Rookie Receiver Braverman Could Find Fit In Bears Offense

By Chris Emma--

BOURBONNAIS, Ill. (CBS) -- Each catch from Bears rookie receiver Daniel Braverman brings in a roar.

Fans at Olivet Nazarene have already gained an appreciation for Braverman, the seventh-round pick out of Western Michigan who's impressing early in training camp.

"I just got to come out and prove every day, stay consistent and prove that I can work hard and play with these guys," Braverman said.

Once practice is over, Braverman catches balls on the jugs machine -- sometimes in the hundreds -- before leaving the field to sign autographs.

How many balls are enough for Braverman?

"Once I feel like I'm prepared and I got my daily work in," Braverman said.

"Never be satisfied. You always want to do more. That's how I was raised."

Standing in the huddle, Braverman doesn't exactly stand out. He's just 5-foot-10 and 185 pounds, just a little bit smaller than Alshon Jeffery and Kevin White. However, he's winning over quarterback Jay Cutler the same way. Braverman could earn a role as slot receiver for the Bears.

Braverman brings quick feet and sure hands to the field. He can make up for size with speed and athleticism.

Since joining the Bears, Braverman has made a point to soak in everything from Cutler. He sits directly behind the quarterback in film sessions and picks up whatever knowledge he can.

"It's Jay Cutler, Braverman said. "You want to learn anything you can from him."

Braverman was quick to reference the chip on his shoulder. It comes with being the undersized seventh-round pick from the small school, one looking to stick in the NFL.

Early into training camp, it seems Braverman could earn a role in the Bears' offense. At times, he even wondered whether this day would come.

"Sometimes, you devalue yourself," Braverman said. "It's human nature. But it's having the mental toughness to push through that, believe in yourself and have faith."

Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.