As training camp begins we finally get to see how rookies and free agents perform with their new teams. This year the Chicago Bears have two rookie skill position players who are looking to contribute right away.
Kevin White
The Bears used the seventh overall pick in this years NFL draft to select White, a skillful wide receiver. With White’s combination of size, strength and speed his potential is unlimited and could become the team’s number one wide out before season’s end. But first he just needs to get healthy and actually be on the field.
White was shut down by the Bears in June and is still resting with a shin injury. Head coach John Fox said Wednesday that White is mad for being held out of practice, but the team has decided to play it safe since they know he is an important part of their offense.
Last season, as a senior at West Virginia, White caught 109 passes for 1,447 yards while scoring 10 touchdowns. He was named an All-American by: AFCA, CBS, Scout, TSN and AP. White should benefit in his rookie year with Alshon Jeffery lining up on the opposite side of him and newly acquired Eddie Royal in the slot.
Even though White is not physically practicing yet, he is still preparing to be a starter when the season begins. Offensive coordinator Adam Gase stated, “He studies. He’s constantly asking questions in the meeting room.”
Jeremy Langford
Langford was the Bears fourth round selection this year and played college at Michigan State. He will be in a different situation than White as Langford will be in a competition for the backup running back spot behind Matt Forte. Other players fighting for the spot include: Ka’Deem Carey, Jacquizz Rodgers, Senorise Perry and Daniel Thomas.
Forte describes Langford as: “a down-to-earth, humble type of guy.” Langford uses his speed when he gets the ball in his hands and is known to have big-play abilities. Landford also had a standout senior year by rushing for a career high 1,552 yards on 276 carries and reached the end zone 22 times.
All players will be learning a new offensive system being brought in by Gase. Becoming the Bears backup running back will be a challenge, but Langford has the skill and ability to make it happen.
