As the Chicago Bears approach the final week of training camp, key roster decisions remain under evaluation, particularly in the secondary. Head coach Ben Johnson identified the left tackle position as an early concern but noted that the situation has since improved. However, ambiguity persists regarding the starting safety spots following the team’s 24-15 preseason victory against the Tennessee Titans on Saturday night at Nissan Stadium.

Johnson acknowledged that the preseason finale would significantly influence decisions on the depth chart. “We’ve got to go back and look at this tape,” he said after the game. “I think we’ll probably feel better about the tackle conversation right now than safety.” The coaching staff spent Monday adjusting the roster and preparing the practice squad, with players scheduled to return to Halas Hall for three consecutive days of practice starting Tuesday.

The ongoing debate centers on who will start alongside veteran safety Eddie Jackson, who anchors the Bears’ secondary. The primary contenders for the second safety position are Cam Lewis and Xavier Woods. Lewis joined the team in free agency in March, bringing experience to the unit. Woods was acquired recently in August to address the unexpected absence of Coby Bryant, who suffered a left knee injury expected to sideline him for most, if not all, of the upcoming season.

The decision between Lewis and Woods also impacts the nickel cornerback role. Rookie fourth-round pick Malik Muhammad II has been competing for snaps at nickel, and the coaching staff's comfort level with his performance will influence how the secondary is configured. If the staff is confident in Muhammad’s readiness, they may opt for Woods to start at safety. Conversely, if Lewis remains in the mix for nickel assignments, Woods would likely hold the starting safety role.

With three practices remaining before the roster deadline, the Bears’ coaching staff will continue to analyze game tape and practice evaluations to finalize the secondary alignment in hopes of solidifying their defensive backfield for the regular season.