The Chicago Bears roster has undergone significant changes this offseason under new general manager Ryan Poles, who is building the roster his way. But perhaps his biggest contribution so far is his 2022 NFL draft class (and undrafted free agent class).
The Bears have a number of talented players who are primed to be significant contributors as rookies, including their top selections cornerback Kyler Gordon, safety Jaquan Brisker and wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. But there are some other surprise players who could carve out some nice roles for themselves this season.
Ahead of training camp, we’re ranking the top Bears rookies by their projected impact in 2022.
10. OL Zach Thomas, Ja’Tyre Carter, Doug Kramer
Steven Branscombe/Getty Images
Likely Year 1 Role: Reserves
The Bears drafted four offensive linemen on Day 3 of the NFL draft. While fifth-round selection Braxton Jones is a candidate for the starting left tackle job, Zachary Thomas, Doug Kramer and Ja’Tyre Carter aren’t expected to be significant contributors in Year 1. They’re all competing for roster spots as rookies, where the expectation is they’ll make the cut for the final 53. Thomas and Kramer saw some reps with the starters during mandatory minicamp in place of respective starters Cody Whitehair and Lucas Patrick, an indication they’re competing for backup jobs at left guard and center.
9. S Elijah Hicks
AP Photo/Kelvin Kuo
Likely Year 1 Role: Reserve/special teams contributor
Seventh-round safety Elijah Hicks was the third defensive back selected in the NFL draft. Hicks fell in the draft after breaking his foot ahead of the East-West Shrine Game, and he was limited during the offseason as he continues to get back to 100 percent. Assuming Hicks is healthy, he won’t factor into the starting equation this season, which Eddie Jackson and Jaquan Brisker will occupy. But Hicks has the potential to develop into an impactful free safety down the line. When it comes to locking down reserve roles on a roster, special teams is a huge factor. Hicks will have to impress more than DeAndre Houston-Carson and Dane Cruikshank, safeties who are core special teamers.
8. LB Jack Sanborn
AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh
Likely Year 1 Role: Reserve/special teams contributor
It was shocking that linebacker Jack Sanborn went undrafted, but the Bears landed a top undrafted free agent with potential to…
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