The Chicago Bears kicked off the preseason with a 34-10 win over the Cleveland Browns, which saw some impressive performances from players looking to earn a spot on the roster.
After trailing 10-0 in the first quarter, the Bears scored 34 unanswered points en route to a dominating victory that featured impressive showings in all three phases of action. With most of the starters resting, the stage was set for under-the-radar players to showcase their talents and make it difficult on general manager Ryan Poles when it comes to making roster decisions.
Following Saturday’s preseason opener, here are the roster bubble players who made a strong case for a spot on the 53-man roster.
DE Jamree Kromah
Defensive end Jamree Kromah had a monster day on defense, where he showcased his impressive power off the edge and pressuring the quarterback against the Browns. Kromah had two of Chicago’s three sacks on the day, and he could have had more, while adding six tackles, including three tackles for loss and two quarterback hits. One of those sacks was a strip sack of starting quarterback Deshaun Watson on fourth-and-2. Kromah was consistently generating pressure and getting in the backfield.
WR Kaden Davis
Wide receiver Kaden Davis had been a standout in training camp, and it translated to the field in Chicago’s preseason opener. Davis showcased his playmaking ability and led the Bears with four receptions for 88 yards and a touchdown in first-half action with quarterback Tyson Bagent. Davis continues to make a strong statement for a roster spot in a loaded receivers room.
CB Beanie Bishop
The Bears signed Beanie Bishop amid a slew of injuries in the secondary, and he had an impactful performance in the team’s preseason opening win. Bishop had not one but two interceptions, three pass breakups and three tackles. Bishop picked off both Browns quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel on badly overthrown passes. With Chicago dealing with numerous injuries in the defensive backfield, it was a statement game.
RB Salvon Ahmed
Running back Salvon Ahmed has been one of the underrated standouts during training camp, and he showed exactly why against the Browns. Ahmed only had two carries for 17 yards, averaging 8.5 yards per carry, but he provided a highlight in the passing game, taking a screen pass from quarterback Tyson Bagent 49 yards for a touchdown. Ahmed totaled three catches for 55 yards, on three targets, and a score on the day. Ahmed outshone Roschon Johnson, who got the start, and continues to make a case for a roster spot.
LB Ruben Hyppolite II
Ruben Hyppolite II was another standout player for the Bears defense, and he also saw action on special teams. Hyppolite led the team with seven tackles, including one tackle for loss, and a pass breakup. After a tough rookie season, Hyppolite had positive contributions on defense where he showcased his speed. Unfortunately, Hyppolite suffered a shoulder injury and didn’t return. The hope is that it’s not anything serious so that the former fourth-round pick has an opportunity to make a push for a roster spot.
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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears players who made strong case for roster spot vs. Browns
Reporting by Alyssa Barbieri, Bears Wire / Bears Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Alyssa Barbieri, Bears Wire | USA TODAY Network
