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.) Kelvin 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.