Undrafted Rookie Already Making Noise At Chicago Bears Minicamps

Rookie minicamps are merely an appetizer for NFL teams as they prepare for next season. Pads aren't on, and coaches haven't installed the full schemes on offense or defense. There are ways for younger players to acclimate before the real work begins. That said, it is still a good way to get noticed. Braxton Jones turned heads early in rookie minicamps and carried that over into OTAs and eventually training camp. The Chicago Bears always remain open-minded whenever unexpected names catch their attention.

It appears somebody is taking that to heart. While only two minicamps have occurred thus far, Mark Carman of CHGO felt compelled to point out that undrafted wide receiver Jahdae Walker has jumped out in early drills. The primary reason? Speed. He's said to have run a 4.43 in the 40-yard dash at the Texas A&M pro day. It flashes on tape during his two years with the Aggies. While he never had a true breakout season, some wonder if persistent quarterback issues might've held him back.

The Chicago Bears' interest in Walker is understandable.

In a vacuum, his numbers aren't anything special. Across two seasons, he caught 64 passes for 935 yards and four touchdowns. Yet upon digging deeper, you find that he always seemed to save his best performances for big games. He put up 135 yards on Oklahoma State in the Texas Bowl two years ago. He also had 100 yards on the road against 11th-ranked Ole Miss that same year. Walker averaged more than 17 yards per catch in four of his five best games. There is no denying he can be a big-play threat. His experience on special teams should help his case for making the Chicago Bears' roster. Ben Johnson is no stranger to developing undrafted receivers. He worked with Marvin Jones in Detroit. He was never overly productive in college.

Sometimes, all a guy needs is a chance. The Bears gave Walker one when they signed him. It's now up to him to take advantage of it.