Alright, putting on the Bears jersey doesn’t mean you get a free pass. The preseason isn’t a charity case — it’s your one shot to scream I belong here. Now, look — we still don’t know exactly who or how much of the 1st and 2nd string guys are going to suit up against Miami or how many series they’ll actually play. But assuming we get a decent look at the core contributors, five names are screaming loud enough to make you hear them on the highlight reel.
Stick around, because this preview isn’t for the fainthearted. Let’s rip into it.
1. Colston Loveland, TE, Rookie
Why you can’t blink:
A rookie tight end making veteran defenders look like linebackers in route-running class? And doing it after missing the entire offseason due to shoulder surgery? That’s a freakin’ statement.
Loveland was getting praise for “football instincts” and strong blocking mechanics from HC Ben Johnson. His route precision and chemistry with Caleb Williams are keeping defenses awake at night. And putting him next to Cole Kmet in two‑TE packages? That’s the blueprint.
What to watch for vs. Miami:
- Snap counts
- Yards after catch
- Blocking effort
- Route timing
If he delivers, Bears fans are looking at an immediate starter.
2. Austin Booker, DE, Second Year
Why his rise matters:
Booker’s rookie numbers (1.5 sacks, 286 snaps) were baby steps. But Dennis Allen sees the physicality, the frame, the bend. The Bears didn’t chase edge depth this offseason — that’s your clue.
What to monitor vs. Miami:
- Hand usage
- Pressures/pockets collapsed
- Assignment discipline
- Run defense
Breakout — or bust? The preseason will tell.
3. Luther Burden III, WR, Rookie
Why the hype is real, but stay sharp:
Returning from a hammy, Burden is showing why he was drafted high: deep‑ball explosion and speed. But if the hammy ain’t fully healed, that deep route can kill his stock.
What to watch in-game:
- Snap tempo and length
- Route depth
- Burst and acceleration
- Directional change
Let’s see if he lights it up — or relights something.
4. JP Richardson, WR, Undrafted Rookie
Why this is the “diamond in the rough” story you actually want:
Richardson’s earning it with route precision and contested-catch hustle. Declan Doyle said Richardson “stood out quite a bit.” Add special teams juice and multi-position chops, and this is no fluke.
What to watch vs. Miami:
- Separation on routes
- Contested catches
- Special teams reps
- Speed-change execution
If he shows up in three phases, he’s earning a roster spot.
5. Kyle Monangai, RB, Rookie
Why his stock might be Cam Newton manic — but quieter and scarier:
Seventh-rounder from Rutgers, praised for reliability and ball security. Ben Johnson called him one of “four standouts” of camp. Monangai picks up blitzes, holds onto the ball, and stays coachable.
What to watch vs. Miami:
- Pass protection reads
- Hands in short game
- Burst through gaps
- Contact balance
He could be the most dependable guy when injuries hit.
Why These Five Matter
These five are betting chips on the 2025 future. The hits (Loveland, Burden) need immediate ROI. Booker needs to show year-two lift. Richardson could be the undrafted gem. Monangai might be the depth piece nobody sees coming.
Every snap counts. This isn’t dress rehearsal. It’s survival mode.
| Player | What to Watch | Stakes |
|---|---|---|
| Loveland | Blocking, routes, red-zone reps | Starter potential |
| Booker | Pressure, run gap discipline | Edge rotation spot |
| Burden III | Speed, durability, deep routes | WR2/WR3 upside |
| Richardson | Multi-phase value | Depth WR and returner |
| Monangai | Pass pro, ball security | RB3/early injury insurance |
Final Verdict
These five aren’t just long shots or rookies. They’re the Bears’ test tube for 2025. The Miami game isn’t just football. It’s survival of the sharpest.
Loveland has to prove he’s a TE1 in the making. Booker needs to flash. Burden needs to stretch the field and stay healthy. Richardson must triple-threat his way onto the depth chart. Monangai? He just needs to keep doing the little things right — every damn down.
If they ball out? The Bears are back in business.
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