Bears Bring Back Young Defensive Talent: Dashaun Mallory Rejoins Chicago’s Practice Squad
The Chicago Bears made a notable move to bolster their defensive depth on Wednesday, officially signing 24-year-old defensive lineman Dashaun Mallory to their practice squad, as reported by the NFL Transactions wire. This marks the second time Mallory has been a part of Chicago’s roster, having initially signed with the team as an undrafted free agent in May of 2024.
Mallory’s journey with the Bears has been a winding one. After spending the preseason with the team, he found himself on the list of final roster cuts, a tough but common fate for many undrafted players trying to make their mark in the NFL. Mallory did, however, earn a brief stint on Chicago’s practice squad before being released in the shuffle of roster adjustments. His return signals that the Bears are still keen on his potential as a developmental talent, especially in a league where defensive line depth can be critical.
From College to the NFL: Mallory’s Journey
Dashaun Mallory’s path to the NFL is marked by perseverance and versatility, having split his college career between Michigan State and Arizona State. Over the course of his time in both programs, Mallory compiled an impressive stat line, recording 92 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, five pass defenses, and two fumble recoveries. His performance showcased not only his ability to disrupt the backfield but also his knack for making big plays in key moments.
At Michigan State, Mallory made a name for himself as a force on the defensive line, displaying strength, agility, and a motor that made him a tough matchup for opposing offensive lines. His transfer to Arizona State brought with it a fresh set of challenges, but Mallory quickly adapted, continuing to build on his reputation as a consistent contributor on the defensive front. His college resume reveals a player with the tools to succeed at the next level, even if his route to the NFL has been unconventional.
The Bears’ Perspective: What Mallory Brings to the Table
For the Bears, re-signing Mallory is a low-risk, high-reward move that could pay dividends down the line. As a practice squad player, Mallory will have the opportunity to further develop his skills while learning from the team’s veteran defenders and coaching staff. With injuries always a looming threat, having a player like Mallory in the system gives the Bears flexibility in case they need to elevate him to the active roster.
At 6’2” and 280 pounds, Mallory has the size to play multiple roles on the defensive line, whether it’s as a run-stopper or providing pressure on the quarterback. His ability to penetrate the line of scrimmage and disrupt plays in the backfield is an asset that could make him a valuable rotational player in the future. Moreover, his college experience, particularly his 16 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks, shows that he has a nose for getting into the backfield and causing chaos, a skill set that could prove beneficial in certain defensive packages.
Second Chances and the Road Ahead
While being cut and re-signed is part of the reality for many young NFL players, the fact that the Bears brought Mallory back speaks to the confidence they have in his abilities. It’s a sign that, despite not making the 53-man roster, the team sees potential in his development and believes he can contribute in the future.
For Mallory, this is another chance to prove himself and continue his dream of making it on an active NFL roster. The grind of being on the practice squad is far from glamorous, but it’s a critical part of many successful NFL careers. Players like James Harrison and Danny Amendola spent time on practice squads before going on to have highly productive careers, and Mallory will undoubtedly be motivated by the possibility of following in their footsteps.
As the 2024 NFL season unfolds, Mallory will look to make the most of his practice squad role, staying prepared for the moment when the Bears—or another team—might call on him to step up. For now, his focus will be on improving his technique, absorbing the Bears’ defensive scheme, and proving that he has what it takes to contribute at the highest level.
In a league where opportunity can come in the blink of an eye, Dashaun Mallory’s journey is far from over. His return to the Bears’ practice squad is just the next chapter in a story that could eventually see him making plays on Sundays.
