Chicago Bears: 5 Veterans who won’t survive 2018 training camp

ILB John Timu

Realistically, it’s been a good run for John Timu, a former undrafted free agent who has managed to stick on the Bears roster for a few years. Unfortunately, I’m thinking his time with the team is about to run out.

Why? Well, the drafting of Roquan Smith certainly didn’t help. The Bears also have Danny Trevathan and Nick Kwiatkoski at inside linebacker, further lessening his value on the roster. The drafting of Joel Iyiegbuniwe was the final blow to his chances.

The Bears are only going to invest so many roster spots at inside linebacker. Chances are three or four are retained, and any others are left behind. Now you could try to make the case that Timu brings added value as a prominent special teams contributor, but that only counts for so much. I could also see Iyiegbuniwe taking over that role considering his superior athleticism and upside.

No matter which way you spin it, Timu’s time in Chicago is nearing its end. He’s never been anything more than an emergency backup and decent special teamer. With more capable playmakers at inside linebacker on the roster than in seasons passed, it just doesn’t seem like the Bears have the room to retain the Washington product for another year.

Still, considering what he’s done over the last three seasons, I’d say Timu exceeded expectations.