Following their preseason opener victory over the Houston Texans in the Hall of Fame game, the Chicago Bears have made a roster move. As reported by
of the Chicago Sun-Times, the Bears have signed undrafted rookie cornerback Ro Torrence and waived long snapper Cameron Lyons to make room.
With this change, veteran Patrick Scales is now the sole long snapper on the roster, which currently stands at 90 players.
Torrence joins a crowded cornerback lineup that already includes Jaylon Johnson, Kyler Gordon, and Tyrique Stevenson as the primary starters.
“He’s a massive cornerback at 6’3” and 208 lbs with impressive length,” wrote Jacob Infante, lead draft analyst at Windy City Gridiron. “He’s physical in press coverage and maintains excellent body control near the line of scrimmage.”
Background on Ro Torrence
The lengthy cornerback spent his final two college seasons at Arizona State, after transferring from Auburn. During his senior year, Torrence played 12 games and recorded 37 tackles, 2.0 sacks, an interception, and four pass breakups. Notably, he allowed only 20 receptions, the fewest among Pac-12 cornerbacks with over 300 snaps, and permitted just four plays over 15 yards.
Signed briefly by the Seattle Seahawks post-draft, Torrence participated in OTAs and mandatory minicamp before being waived in June. He now heads to the Bears for another chance to prove himself.
Versatility and Potential
Torrence, who has limited experience in the slot, might be a versatile addition to the Bears’ defense. He has expressed his ability to play both cornerback and safety, a flexibility that could benefit the team.
“I can play both positions,” Torrence mentioned to Justin Melo of The Draft Network in April 2024. “Teams have talked to me about safety as well. I’m a football player and will play wherever needed. I love cornerback but am ready to contribute anywhere.”
His physical style of play and significant frame should mesh well with Matt Eberflus’s defensive schemes. Torrence’s length and ability to recover in coverage make him a strong candidate for a role, though he will face competition from Greg Stroman Jr., Josh Blackwell, Jaylon Jones, Terell Smith, and Leon Jones for a backup spot.
Torrence’s commitment and relentless approach were highlighted in his own words: “You’re going to get a physical defensive back who gives 110% effort. I put my best foot forward in all three phases, including special teams. I’m a relentless player who loves football.”