The Chicago Bears made a quick move to fix a hole in the middle of their offensive line. They signed center Wesley French and waived defensive back Brandon Hill on the same day. This swap happened right before a preseason game against the Cleveland Browns. The team needs a backup plan because starter Luke Newman is out for an undisclosed reason. It is a simple roster fix, but it shows the coaches are watching every spot closely.
French Brings Real Experience
Wesley French is not just a name on a practice squad list. He is a 29-year-old who has played in all 17 games for the Indianapolis Colts in 2023. He started three times that year and knows how to handle NFL speed. According to Windy City Gridiron, the Bears brought him in after a three-man tryout that also included Tremayne Anchrum and Lecitus Smith. The team needs someone who can step in immediately if the starters get hurt. French spent time on the Cowboys and Browns practice squads recently, so he knows the league well. He is a solid pick for a team that cannot afford to be slow on the line.
The depth chart situation is still a bit messy. The top two centers are starter Garrett Bradbury and rookie Logan Jones. Jaren Kump held the third spot before French arrived. Now the Bears have a real backup who has seen game action. This gives the coaching staff more choices when they decide who plays in the second half of preseason games. The move makes sense for a team trying to find its best lineup before the regular season starts.
Depth Charts Are Just Guesses
Do not get too excited about the first unofficial depth chart the team released. The Bears Communications team put it together without the coaches. As Windy City Gridiron reported, this document is just a staffer’s best guess, not a final plan. It lists injured players who have practiced but leaves out those on the PUP list. The left tackle spot is still up for grabs, and the chart reflects that uncertainty. Even the team knows they are still figuring out who plays where.
At defensive end, Austin Booker has been running with the first team, noted the report. Dayo Odeyingbo has been moving inside to defensive tackle. These shifts show the coaches are trying different looks to see what works. The depth chart is a snapshot of a moment, not a promise of who will start in September. Fans should watch the game reps, not just the paper list, to know the real story.
Brown Game Will Reveal Truth
The real test comes this Saturday against the Cleveland Browns. Fans are eager to see rookie Logan Jones and other young players get time on the field. Windy City Gridiron noted that most healthy younger players will see action in this game. The coaches need to know who can protect quarterback Caleb Williams before the regular season begins. This is the moment to see if French can hold his own against a tough defense.
The Bears have a short time to get ready. The preseason game is only five days away. The team needs to clear the logjam on the roster and find the best five offensive linemen. Signing French and waiving Hill clears the way for the next step.
Sources: Windy City Gridiron (SBN Bears)
