Training camp is a time for players to show what they are made of.
From an injured veteran looking to show he still has it to an unproven rookie
trying to prove himself everyone gets a chance in training camp. In Bourbonnais
the Bears have been hard at work for almost a week with several players gaining
the attention of the coaching staff, media, and fans. These individuals are
fighting for both backup and starter positions this camp.
1.)
Kalvin Hayden- Cornerback
Missing most of last year with a torn hamstring Hayden is an older player looking to prove he still has it. Kyle Fuller has
been that talk of the camp but Hayden has proved that he can add depth to the
cornerback position. Tim Jennings has been sitting out with an injury and
Hayden has gotten valuable time in camp to get some work. Two interceptions and
a few break ups so far this camp have coaches seeing that Hayden still has it.
Camp is not over yet but Hayden is earning an opportunity if Tillman or Jennings goes down.
2.)
Chris Williams- Wide Receiver/Returner
Having a return specialist is a luxury in
the NFL and the Bears have been beyond lucky with Devin Hester. With Hester
gone the Bears have brought in former CFL speedster Chris Williams to fill the
void at returner. Special teams coordinator Joe DeCamillis has raved about
Williams speed and experience in the CFL. Williams has showcased his
athleticism and explosiveness in both special team and receiver drills.
Trestman is a former CFL coach has a general feel already for Williams. It's
early in training camp but Williams is showing his worth as a special teams
contributor.
3.)
Eben Britton- Guard/Tackle
With Kyle Long sitting out due to a viral
infection, Eben Britton has had the opportunity to run with the first team.
Getting the reps is huge for not only him but also for the Bears. The big
muller fits right into the system and serves as an extra blocker in jumbo
packages. In camp he has held his own against the revamped 1st team defense but
went down yesterday with an injury during 1 on 1 drills. He is currently listed
as day to day but has proven himself a worthy asset to the Bears.
4.)
Nate Collins- Defensive Tackle
When an athlete is coming off of an ACL
injury you never know what quite to expect. Nate Collins is setting the
expectations high with his play thus far in training camp. In 1 on 1 drills, he
has shined the brightest of possibly all the defensive linemen. Collins has
shown the ability to beat blockers with both good technique and power.
5.)
Jimmy Clausen- Quarterback
The battle for the backup quarterback
position has definitely heated up with the emergence of Jimmy Clausen as the
front runner. The former second round pick was not who the Panthers thought he
was but Trestman could be revitalizing Clausen's career. In camp this week
Clausen has manned the two minute drill like a leader and has been on target
with his passes though most of the week. Clausen could be this year's Josh
McCown barring a Cutler injury.
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