Bears Training Camp – Day 4 Report
Day 4 of Bear-bonnais 2011 is in the books. I’m not lucky enough to make it to camp, but thanks to the power of Twitter and the best beat reporters in the business, I can compile some of the highlights of the day. It was a hot one today and the team practiced in shorts and shells; no real hitting.
Before practice started, rumors began swirling that the Bears were bringing a fan favorite – Desmond Clark – back for a 1 year deal. It was confirmed later in the day. I don’t know how much Dez has left in the tank, but he will add value to the tight end position for the Bears. He’s a solid blocker and is great around the goal line. He’s a class act that I’m glad will be back with the Bears.
Mike Martz addressed the media for the first time since the NFC Championship game. Yes, he’s as kooky as ever. Here are a few clips from Martz, via Sean Jensen’s Twitter feed. If you’re not following him, get on it. He’s providing outstanding coverage and seems to be more accessible than Biggs, in my humble opinion.
"Mike Martz on Chris Spencer as starting center: “We’re not going to anoint anyone.”Martz on o-line: “I think we would all like to have a couple more veteran linemen. I don’t think that’s any different than any camp….”Martz (Part 2): “I don’t know if you can ever have enough quality offensive linemen.”Mike Martz on @GregOlsen82: “We didn’t use him enough; I know that. The circumstances were just what it was.”Martz on @GregOlsen82: “He’s got a great deal of money, to go play for a real good team. He’s a great guy, and a terrific football player”Mike Martz on @JayCutler6: “He’s done an awful lot of work on his own… I was kind of giddy (about footwork) to be honest with you.”Martz on @JayCutler6: “However he did – I don’t know how he did it – but I’m amazed at the progress he made.”"
Of course Martz was giddy about Jay’s feet. Who does this guy think he is, Rex Ryan?
Other notes will focus on the offensive line, since I know you’re following it as closely as I am.
- Multiple reports indicate that Mike Tice is in mid-season form. He was especially vocal with the 2nd unit.
- Gabe Carimi was running with the 1’s at RT, while J’Marcus Webb worked on the left side.
- Chris Williams had a rough day, ending up on his ass a few times. Not good for the former first rounder who will be fighting for his professional life this camp.
- Newcomer Chris Spencer will have to earn his spot at center. He will be challenged by Roberto Garza, who has been taking snaps with the first team until Spencer can start practicing on Thursday. That’s when the real fun will start.
Follow me on Twitter @BearGogglesOn and follow the new official site page @Bear_Goggles. You can keep up with us on Facebook too.