Case Closed: Tillman Is Not Moving To Safety
By Adam Hoge-
HALAS HALL (CBS) — Charles Tillman has said repeatedly that he doesn't want to move to safety.
And the selection of cornerback Kyle Fuller in the first round of Thursday's NFL Draft hasn't changed anything.
"Charles Tillman is our starting cornerback, and that's where he's going to be," Bears general manager Phil Emery said Friday.
Fuller was formally introduced at Halas Hall on Friday, and his role on the team was further clarified by coach Marc Trestman, who was present.
"He is versatile in coverage," Trestman said. "Look at our division. We have to line up against three-wides so much during the season. It's 11 personnel."
The 11-personnel refers to one running back and one tight end being on the field, which leaves room for three wide receivers. It's that personnel that has led to increased playing time for nickel cornerbacks, who have essentially become starters in the NFL.
The Bears want Fuller to be that third cornerback who they can move around and match up against specific offensive weapons. And to do that, they need Tillman at cornerback, not safety.
Adam Hoge covers the Bears for CBSChicago.com and is a frequent contributor to 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter at @AdamHoge.
