Most people tend to gloss over the Chicago Bears undrafted free agent signing period. It doesn’t come with the same glitz and glamor of the draft so they automatically feel it’s not worth their time. This despite constant evidence that it is. There are so many successful undrafted free agents in the NFL today to confirm this.
GM Ryan Pace has demonstrated a knack for finding talent in low places. Cameron Meredith and Bryce Callahan are two recent names that support this. Sure, the bulk of the signings probably won’t amount to much but there are always names in the mix who offer intrigue. Something to latch onto that may blossom with time and opportunity.
Even with the draft, the Bears had several roster spots still open. It was clear they planned to be aggressive this year on the undrafted market. Already they’ve signed 13 names and more are likely to follow. However, to save everybody the trouble, here are the players that you absolutely want to remember for this fall.
Notable Chicago Bears undrafted free agents
Kevin Toliver (CB, LSU)
In terms of pure physical talent, this is the best signing the Bears are likely to make. A five-star recruit out of high school, Toliver was projected to go in the 1st round at times last year. He’s 6’2″ with solid speed and the kind of fluidity NFL corners often display in coverage. He had an interception, a sack, a forced fumble and 10 passes defended in 2017 for LSU. So why wasn’t he drafted? There are whispers of an attitude problem. He’s immature, self-entitled and been suspended. Combined with a shoulder issue, teams weren’t willing to take the risk.
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Michael Joseph (CB, Dubuque)
An Illinois native, Joseph had to walk on after struggling in his high school career. He had so much athletic ability and a 6’1″ frame that the coaches at Dubuque took a chance on him. He rewarded their faith. Over his last two years as a starter, he delivered 12 interceptions. The athletic and instinctive traits are there. His biggest issues are technique and fundamental-related. Two issues that can be solved with good coaching.
Nick Orr (S, TCU)
Smaller defensive backs always get a raw deal come draft time, especially at the safety position. Being 5’10” and 187 lbs? Teams are going to balk at that. Given the way players at that position have to hit, it feels like a one-way ticket to injury problems. Yet Orr has made it difficult to ignore him. He didn’t miss a game in three years as a starter for TCU, collected eight interceptions, 20 pass defenses, a sack and forced two fumbles.
Shoutout to my brother @_nickorr_ he got NOW ‼️ ON ME ! #Orrboys pic.twitter.com/m1tU3eVFm2
— Chris Orr (@Chris_Guwap) January 28, 2018
Elijah Norris (EDGE, Shepherd)
The Bears sorely need more options at edge rusher. Elijah Norris may not look like a hidden gem at first glance but there are certain traits that stand out. He has good strength, a well-proportioned frame, moves well for his size and showcases long arms that he can use to stack and shed blockers. He had 6.5 sacks his final year along with three passes defended and an interception.
Dejon Allen (OL, Hawaii)
Hiring Harry Hiestand was crucial for the Bears. His presence makes signings like this something to get excited about. Dejon Allen is only 6’3″, 290. It’s unlikely he stays at tackle. That said this kid is an athlete with attitude. He shows an impressive knack for getting a good position with his feet, turning defenders away from the play and then finishing to the whistle. Bigger competition like UCLA didn’t phase him at all. He’s a perfect fit for the new Bears offense.
Hawaii OL Dejon Allen will participate in the East West Shrine Game. LT here. Punch is outside, adjusts, controls and finishes. #NorrisNotes pic.twitter.com/kDpvFH86Za
— Josh Norris (@JoshNorris) January 6, 2018
Abdullah Anderson (DT, Bucknell)
There’s a common rule about football. If you’re big and strong, you can play in the NFL. Abdullah Anderson checks both those boxes. He was always a handful for blockers. Not only was he difficult to move in the run game, he collected 15.5 sacks as well. His intelligence is evident from his consistent ability to find the football. He also blocked four kicks on special teams. The kid has a knack for making plays.
