Jacquizz Rodgers emerging as third-down back for Chicago Bears

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Jacquizz Rodgers"ability to run, catch passes, block and tackle is helping him emerge as a valuable asset for the Chicago Bears. The former Oregon State star is catching the eye of the coaches with his play during training camp.

"He"s a guy that"s solid (and) doesn"t make a whole lot of mistakes," Bears running backs coach Stan Drayton told the Chicago Sun-Times. "Any time you have a player like that, you really feel comfortable with him in the game."

The Bears certainly appreciate Rodgers" ability to catch the football, making him an important element in the passing game. He has caught 156 passes during his career, including catching 53 passes during the 2012 season and 52 passes in 2013.

Rodgers displayed his versatility during the Bears 22-0 loss to Denver Thursday night in the team"s first preseason game. Playing in the second quarter, he caught two passes, one a 20-yard pass from quarterback Brian Hoyer, ran the twice and posted a tackle on a punt return.

Another reason for his value is his ability to block to help protect quarterback Jay Cutler. That ability was on display when the 5-foot-6, 205-pound Rodgers took on 6-foot-5, 336-pound defensive lineman Akiem Hicks in a goal line drill during practice last week. Hicks won the battle, but Rodgers willingness to attempt to block has impressed the coaching staff.

Rodgers, 26, is in his sixth NFL season and his second year with the Bears after spending his first four seasons with the Atlanta Falcons. Rodgers didn"t carry the football (14 carries) very much in 2015, but he was a valuable special member before suffering a season-ending broken arm during Week 6.

With the departure of Matt Forte, Rodgers is now the oldest of the running backs and is seen as the leader of the group. Rodgers versatility on offense, along with his contributions on special teams and work ethic, should make him a valuable asset for the Bears.

-- | @geoffreyCarnold

Source: http://www.oregonlive.com/nfl/index.ssf/2016/08/jacquizz_rodgers_emerging_as_t.html