Hoge: Thoughts And Observations From Bears OTAs
By Adam Hoge-
HALAS HALL (CBS) The Bears completed their second-to-last OTA Wednesday in Lake Forest. Here are some thoughts and observations straight from my notebook:
- Right tackle Gabe Carimi was back on the field with the No. 1 offensive line Wednesday and didn't appear limited. That's a great sign for the Bears as they head into mini-camp next week. The rest of the line remained in tact, with Chris Spencer at right guard, Roberto Garza at center, Lance Louis at left guard and Chris Williams battling with J'Marcus Webb at left tackle.
- With Charles Tillman absent Wednesday, Tim Jennings got the bulk of the work as the No. 1 corner and was all over the field. The highlight of the day came when he jumped in front of a pass intended for Earl Bennett and laid out for an interception. It appeared the ball may have hit the ground on his way down and he later admitted they would have to check the replay. For more on how Jennings fits into the competition at cornerback, click here.
- Undrafted rookie free agent safety Trevor Coston also had a very active practice and made a similar play to jump in front of a Jay Cutler pass. Unfortunately, he dropped the interception, something the Bears are looking to improve on this season.
- Brandon Marshall turned cornerback Kelvin Hayden all the way around at one point with a beautiful 3-route to the sideline.
- Tight end Kyle Adams received a ton of reps Wednesday with both the No. 1s and 2s. The second-year tight end out of Purdue could compete for more playing time this year as a reliable receiving option. With Mike Tice taking over the offense, the tight ends will be more involved in the passing game this season.
- Speaking of tight ends, Kellen Davis was back on the field Wednesday after sitting out the last two Wednesdays when the media were allowed at practice. Brian Urlacher and Devin Hester were both absent.
- It will be interesting to see how wide receiver Eric Weems fits into the offense, if at all. He barely looks the 5-9, 195 he is listed at, but the Bears used him on a reverse Wednesday and Cutler appears comfortable throwing to him.
- First round pick Shea McClellin clearly has the athleticism the Bears raved about after selecting him. He moves well and I'm anxious to see how he does when the pads go on.
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