Chicago Bears: Nick Kwiatkoski getting valuable training camp snaps

With several linebackers missing Chicago Bears training camp practices, Nick Kwiatkoski is getting valuable snaps to show he deserves more playing time.

The Chicago Bears drafted two inside linebackers in the 2018 NFL Draft, seemingly making Nick Kwiatkoski a less important piece of the defense. With Danny Trevathan and rookie Roquan Smith the projected starters and Joel Iyiegbuniwe playing a key reserve role, Kwiatkoski’s path for playing time appeared limited.

However, things change quickly in the NFL. Smith has yet to sign his rookie contract and has not reported to training camp as a result. Trevathan was diagnosed with a hamstring injury during medical evaluations and has not practiced. And Iyiegbuniwe has been in-and-out of practice with a shoulder injury.

As a result, it’s Kwiatkoski who is seeing the lion’s share of starting snaps at inside linebacker. For a player that was just a few days ago fighting for snaps, being thrusted into the starting lineup is music for the ears. With a strong showing, Kwiatkoski could show Matt Nagy and Vic Fangio that he not only deserves a roster spot, but also a larger role in the defense.

Depending on when Smith shows up to camp, Kwiatkoski could be a key player for the Bears early in the regular season. Ideally it’s Smith who is out there come Sept. 9, but if he’s not ready, Kwiatkoski would be the likely starter. As opposed to both Smith and Iyiegbuniwe, Kwiatkoski already has two years of experience in this defense and has proven to be a solid starter when pressed into duty.

Smith’s saga may last for only a few more days or for several more weeks (Joey Bosa held out for 31 days in 2016). Even if Smith misses a small amount of time, it’s not a guarantee that he’ll be thrown out there with the starters. These first-string reps are extremely valuable for Kwiatkoski, and a strong showing could help him hold-off the first-round pick, regardless of when he shows up.

Next: NFL Power Rankings 2018: Start of training camps edition

Learning an NFL defense is no easy thing, so while it would be great if Smith is ready Week 1, it’s also great to have a solid player like Kwiatkoski waiting in the wings and acting as an insurance policy.