Bears Undrafted Rookie Started Training Camp With Massive Bang

Training camp serves many purposes for the Chicago Bears. It gets players in shape for a long, grueling season. It helps coaches install and perfect their systems for the upcoming chess matches. Perhaps most intriguingly, it serves as an ideal platform for no-name guys to gain attention. Every year, there seems to be at least one player who rises from the depths of nowhere to draw the interest of fans. Underdogs are one of the favorite things of sports lovers, and camp standouts are among the most popular.

Thus far, nobody has established himself as the unquestioned name to watch. However, it appears someone decided to fire the first shot. According to multiple reports, things started with a bang on the first day of training camp courtesy of wide receiver JP Richardson. The undrafted free agent fought through tight coverage on a downfield throw from Tyson Bagent to make a glorious one-handed catch. It was the type of play that got everybody on the field fired up, and undoubtedly forced the coaches to take notice.

The Chicago Bears’ interest in Richardson isn’t hard to understand.

Coaches always love guys who can catch the football well. It is clear Richardson can do that. He also seems to thrive in the slot thanks to his quick feet and route-running skill. Ben Johnson’s offense loves to feature the slot position. It makes sense he’d target receivers who can play it well. Richardson took an important first step in his quest to steal a roster spot. The Chicago Bears have loads of depth at wide receiver with D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, Luther Burden, and Olamide Zacchaeus virtually guaranteed roster spots. That leaves two left for the rookie to challenge for. To get there, he’ll have to get past names like Devin Duvernay, Tyler Scott, and Miles Boykin. That is asking a lot. Still, Richardson is no stranger to challenges.

He had to transfer from Oklahoma State after not getting enough opportunities. In 2023, he landed with TCU, where he helped them rebound from their national championship defeat. One big advantage he’ll have in this race is his punt return experience. He had 23 returns last season, including a touchdown.