A look at the first week of training camp.
As the Chicago Bears camp enters week two, there are signs of improvement as they start preparations for their first pre season game next week.
Just before camp opened last week, fans wondered what this season would bring. No one wants to see another 3-13 season. After a few practices with pads on, there are several positives to discuss. Beginning with lively competition in the defensive backfield and at wide receiver, to newcomers Adam Shaheen and Tarik Cohen, fans at camp have been taking notice. Additionally, the pleasant surprise of Danny Trevathan practicing despite a serious injury which many thought would land him on the PUP list. Finally, Leonard Floyd has been virtually unstoppable in one-on-one drills.
At wide receiver, Cam Meredith and Victor Cruz have been impressive from day one, catching just about everything thrown in their direction. Kevin White took a little longer to flash, but just came off his best practice to date.
One of the most pleasant surprises so far has been the play of RB Tarik Cohen. He has quickly become a fan favorite in Bourbonnais and continues to impress. Cohen must be able to prove his worth starting next week against Denver, but early signs are encouraging.
Fans were expecting the Bears to address the defense with this year’s draft, but GM Ryan Pace addressed the team’s most glaring needs in free agency. Free agents Prince Amukamara and Marcus Cooper were signed to start at cornerback. Quintin Demps is slated to start at safety.
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Former first round pick Kyle Fuller has been drawing praise from Amukamara and could very well be the best choice as the starter at nickel. 4th round draft choice Eddie Jackson has made a name for himself making several key plays. Adding in last year’s rookies Deon Bush and Deiondre’ Hall and its easy to see this year’s defensive backfield is loaded with depth.
Leonard Floyd, last year’s top pick played well in 2016, and has started camp on fire. He has been virtually unstoppable in one-on-one drills. He came to camp after spending the off-season working on his tackling technique. He also added muscle, arriving at Bourbonnais looking much more the part of an elite edge rusher.
At the midway point of training camp, the Bears have not been hampered by serious injuries, something that plagued them all of 2016. The encouraging signs have fans cautiously optimistic. If the success from Bourbonnais carries into their first preseason game at Soldier Field vs. Denver, it could be the start of a season we are all hoping to see.