The Chicago Bears' Week 1 preseason victory over the Cleveland Browns may have been uneventful, but it offered some intriguing insights into the team's potential. Among the players who stood out, two in particular warrant closer inspection: Theo Benedet and Jordan van den Berg.
Theo Benedet: The Underrated Offensive Lineman
While rookie center Logan Jones received some playing time, it was Theo Benedet who truly shone. As a backup offensive lineman, Benedet earned the sixth-best offensive grade for the Bears, with the second-best among their linemen. His performance was notable for his clean pass-pro record, allowing no pressures. This stands in contrast to veteran free-agent signee Jedrick Wills and starting left tackle Kiran Amegadjie, who both struggled with three pressures each. The emergence of Benedet, an undrafted free agent, is particularly intriguing. His consistent performance and ability to hold up against pressure could secure him a role on the team, especially with the potential return of Ozzy Trapilo, who is recovering from a patellar tendon rupture. If Trapilo is ready to start, it might mean the end of Braxton Jones' starting role or a shift in the lineup involving Wills and Amegadjie.
Jordan van den Berg: The Athletic Defensive Tackle
Jordan van den Berg, a sixth-round rookie from Georgia Tech, showcased his athleticism and physicality. Despite his raw talent, van den Berg needs to improve his discipline. However, his three pressures, including a quarterback hit, and his aggressive play against Shedeur Sanders, highlight his potential as a pass-rushing threat. The Bears' need for pass-rushing help last season makes van den Berg's skills valuable. While he may not start immediately, his ability to create pressure could earn him a spot on the roster, providing the team with an additional pass-rushing option.
Implications and Future Prospects
The performances of Benedet and van den Berg have significant implications for the Bears' roster. Benedet's consistent play and clean pass-pro record make him a strong contender for a spot, especially with the potential return of Trapilo. Van den Berg's athleticism and raw talent could also push him into a role as a pass-rushing specialist, filling a need for the team. These players' contributions could shape the Bears' offensive and defensive strategies, potentially impacting the team's overall performance and future success.
