You know why I love this site and you guys? Because yesterday we argued the merits of carrying either a second fullback (Jason Davis) or a fullback/tight end hybrid (Michael Gaines). Let’s see what we can cook up today. Again, we’re assuming the Bears repeat the 25/25 breakdown of 2008.
DEFENSIVE LINE (Last year: 9)
This year: Tommie, Adams, Izzy, Harrison, Ogunleye, Brown, Anderson, Gilbert, Melton
Note: I know the consensus thought is the Bears will take Matt Toeaina after Dusty Dvoracek confirms that he’s not going to play this season. I just have the feeling that Jerry and Lovie will have a hard time letting Henry Melton go. Matt Toeaina spent time on the practice squad a year ago without being picked up by another franchise and I think the Bears will be willing to take that chance again.
LINEBACKER (Last year: 6)
This year: Urlacher, Briggs, Tinoisamoa, Jamar, Hunter, Roach
Note: There’s very little drama at this position but a shitload of depth. We haven’t heard from Nick Roach – due to a concussion – but most reports indicate he’ll be back on the field soon. The player I loved watching Saturday night was Mike Rivera, a rookie from Mark Mangino’s Kansas program. I’ll be rooting for him to finish the summer strong and hoping he lands on the practice squad.
SAFETY (Last year: 5)
This year: Payne, Manning, Afalava, Steltz, Bullocks
Note: I don’t like making this list without Mike Brown’s name.
CORNERBACK (Last year: 5)
This year: Peanut, Bowman, Graham, Vasher, McBride
Note: You may remember these five names from last year’s 53 man roster. Is that a good thing? Only if we get the pass rush…..