Josh Kreutz making the Bears would be special on numerous levels

TL;DR

Josh Kreutz, an undrafted center from the University of Illinois, received rookie minicamp invitations from both the New York Giants and Chicago Bears. He chose to join the Bears, following in the footsteps of his father, Olin Kreutz, a team legend.

Key points

Josh Kreutz went undrafted and did not sign any UDFA deals.
He received minicamp invitations from the New York Giants and Chicago Bears.
Kreutz chose to join the Bears, following his father's legacy.

Mentioned in this story

Josh KreutzOlin KreutzChicago BearsNew York GiantsUniversity of Illinois

University of Illinois center Josh Kreutz went undrafted this past weekend. He didn't sign any UDFA deals either. He was however, offered a rookie minicamp invitation from both the New York Giants and the Chicago Bears, according to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune.

That decision was a no-brainer, given how Josh's father is six-time Pro Bowler and team legend Olin Kreutz. Of course, it was going to be Bears. And we've seen the Illini-Bears organizational synergies in partnership before.

Flashback to the summer of 2005, when the Bears needed a third string quarterback, and extended a training camp invitation to Kurt Kittner. The Schaumburg, IL native played his college football at the University of Illinois, during the era when Ron Turner was in charge.

And the Bears Offensive Coordinator at this time was none other than Ron Turner. Kittner, who had been released by five different teams (Atlanta Falcons, Cincinnati Bengals, New York Giants, New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers) in a seven month span during the 2004 offseason, made the team, after not throwing a pass the previous season.

He did not play in the '05 regular season either, and was let go in late November when QB1 Rex Grossman returned from injury. It was Kittner's last job in the NFL.

Q&A

Why did Josh Kreutz choose the Chicago Bears over the New York Giants?

Josh Kreutz chose the Bears because of his father's legacy as a team legend and six-time Pro Bowler, making it a special opportunity for him.

What is the significance of Josh Kreutz's connection to the University of Illinois and the Bears?

Josh Kreutz's connection is significant as it reflects a history of collaboration between the University of Illinois and the Bears, exemplified by past players like Kurt Kittner.

What opportunities does Josh Kreutz have after going undrafted in the NFL?

After going undrafted, Josh Kreutz has the opportunity to prove himself at the Bears' rookie minicamp, potentially earning a spot on the team.