Bears Add OL Ricky Stromberg to Practice Squad

Typically, a practice squad addition isn't very newsworthy. But this one might be different.

Stromberg's upside far exceeds that of most practice squad players. He was selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Washington Commanders. As a rookie last year, Stromberg only played in four games, accumulating only 26 snaps before suffering a knee injury that required surgery.

Before the 2024 season, the Commanders waived Stromberg. His injury required another surgery, and his status may have been caught up in an overhaul for the Commanders' coaching and management staff. While the injury might have depleted his upside, there's limited information about what's going on with his knee. If he can make a full recovery, the Bears might have found themselves a quality developmental center.

This past offseason, former Bears and Commanders offensive tackle Charles Leno spoke glowingly about Stromberg as a prospect.

At 24 years old, Stromberg has plenty of years ahead of him to contribute to an NFL team. The Bears showed interest in Stromberg leading up to the 2023 NFL Draft, hosting him for a top 30 visit. In college, he played both the guard and center positions but was viewed as a center entering the NFL.

Below is a summary of the prospect profile I penned on Stromberg before the 2023 NFL Draft.

Stromberg grew up a "die-hard" Bears fan. Even though it might be a long shot, this signing could be an injection of hope that the Bears' offensive line desperately needs. While Stromberg might not be a factor this season, depending on how his recovery is going, his presence could make the center position easier to figure out going forward.