No position on the Chicago Bears roster is more in flux than edge rusher. While DeMarcus Walker was a welcome addition via free agency, the team hasn't really added any true upgrades. It's why many fans remain frustrated by GM Ryan Poles' refusal to add another piece from somewhere—preferably someone with credibility. There is a flip side to this, though. An unsettled depth chart often creates two things: danger and opportunity. It can often be the perfect environment for an unheralded name to make a big impression.
That includes undrafted free agents. As a rebuilding team, the Bears are a perfect environment for unsung rookies to stand out. None have seized on that opportunity more of late than D'Anthony Jones. Chicago signed him out of Houston after the draft in May. The primary knock on him was his size. He's only 6'0 tall, short for an NFL edge rusher. However, that didn't stop him from racking up 14 sacks and 22 tackles for a loss in two seasons as a starter for the Cougars.
According to Aaron Wilson of Click 2 Houston, that disruptive presence has carried over into Bears training camp.
The Chicago Bears have clearly noticed Jones.
Giving him a daily performance award shows the coaches are paying attention. The next step in the process is proving he can do it in pads. Every drill he's worked in to this point has been in shorts. Offensive linemen aren't allowed to be entirely physical with him. That will change on August 2nd when the pads go on. If Jones can maintain this momentum, it might be time to start thinking about giving him legitimate opportunities at playing time. Never mind making the main roster.
Don't forget Jones wasn't producing against second-rate programs. Some of his best performances came against Texas Tech or UCF. One of his calling cards was forcing fumbles. He had nine over his two seasons as a starter. This guy embodies everything the Chicago Bears want. He forces takeaways, gets the quarterback, plays with relentless effort, and works hard. If he were four inches taller, he probably would've been a 1st round pick. There have been successful undersized edge rushers in the past.
- Elvis Dumervil was 5'11.
- James Harrison was 6'0
- Dwight Freeney was 6'1
- LaMarr Woodley was 6'1
A guy who has the burst and strength can overcome height concerns. Jones might be on his way to proving that.
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