Former Delaware Blue Hen, Bilal Nichols, registers sack in first NFL appearance

Earlier this year, the Chicago Bears selected Delaware DT Bilal Nichols in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, 145th overall. Nichols registered 21 starts on the Blue Hens’ defensive line, logging 16.5 career tackles for loss with 10.5 sacks and ten pass breakups throughout his college career.

On Thursday, Nichols took the field for his first professional football game as the Bears went up against the Baltimore Ravens in the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio. Nichols is currently listed as a second-string defensive end on the Bears depth chart.

Nichols registered a fourth quarter sack on Thursday. The Bears pass rush was able to create pressure on Baltimore quarterbacks all night and Nichols joined the party. He also made some nice plays in the running game and finished the game with four tackles (three solo), a sack, and a tackle for loss.

Considered an explosive but raw interior lineman prior to the draft with some excellent upside, Nichols has a chance to make an impact for Chicago this season.

Nichols was a first-team FCS All-American in 2017, his senior year at Delaware. He was one of three former Blue Hens players on the sidelines last night. QB Joe Flacco (did not play) and TE Nick Boyle (one reception for 12 yards) are on the Baltimore Ravens roster.