The Chicago Bears ushered in the start of the preseason with the release of their first depth chart. Most people will call it unofficial, meaning it's best not to read too much into it. That might be true, but here's the thing. The team wouldn't bother releasing a depth chart at all if it meant nothing. They could simply list obvious backups as starters if they wanted, if it meant nothing. While no final decisions have been made, these lists are at least a small indication of the coaching staff's thoughts.
There were some minor surprises on the offensive side. Dante Pettis is listed as the seventh receiver, meaning he likely doesn't make the team if the final cuts were today. Trestan Ebner is ahead of free agent addition Travis Homer at running back. Aviante Collins appears to be in the mix for the primary backup tackle spot. However, the biggest surprise came on the defensive side, where Trevis Gipson was spotted at the bottom of the edge rusher depth chart. It isn't an exaggeration. He literally sticks out like a sore thumb.
The Chicago Bears may not like the progress they've seen.
Gipson was a disappointment last season. After posting seven sacks in 2021, he managed only three last year. Hopes were high that remaking his body for the new 4-3 system under Alan Williams would help. Yet by most accounts, he's been quiet in practice aside from occasional one-on-one victories. Meanwhile, others have stood out far more. Dominique Robinson, the Bears' 5th round pick from last year, has stepped up his game this summer. Veteran addition Terrell Lewis has been the most pleasant surprise of camp. Even undrafted rookie D'Anthony Jones has flashed plenty of potential.
Together with DeMarcus Walker and new arrival Yannick Ngakoue, Gipson suddenly finds the competition far steeper than last season. That makes the upcoming preseason games the most vital of his career. If he can't produce in game action over the next three weeks, there is a realistic possibility he might be the latest Ryan Pace pick to find his way out of town. Considering how many people felt he was a lock to make the roster a few months ago, this development is an undeniable shock.
