The Bears signed nine undrafted free agents Thursday in advance of the start of rookie minicamp practices Friday.
They are:
Western Kentucky quarterback Austin Reed
Howard running back Ian Wheeler
Troy defensive back Reddy Stewart
UCLA linebacker Carl Jones
James Madison defensive end Jamree Kromah
British Columbia tackle Theo Benedet
Illinois defensive tackle Keith Randolph Jr.
Louisiana-Lafayette wide receiver Peter LeBlanc
Kentucky tight end Brendan Bates
In order to have enough players to run two camp practices this week, the Bears will also bring in 24 rookies for tryouts. Among them are Eastern Illinois defensive back Russell Dandy, Wisconsin defensive back Travian Blaylock and Arizona State defensive tackle DeShaun Mallory, who is a Bolingbrook native.
Veterans who will be trying out include defensive back Parry Nickerson, tight end Tommy Sweeney and receiver Freddie Swain.
Quarterback Caleb WIlliams, the No. 1 overall pick, and receiver Rome Odunze, who was chosen ninth, highlight the draft picks in attendance at Halas Hall this week.