Bears looking to push the versatility of underrated defender this summer to help create more competition at an open roster position

The Chicago Bears are swiftly moving through the offseason program with two weeks of organized team activities in the rearview mirror and mandatory minicamp set to be held this week.

The energy and reviews have been off the charts for the new coaching staff led by head coach Ben Johnson as they look to maximize the roster inside of the new schemes being installed on the field.

Part of that process is experimentation with certain players. Similar to last summer when the Bears experimented with Velus Jones Jr. at running back to help with the lack of depth standing out at the position.

Heading into minicamp, there's already one player who was mentioned as the next Guinea pig to see if he can have another path toward competing for a roster spot.

That player is defensive lineman Daniel Hardy. Hardy played all 17 games for the Bears in 2024, mainly on special teams, but did rotate in throughout the D-line as well. Under the new staff, the Bears are looking to see what the versatile defender can do in another position as well.

"We’re finding out," head coach Ben Johnson said. "He’s toggled a little bit between defensive line, and we’re going to experiment a little bit with him this springtime and in training camp, to see what he looks like dropping into coverage for us and what we’re asking our linebackers to do. I do know this, he’s got some pass-rush ability. He’s shown that over his time here, and that’s intriguing. But, we’re going to look to expand his skillset, as well."