Predicting the Bears’ depth chart heading into second week of training camp

The Chicago Bears return to the practice field Friday for their second week of training camp, which will feature plenty of roster battles and competition for starting roles or roster spots.

There have been some standout performances through the first seven practices, which has certainly helped elevate the stock of some players looking to push for a roster spot or starting job.

As the Bears gear up for their second week of camp, we’re doing our best to predict what this depth chart could look like right now.

Quarterback

Nothing has changed on the quarterback front behind QB1 Fields. Walker was brought in to serve as Fields’ backup, and he’s been taking those reps. One battle to watch as training camp continues and preseason begins is for the QB3 spot, where undrafted rookie Tyson Bagent could challenge Nathan Peterman.

Running back

Running back has been a battle to watch in camp. Herbert and Foreman have been rotating with the first-team offense during the first seven practices. Unfortunately for Johnson, he was sidelined for a few practices with an undisclosed injury.

Wide receiver

The Bears’ top four wide receivers are essentially set with Moore, Mooney, Claypool and Scott. While Moore has been the talk of camp, Claypool has also been impressing in a big way. Scott has showcased his speed and playmaking ability. Pettis remains sidelined on the non-football injury list.

Tight end

The Bears are set at tight end with Kmet and Tonyan, but the question is who will earn that third spot on the roster. Tonges gets the nod right now, but Allen Carlson and newcomer Pinkney will battle for the role.

Offensive line

Chicago’s starting offensive line is set heading into the season, although they’re currently down both starting guards to undisclosed injuries. Patrick is clearly the key reserve at the interior positions, be it center or either guard position. But Carter has seen opportunities with the starters, where he could be an option at either guard spot. Leatherwood has also gotten looks at guard.

Edge rusher

The Bears are signing Ngakoue to a one-year deal, giving them the veteran edge rusher they desperately needed. He’ll be the top guy in Chicago. One of the standouts from camp has been Lewis, who’s been making plays almost on the daily. But he’ll face an uphill battle to earn a spot on the 53-man roster.

Defensive tackle

The interior defensive line features mostly new faces, including three rookies. Dexter has been a standout through the first seven practices, especially when the pads came on. Chicago also added a veteran in Roy to compete for a spot on the roster.

Linebacker

The Bears overhauled the linebacker position and free agency, and the team’s starting MIKE and SAM linebackers are set with Edmunds and Edwards. But there’s competition brewing at SAM with Sanborn and Sewell. Sanborn has been sidelined with an undisclosed injury, which has given Sewell more opportunities.

Cornerback

Rookies Stevenson and Smith are competing for the starting outside cornerback spot opposite Johnson, and it’s been an interesting battle. Gordon has been impressing at nickel, where he’s been a standout player through the first seven practices.

Safety

There’s no doubt that Jackson and Brisker will lead a strong safety group for Chicago. With DeAndre Houston-Carson no longer in town, Hicks has seen an increased role as that third safety. Undrafted rookie Trahan had an impressive two-interception outing early in camp.

Specialists

For all intents and purposes, the Bears will be entering the 2023 season with their specialist core in tact. We haven’t heard much about the battle at kicker, which should be a focal point when the preseason begins.

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Story originally appeared on Bears Wire