Chicago Bears: 5 Under-the-radar players to watch in training camp

Chicago Bears under-the-radar player no. 1: Micah Baskerville, Linebacker

If we look for this year’s Sanborn, Micah Baskerville could be the guy. Like Sanborn, he is a linebacker who went undrafted. The Bears signed him and he could have a big training camp.

The Chicago Bears have had a great history with linebackers in general. They’ve also had a good history with undrafted linebackers. Christian Jones went undrafted in 2014. He carved out a solid five-year career with the Bears. He went on to play four more seasons, three with the Detroit Lions and a season with the Seattle Seahawks.

Then there was Sanborn last season. Now, keep an eye out on Baskerville.

Baskerville came to Chicago from LSU. He played 46 games for the Tigers, recording 260 tackles, 12 passes defended, 4 sacks, and 2 interceptions. He was a team captain and won a National Championship.

The Bears completely overhauled the linebacker unit. They added T.J. Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds, both of whom were ranked among the best linebacker in the NFL. With those two in the fold, Pro Football Focus ranks the Chicago Bears’ linebackers unit as second best (behind only the San Francisco 49ers) in the league.

Additionally, Sanborn will battle rookie fifth-round draft pick Noah Sewell for the starting strongside linebacker spot.

Even so, the Bears still need some backup help. Baskerville provides quality play. Some might be wary of such young talent but these are quality players who can do a good job in spot situations. Baskerville could be a revelation for the Bears.