5 potentially surprising Bears training camp cuts

Several Chicago Bears veterans are entering training camp on the roster bubble. General manager Ryan Poles has worked tirelessly around the clock to improve the roster. Previous holdovers are at risk of playing reduced roles, or of being released from their contracts altogether.

We’ve identified five familiar names that could be released during final cuts.

Khalil Herbert | RB

Khalil Herbert is entering the final year of his rookie contract. The Bears have made investments at running back in consecutive offseasons, first drafting Roschon Johnson, and then signing D’Andre Swift. They’re prepared to move in a different direction, either now, or after the 2024 campaign. Herbert is RB3 on the Bears’ depth chart, and that should disappoint the former Virginia Tech playmaker.

Velus Jones Jr. | WR

Velus Jones Jr. has recorded 11 receptions in two seasons. Though he’s established himself as a special teams returner, the former third-rounder has not met expectations. With Keenan Allen and Rome Odunze joining D.J. Moore in the wide receiver room, and DeAndre Carter pushing for a role on special teams, Jones Jr. is firmly on the roster bubble.

Dominique Robinson | DL

Dominique Robinson has yet to really establish himself in Matt Eberflus’ defense despite being the No. 174 overall selection in the 2022 NFL Draft. The former Miami (OH) standout played 550 snaps as a first-year contributor in 2022, managing just 3.0 sacks while struggling to defend the run. Robinson played a lesser role in 2023, and could now be pushed off the roster by rookie pass rusher Austin Booker.

Greg Stroman Jr. | CB

Greg Stroman Jr. has been an on-again, off-again member of the secondary since 2022. The Bears have excellent depth at cornerback with ascending talents like Terell Smith and Jaylon Jones ready to take steps forward. Undrafted free agent Reddy Steward also poses a threat to Stroman’s roster spot.

Michael Dwumfour | DT

Zacch Pickens, Andrew Billings, and Gervon Dexter will be the primary defensive tackles for the Chicago Bears this season. Michael Dwumfour joined the practice squad in November, and then signed a futures/reserve contract in January. He’s battling for a 53-man roster spot.