On Tuesday, the Chicago Bears finalized their initial 53-man roster for the 2024 NFL season, marking a serious moment in the league’s cut-down day. This roster announcement revealed few unexpected changes. However, running back/wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. secured a spot, likely his last opportunity to demonstrate his value and contribute meaningfully to the team.
The Bears opted to retain six defensive ends, including Dominique Robinson and Daniel Hardy. This decision necessitated the release of fullback Khari Blasingame. However, Blasingame is anticipated to be reinstated once long-snapper Patrick Scales is placed on injured reserve due to a back injury that is expected to sideline him for over a month.
With backup long snapper Cameron Lyons waived, the team will likely conduct tryouts at Halas Hall to find a suitable replacement, leading to another adjustment to the roster once a new player is identified.
Entering the season with high expectations, the 2024 Bears are poised to make a strong playoff push, led by rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and a dynamic set of skill players, including wide receivers DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, and Rome Odunze, running back D’Andre Swift, and tight ends Cole Kmet and Gerald Everett. Their defense, featuring one of the league’s top back sevens, adds to the team’s promising outlook.
Despite this optimism, the Bears face two major concerns. The offensive line has been plagued by injuries throughout camp. The starting five consists of Braxton Jones, Teven Jenkins, Coleman Shelton, Nate Davis, and Darnell Wright, though Ryan Bates is sidelined with a shoulder issue, which could affect the line’s stability. Backup center Doug Kramer and swing tackle Matt Pryor will step in as needed, while Larry Borom, recovering from an ankle injury, has been placed on injured reserve with a return designation after Week 4.
Additionally, the defensive line is thin at defensive tackle despite acquiring Chris Williams. With Zacch Pickens dealing with a groin injury, the Bears have only three interior defensive linemen, relying on DeMarcus Walker to move inside on passing downs. The defensive line’s depth could become a critical vulnerability if key players like Gervon Dexter or Andrew Billings are injured, potentially undermining the unit’s overall effectiveness.