The Chicago Bears have a busy week of football ahead of them. They will hold two joint practices with the Miami Dolphins and then play that same team in the preseason opener at Soldier Fields. Head coaches Matt Nagy and Brian Flores understand the great value of something like this. A chance for two teams to practice against different players. Coaches to work against different coaches.
Whatever it takes to get everybody sharp for the regular season. However, there is an added benefit to this approach. It is a chance for Ryan Pace and his scouts to get a closer look at the full roster of another team. An opportunity to evaluate several players that may not end up making the Dolphins’ final 53 later this month. Perhaps one of them might be a good fit for what the Bears are looking for.
Are there a few names worth keeping an eye out for? Here are ones that Bears fans should monitor closely over the course of the week and when final cuts begin later this month.
Miami Dolphins could have a few noteworthy cuts
Allen Hurns (WR)
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The former Jacksonville Jaguars standout looked ready to become a long-term force after topping 1,000 yards in 2015. Since then, he’s endured a streak of bad luck. Most of them due to health setbacks. Now he caught in a logjam at wide receiver with the Dolphins. Not only did they sign Will Fuller and draft Jaylen Waddle, but veteran Albert Wilson is reportedly having an outstanding camp. Combine that with the continued presence of DeVante Parker? That leaves virtually no room for Hurns. If the Bears are looking for a little more proven experience and somebody who might make Allen Robinson happy? He’d make sense.
Robert Jones (OL)
It’s hardly a secret at this point. The Chicago Bears have issues on their offensive line. Injuries have hit everywhere from tackle to guard. Three starters are out and multiple backups too. This has made the position razor thin with the preseason approaching. So they are almost certain to be eyeing possible help in that area. The recent attempt to claim David Moore off waivers is a perfect example. Robert Jones is an undrafted free agent from Middle Tennessee. One the Bears actually had an interest in prior to signing with the Miami Dolphins. He’s had some nice moments in camp, showcasing his understated power and technique. If the Dolphins try to sneak him onto their practice squad, Pace could pounce.
Javaris Davis (CB)
Finding capable cornerbacks is the new age of defensive football. Pass rushers are important too but it feels like cover corners are much more coveted these days. Davis was a quality player at Auburn with good recognition skills and top-tier speed. So why did he go undrafted? His 5’8 size was likely part of that. Like Hurns, Davis is stuck at a competitive part of the roster. Enough to where he may be tabbed as a practice squad priority. When it comes to talent, the kid has the goods. If the Bears can find some room for him, he could morph into a potential standout in the slot.