Every training camp has a cool story each year for the Chicago Bears. Easily the best of 2025 belongs to Jahdae Walker. Most people weren’t familiar with the wide receiver out of Texas A&M. He’d had a decent college career but never stood out as anything special. Still, the Bears liked his mix of size and speed enough to sign him as an undrafted free agent. He worked his way into the spotlight with strong practices, followed by a nice touchdown catch in the preseason opener against Miami.
However, his crowning moment came two weeks later. Trailing 27-22 with under two minutes left, the Bears needed an 87-yard drive to win. Walker provided the first spark with a beautiful toe-tap catch along the sideline. Then, a few plays later, he caught the go-ahead touchdown in tight coverage. Last but not least, he made the tackle on the ensuing kickoff to preserve the win. It was an incredible performance, preseason or not. Most believe that is what cemented his spot on the roster.
However, Adam Jahns of CHGO provided some interesting details. It seems the Bears were given little choice on the matter. There is a strong possibility Walker would’ve been claimed on waivers if he’d been released.
The Bears wouldn’t let Jahdae Walker go after all he’d done.
Over the past few years, this organization has really gone out of its way to reward undrafted rookies who have made strong impressions. Tyson Bagent was one such example. Theo Benedet and Carl Jones Jr. are two other recent ones. If you put in the work and show it on the field, there is a place for you on this team. It probably won’t lead to big things down the line, but it could. Smart organizations always leave that door open. Where would Philadelphia be right now without the major contributions of Reed Blankenship, an undrafted safety in 2022 who had four interceptions last year? The Bears believe Jahdae Walker has something to offer. His talent is there. As is often the case with undrafted players, it is about whether he can master the details of his position.
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