It was the first day of Bears mandatory minicamp, and drama has already unfolded. Although everyone was present, two players were not full participants. The Bears kept defensive end Montez Sweat out of practice because he wasn’t present during voluntary OTAs. Meanwhile, offensive guard Nate Davis was also a non-participant, though the reason remains unclear. This has sparked concerns about Davis’s commitment to the team.
I think it's pretty telling that Matt Eberflus says they'll ramp up Montez Sweat with his conditioning level being less known after not being at OTAs.
Didn't mention Nate Davis who also was off to the side at practice.
— Harrison Graham (@HGrahamNFL) June 4, 2024
Nate Davis Under Scrutiny During Mandatory Minicamp
The Events Leading Up to Now
The Bears signed Davis to a hefty three-year, 30 million-dollar contract last year. During last year’s offseason, Davis missed significant time due to a death in the family. This prevented Davis from training at NFL speed, leading to a sprained ankle that sidelined him for a month. Davis’ 2023 campaign with the Bears didn’t go as planned, earning an abysmal 52.9 overall PFF grade. However, many fans hope he bounces back next season.
Concerns Regarding Nate Davis’ Commitment to Football
Last season, Nate Davis had valid reasons for missing practice. However, this offseason presents a different scenario. There is no justification for Davis to be sitting out practices now. Having poor performances should motivate Davis to want to get better during the offseason, rather than sit out. Hopefully, there isn’t another dilemma mentally affecting Davis, but it doesn’t seem that’s the case. Bears fans are out of patience, and it should give a clear signal to the Bears staff that it’s time to bring in a replacement for Davis.
What Should The Bears Do?
With a new quarterback, offensive coordinator, and playmakers on offense, building chemistry is challenging when a key starter isn’t on the field. It’s still early, but if Nate Davis continues to miss practice, the offensive line will need a shakeup. Fortunately, the Bears have new additions who can step in at right guard. Newly acquired interior lineman Ryan Bates is the first to come to mind to replace Davis. He’s a versatile lineman who’s played 810 snaps at right guard with the Buffalo Bills in 2022. Another option is Matt Pryor, who joined the Bears this offseason and has reportedly filled in for Davis during practice. Either way, the Bears need to make it known that Davis’ job security is not guaranteed.
Outlook
It’s never a good sign when a player constantly misses practice. For Nate Davis, returning to the field and demonstrating his commitment to his teammates and the fans is crucial. The Bears are building something special, and missing practice without reason is frustrating for everyone involved. It shouldn’t come to the point where fans and coaches have to plead for Davis to participate. Practicing is the essential component of becoming successful in any situation. If Davis refuses to practice because he feels he is above the team, then he shouldn’t have a spot on the roster. Releasing Davis would result in $10.75 million in dead cap. There are no more excuses for Davis. It’s time to suit up and get on the field before someone else takes over at right guard.
