Title image via MEAC Media Relations
Courtesy of Derek W. Bryant, Assistant Athletic Director for Media Relations & Sports Information
Former Howard University standout Ian Wheeler made his NFL debut Saturday with a pair of rushing touchdowns en route to the Chicago Bears grabbing a 33-6 victory over the Buffalo Bills during preseason action in Buffalo, N.Y.
The two-time MEAC (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference) champion rushed for 43 yards on five carries with two TDs in the fourth quarter.
With more than six minutes remaining, the Houston native scored up-the-middle to extend the Bears lead, 26-6. Nearly four minutes later, Wheeler found paydirt for the second time off a toss to the left side.
Wheeler wrapped up his career as one of the league’s most dynamic players, finishing with nearly 2,500 all-purpose yards while returning a school-record three kickoffs for touchdowns. The former walk-on also shined in the classroom, earning a cumulative 3.57 GPA and being named to the MEAC Commissioner’s All-Academic Team. In October 2023, the Houston product was accepted into Howard University med school.
Overall, the Bears finished with 340 total yards offense, including 141 rushing yards. DMV native and No. 1 draft pick Caleb Williams also made his debut, going 4-of-7 for 95 yards.
Wheeler is back in action Saturday (Aug. 17) when Chicago faces the Cincinnati Bengals at home.
