The first quarter of the 2022 NFL season is in the books for the Chicago Bears. It's been an interesting four games, to say the least. The Bears' passing game has been historically ineffective, while the running game is off to one of the most productive seasons in franchise history. The defense has been a mixed bag against the pass, and opposing running backs have had little trouble finding success.
The 2022 season began and will continue to be about quarterback Justin Fields. His development is more important than the team's win-loss record, and much of his success will depend on other young players on the roster doing their job.
That's where this year's rookie class comes in. The Bears' 2022 draft class consisted of 11 players, several of whom are playing significant roles already. Here's our power ranking of the top seven Bears rookies through the first quarter of 2022.
1. Braxton Jones, Left Tackle
Jones has started every game at left tackle and is having some encouraging moments as a rookie. His ascent to the starting lineup was a surprise after he was selected in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. The Southern Utah product hasn't looked overmatched and has played like an early-rounder. He has the sixth-highest Pro Football Focus grade among the Bears' starters on offense, including a 70.9 pass-blocking grade, which is the best of all Chicago's offensive linemen.
2. Jaquan Brisker, Safety
Brisker hasn't been perfect, but his aggressive play style and ability as an enforcer has allowed Eddie Jackson to resume his role as a playmaker. Brisker has the third-highest Pro Football Focus grade on the Bears' defense (among starters) and has lived up to the hype after he was selected in the second round out of Penn State. He's coming off his worst game as a pro against the New York Giants in Week 4, but he's been an otherwise reliable defender whose arrow is pointing way up.
3. Dominique Robinson, Edge
Robinson is second on the Bears in sacks (1.5) and has flashed high-level pass-rushing upside through four games this season. Initially viewed as a raw prospect who'd need a season or two of pro coaching before he can be a regular starter, Robinson has quickly become a critical part of Chicago's pass-rush rotation. He's logged 95 snaps through four games, a number that will go up as the season marches on. Robinson has set himself up to be an every-down starter in 2023.
4. Trenton Gill, Punter
Who knew a seventh-round punter would make such an impact for the Bears in 2022? Gill has been fantastic and is helping the Bears with field position every week. He looks the part of a 10-year starter. His 48.5 yards per punt is currently 10th-best in the NFL this year.
5. Trestan Ebner, Running Back
Ebner hasn't had many opportunities in 2022, but he's an explosive player who did a nice job as the change-of-pace back in Week 4 with David Montgomery out of the lineup. He's been a valuable special teams contributor, ranking fourth on the Bears' special teams unit with a 74.1 Pro Football Focus grade.
6. Kyler Gordon, Cornerback
Gordon has been a disappointment so far in 2022, but there's no denying his twitch and athleticism. He's looked lost in coverage and out of position against the run, however, which may be the result of having too much responsibility as a rookie. He's learning two positions (outside corner and slot) while adjusting to the speed and complexities of the NFL game. It's delaying his ability to make a weekly impact, and he's become a bit of a liability at this point. Regardless, he's a talented athlete who should settle in as a quality starter sooner than later.
7. Velus Jones Jr., Wide Receiver
Jones was sidelined with a hamstring injury for the first three games. His debut against the Giants was marred by a muffed punt that cost the Bears a chance to potentially tie the game. The third-round pick from Tennessee should slowly work his way into a receiving role on offense, but until then, he's been more frustrating than productive during the first quarter of 2022.