed defensive end Khalid Kareem off waivers from the Indianapolis Colts.
Kareem is a former 5th round pick of the Cincinnati Bengals in 2020. He had limited playing opportunities across two years with the team, collecting a sack, seven QB hits, and a forced fumble. Last year, he appeared in four games for Indianapolis but rarely played. The 25-year-old had a solid preseason, too, collecting three sacks, including one to clinch the win against the Bears in Week 2. They also got an extended look at him in joint practices leading up to that game. So why take him over Lewis? Eberflus explained during his latest press conference.
“I saw him play the run well a couple times and also saw his motor. I really liked his motor. It runs hot. He’s a great effort player. He’s very physical. So we like that about him. Excited about developing him in our system.”
Kareem is a classic Matt Eberflus guy.
One thing that has become clear about the Bears head coach is he has a type. He likes his defensive linemen to be big, long, and powerful. Recent additions like DeMarcus Walker and Rasheem Green are two other examples. While rushing the passer is important, so is defending the run. Lewis had a rough 48.9 run defense grade during the preseason for the Bears. Kareem had a far more respectable 78.9. He’s 6’4, 270 lbs, and boasts 34-inch arms. The common take among draft experts was a high-motor player with great upper-body strength. That fits the profile of almost every lineman Eberflus has preferred to work with since becoming a defensive coordinator in 2018.
It’s clear the coach likes guys who give maximum effort and have the necessary strength to mix it up with big offensive linemen. Kareem’s primary issues are a lack of explosiveness and a limited pass rush arsenal. However, his size and power make him a reliable run defender. Don’t forget the Bears were 31st against the run last season. It shouldn’t be a surprise Matt Eberflus is prioritizing that. Kareem also has enough versatility to play both inside and outside. This defensive scheme loves utilizing stunts. He should fit right in.
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