I am writing this about four guys that are more of household names. I am hoping to spark some debate, so your thoughts are welcome and appreciated…
Garrett Wolfe…
CHICAGO - AUGUST 21: Garrett Wolfe of the Chicago Bears is brought down by Jerome Boyd of the Oakland Raiders during a preseason game at Soldier Field on August 21, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. The Raiders defeated the Bears 32-17. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
Over the past day or so, some of you have had some strong suggestions on why Garrett Wolfe should make the Chicago Bears. His blocking on special teams and speed are two of the primary reasons. But in his time with the Chicago Bears, he has not exactly been a productive player. He has shown very little on offense and some things on special teams. With Kahlil Bell emerging as a viable third running back, Wolfe has an uphill battle. On Saturday’s roster, Wolfe was listed as fourth on the depth charts. As much as any of you, I would love to see this kid succeed because he is a local guy who had great success in college. However, I think the Chicago Bears have given him ample opportunities to prove himself, and he has not done so on a regular (or at all) basis. I am guessing Mr. Wolfe will be out of work come the end of training camp.
Dan LeFevour
CHICAGO - AUGUST 21: Dan LeFevour of the Chicago Bears rolls out to look for a receiver against the Oakland Raiders during a preseason game at Soldier Field on August 21, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. The Raiders defeated the Bears 32-17. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
Here’s another local kid that has many Chicago Bears fans excited. He put up amazing numbers at Central Michigan and has proven the ability to scramble. However, he has not exactly been lighting it up with his arm. Based on what I witnessed in person last Saturday, his arm speed and strength is not quite up to NFL standards. I know I am being a little harsh on this kid, but this is the big leagues and teams just do not have the luxury to hope glaring weaknesses get better. With the signing of Todd Collins and to a certain extent Matt Gutierrez, I think the Chicago Bears are sending a message that there is a concern with the depth of quarterbacks. Here is my prediction…the Bears will release LeFevour and try to sign him to the practice squad.
Hunter Hillenmeyer
CHICAGO - DECEMBER 13: Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers tosses the ball as he is brought down by Hunter Hillenmeyer #92 of the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 13, 2009 in Chicago, Illinois. The Packers defeated the Bears 21-14. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
Hunter Hillenmeyer was given the opportunity to start last season after Brian Urlacher was injured last season. He wasn’t very impressive. Now, in fairness to Hillenmeyer, he isn’t Brian Urlacher. But, he has been in the NFL long enough where he should understand the linebacker position. He seemed to have many missteps along the way. That being said, he is still a contributor on special teams and the coaches love him. He will make this team, but I think it is a lot closer than people think.
Al Afalava
ATLANTA - OCTOBER 18: Running back Jason Snelling #44 of the Atlanta Falcons carries the ball against safety Al Afalava #24 of the Chicago Bears in the second quarter of the game at the Georgia Dome on October 18, 2009 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Last season, Al Afalava was the toast of training camp. He impressed many people and earned a starting job with the defense. However, that did not last long and the coaches seemed to be frustrated with his development. This season, he is listed third on the free safety depth chart and hardly mentioned by the coaches. Based on the moves of getting Chris Harris and Major Wright, I think Afalava will be off this team by the end of training camp. It’s too bad, because he had to overcome some things in his life to get here…but like with LeFevour, this is the NFL for a reason.
