Adam Podlesh Injury: Bears Punter Ahead Of Schedule, May Be Ready For Season Opener

Chicago Bears punter Adam Podlesh is dramatically ahead of schedule after suffering a left hip-flexor injury on August 18 and may be ready for the season opener on September 9, according to Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune.

Podlesh was originally thought to be sidelined for four-to-six weeks with the injury, which translates to three-to-four regular season games, however, Podlesh's current recovery pace makes his availabilty reasonably possible for the season opener against the Indianapolis Colts. Podlesh did not explicitly discuss his injury on Sunday, however, McClure writes that Podlesh did acknowledge that he is ahead of schedule.

Podlesh was a fourth round selection of the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2007 NFL Draft but was signed by the Chicago Bears prior to last season and played in all 16 games. If Podlesh is unable to play on September 9, rookie punter Ryan Quigley would assume the punting duties for Chicago.

Head over to Windy City Gridiron for more Bears coverage. Also visit SB Nation's NFL hub for more preseason news and analysis from around the league.

Bears Training Camp News: Johnny Knox Injured But Believes He Will Play In 2012

Although he is on the physically unable to perform list and must miss the first six weeks of the season, Chicago Bears wide receiver Johnny Knox is confident that he will play at some point during the 2012 season despite suffering such a serious injury late in the 2011 season.

He tells the Chicago Sun-Times:

"It could be this season, next season, who knows? But I'm going to keep striving to get better and get back on the field."

Knox was injured in a scary incident late during the 2011 season. He had to have surgery to replace an injured vertebra which has put his chances of playing during the 2012 season in jeopardy.

Stay with this StoryStream for more Bears training camp coverage, and be sure to check out Windy City Gridiron for more Bears football news. Also head over to SB Nation's NFL hub for more training camp coverage from around the league.

Chicago Bears Injury Update: Two Safeties Go Down In Preseason Game Versus Redskins

Safeties Brandon Hardin and Chris Conte both left Saturday's preseason game against the Washington Redskins. Urlacher remains out.

Chicago Bears Training Camp News: Jay Cutler Not Worried About Inconsistency

The Chicago Bears have had an up-and-down preseason to this point. However, quarterback Jay Cutler says the team is not worried yet about their inconsistent performance.

In an article on ESPN.com, Cutler says the team hasn't been able to get enough prep time in practice together, but once they do, watch out.

"We hit some nice shots in there, but we didn't really get a chance to do what we wanted exactly like we wanted to," Cutler said. "Until we really get a full week and get those guys out there, practice what we want to practice, and see how it looks, it isn't gonna be... you can't expect to get everything out there. That's the tough part about the preseason games. You want to have the finished product, but the practice time and the preparation (in the preseason doesn't allow for that)."

The Bears are coming off of a 33-31 win over the Redskins, a game that was a big one for Cutler. He completed four of his first five passes, each for more than 16 yards. It will be interesting to see how Chicago carries the momentum moving forward.

Stay with this StoryStream for more Bears training camp coverage, and be sure to check out Windy City Gridiron for more Bears football news. Also head over to SB Nation's NFL hub for more training camp coverage from around the league.

Redskins Vs. Bears: Mike Shanahan Says Redskins Starters Will Play '30-35 Plays'

After easing the starters back into game mode in Week 1 of the preseason, Mike Shanahan told reporters on Thursday that the Redskins starters will play much more in Week 2 when they take on the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on Saturday.

Shanahan told media that the Redskins starters, including rookie quarterback and second overall selection in the 2012 NFL Draft, Robert Griffin III, will play about 30-35 plays on Friday which should roughly equate to about the first half.

Griffin III played in only the first quarter of the first preseason game for the Redskins before getting pulled with about three minutes left in the quarter. In his second game under NFL lights, the Bears will get a full half against the rookie and get a longer test of the starters on Saturday.

Stay with this StoryStream for more Bears training camp coverage, and be sure to check out Windy City Gridiron for more Bears football news. Also head over to SB Nation's NFL hub for more training camp coverage from around the league.

Mike Martz Says 'Heck Yeah' The Bears Are Super Bowl Contenders

Mike Martz spoke Friday to ESPN 1000 in Chicago about Jay Cutler and the 2012 Chicago Bears.

Former Chicago Bears Defensive Tackle Steve McMichael Intends To Run For Mayor Of Romeoville

Former Bear Steve "Mongo" McMichael is running for mayor of Romeoville, Ill., and he wants you to know that he's dead serious about it.

Brian Urlacher And Jenny McCarthy Break Up; Ruin Air And Water Show For Everyone

Jay Cutler Gushes About Potential Of Chicago Bears' Red Zone Attack

The Chicago Bears should have a pretty potent passing attack in the red zone this season as Jay Cutler has tall targets in Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery and Kellen Davis.

Bears Rookie Shea McClellin Is A "Baller," According To Phil Emery

The 19th overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, Chicago Bears rookie defensive end Shea McClellin had some rough times during the first few days of training camp. His performance in last Thursday's loss to the Denver Broncos made GM Phil Emery a happy man, Emery told ESPN 1000 Tuesday:

"The most important thing when you look at Shea is he’s a very instinctive, very good ballplayer. He’s a baller. He makes plays on instincts. I see that. That was evident last Thursday in that he made plays. So I feel very good about where Shea’s going."

McClellin, a linebacker when he played at Boise State, had three tackles in Thursday's game, including a tackle-for-loss and a sack of former Bears backup quarterback Caleb Hanie.

Stay with this StoryStream for more Bears training camp coverage, and be sure to check out Windy City Gridiron for more Bears football news. Also head over to SB Nation's NFL hub for more training camp coverage from around the league.

Bears Training Camp: Chicago LB Brian Urlacher Will Reportedly Be Ready For Opener After Knee Surgery

With the start of the 2012 NFL season less than a month away, Chicago Bears star linebacker Brian Urlacher had arthroscopic surgery on his knee on Tuesday afternoon. In order to quell the storm, Chicago general manager Phil Emery informed Bears sideline reporter Zach Zaidman that the procedure took place solely to speed up Urlacher's recovery time rather than delay it:

Although it's a tad hard to believe that a surgery exactly 26 days before Urlacher's expected return will allow him to get on the field faster, Emery's sheer confidence is good sign for Bears fans. Even if Urlacher's recovery takes a bit longer than expected, he still would have a great shot to be in uniform for Chicago's September 13th trip to face Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers on Thursday night in week two.

Stay with this StoryStream for more Bears training camp coverage, and be sure to check out Windy City Gridiron for more Bears football news. Also head over to SB Nation's NFL hub for more training camp coverage from around the league.

Bears Training Camp: O-Line Shuffling A Major Concern

If the Chicago Bears learned anything from last Thursday's preseason beatdown from the Denver Broncos, it was that the offensive line has some serious work left to do this preseason. Mike Tice ripped J'Marcus Webb's performance on Monday, to which the left tackle responded with some creative rhymes that probably won't help him protect the backsides of Jay Cutler or Jason Campbell anytime soon.

T.J. Shouse summed up fans' current concerns in a post at Windy City Gridiron on Tuesday afternoon:

The joke last year was about having a guard playing tackle, a tackle playing guard, a center playing guard and a guard playing center. And while the line's performance overall last year wasn't good, we did see some positive things happen before the Cutler injury (23 sacks allowed with Cutler and 26 allowed with the poo-poo platter under center). But the crazy thing to me is just how messed up our offensive line situation is where we have multiple players - make that starters - playing positions different from their primary one. Not only that, but we have guys like Lance Louis going guard-tackle-guard in under a year, or Chris Williams and his wonderful career as a left tackle-right tackle-guard-right tackle-left tackle. In essence, the guy's played a different position each year he's been in the NFL. Even if he didn't suck (which he kinda does), how do you expect a guy to get comfortable and perform at a high level when he doesn't even know what position he'll be playing in a week?

Williams looks to have a legitimate shot at taking the left-tackle position if Webb's poor play continues. It's a shuffle that needs to end for the Bears to be a true Super Bowl contender.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. Drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Chicago Bears Keep Quiet On New Contract For Jay Cutler

With his star quarterback set to earn $7.7 million in base salary for the upcoming season, Chicago Bears general manager Phil Emery continues to remain elusive about whether he's exploring a new contract for veteran signal-caller Jay Cutler.

Emery spoke with ESPN100's "Waddle & Silvy Show" on Tuesday and completely deflected any questions about Cutler's deal, which is set to expire in 2013.

"Any and all contracts will be kept private," Emery said. "I think that is a very private issue between a club and a player, and will remain that way."

Although Emery and the organization remain steadfast in their belief that the 29-year-old Cutler is capable of bringing a Super Bowl title back to the Windy City, it's clear that the team isn't necessarily concerned with his long-term security at the moment.

Stay with this StoryStream for more Bears training camp coverage, and be sure to check out Windy City Gridiron for more Bears coverage. Head over to SB Nation's NFL hub for more news and analysis from around the league.

Chicago Bears OT J'Marcus Webb Responds To Coach's Criticism By Rhyming 'Taco' With 'Tackle' In Internet Poem

Jay Cutler Will Play In Chicago Bears' Second Preseason Game Vs. Washington

The days off for Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler are at an end. After missing the team's preseason opener largely due to the fact that his fiancée, Kristin Cavallari, had just given birth to the couple's first child, Cutler is scheduled to get back in there and play for week two.

Zach Zaidman had the news on Twitter -- saying that Cutler will in fact play against the Washington Redskins in week two. Cutler didn't ask for week one off, by all accounts, he was simply given the time off with all that was happening in his life. He showed up on time and warmed up with the rest of the players, and dressed with them all, as well. The decision to give him the day off reportedly came after he was warming up.

In his absence, Jason Campbell made the start and was given a chance to work with the first-team offense. Not many players on the Bears performed well in that game, and fans are eager to see Cutler work with some of his new weapons on offense. Though hopefully Chicago will be able to keep him upright, with an ongoing battle at the most important position on the line at left tackle.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Chicago Bears News: Chris Williams And J'Marcus Webb Will Split Reps With 1st Team Vs. Redskins

The Chicago Bears have a very important position battle going on during camp and the preseason: a battle for the starting left tackle position, which has only recently opened up. J'Marcus Webb was the presumed starter entering training camp, and was the first guy to play the position in the team's preseason opener against the Denver Broncos.

After returning to practice following the game, Webb began sharing first-team reps with Chris Williams on the left side. Coach Lovie Smith said that "all positions are open," but the clear perception was that Webb was going to be the unquestioned starter. It doesn't appear as though Webb had a rough time in the game against Denver, though Jason Campbell was sacked once while Webb was on the field.

According to Jeff Dickerson of ESPN, via Twitter, the plan is for Williams to see some first-team snaps at left tackle against the Washington Redskins on Saturday. That will be the team's second preseason game, and it's likely we'll know a lot more about the competition after that as well as the third week of the preseason, when starters are traditionally played the longest.

Chris Williams originally played left tackle, but switched to back up Gabe Carimi at the right tackle position when he had some issues with his right knee. Now that he's battling Webb again, it's possible the Bears got a good look at him and decided that he needed to compete.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Green Bay Packers Sign Former Bears Running Back Cedric Benson

Cedric Benson is returning to the NFC North, as ESPN reports he has signed a one-year deal with the Green Bay Packers.

Chicago Bears Training Camp: Notes From A Final Sunday In Bourbonnais

SB Nation Chicago's Ricky O'Donnell was back at Bears camp on Sunday, where the health of Brian Urlacher continued to be Bourbonnais' biggest concern.

Chicago Bears Injury Update: Nose Tackle Stephen Paea Hurts Ankle

Nose tackle Stephen Paea injured his ankle yesterday and is in now in a walking boot; Brian Urlacher still out

Brian Urlacher Injury: Bears LB Expects To Sit Out Preseason, Play In Regular Season Opener

Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher plans to avoid playing in the preseason in order to make the regular season opener on Sept. 9, as Bears beat writer Zach Zaidman reports. Urlacher says that his only priority is to be healthy for the regular season, so he doesn't want to take any risks in essentially meaningless games:

I'd love to be out there, but I'm not going to put myself in jeopardy of missing the first game.

Urlacher, 34, suffered a serious knee injury in Chicago's 2011 season finale against the Minnesota Vikings, and he's been recovering all offseason. Progress has generally be steady, but he's missed numerous practices over the past few weeks during training camp, leaving concern that he could miss the beginning of the season.

Without Urlacher, the Bears would be missing the heart and soul of their defense, one of the best linebackers in the entire NFL. Even with his advancing age, he's still one of the most important players on Chicago's roster, so it's not surprising to see some caution as the season opener nears.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Roster 2012: Chicago Adds A Pair Of Linebackers With Brian Urlacher Ailing

With All-Pro LB Brian Urlacher still missing time due to the aftereffects of a late-season injury, the Chicago Bears have added a pair of young middle linebackers Xavier Adibi and K.C. Asiodu. According to head coach Lovie Smith, the Bears hope to have Urlacher back soon, but will have to keep a close eye on his health:

"Brian Urlacher is back after he’s taken care of some business," said coach Lovie Smith. "So it was good to get him back out on the practice field even though he’s not practicing yet. He still has some soreness with the knee. We’ll continue to monitor it.

"Exactly when he’ll be back, I can’t tell you that."

Urlacher, 34, is entering his 13th NFL season and the final year of his contract with the Bears.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Preseason 2012: J'Marcus Webb, Chris Williams Splitting Practice Time

The left tackle position, which had previously belonged LT J'Marcus Webb, is now apparently an open position. According to Brad Briggs of the Chicago Tribune, the Bears have begun to split Webb's practice with OL Chris Williams.

According to Williams, the suddenly reappearance of the position battle has not bothered him:

"I have always had a fair shot," Williams said of the competition. "I just come to work. Come Week 1, we'll have the best five guys out there. It will all work itself out. Obviously, they wanted me at right tackle for a reason. I just go to work."

Williams, 27 in the 2012 season, was the Bears first round draft pick in 2008, but has started in only 38 of the Bears' 64 regular season games since then.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Preseason 2012: Shea McClellin Promoted, Israel Idonije Moved Inside

John "Moon" Mullin of CSN Chicago is reporting the Chicago Bears have already given first-round draft pick DE Shea McClellin a significant promotion. According to Mullin, the Bears have moved McClellin to the No. 1 unit, shifting DE Israel Idonije to the interior line.

Head coach Lovie Smith says McClellin -- along with fellow rookie, WR Alshon Jeffery -- have earned increased playing time on the merit of their impressive early performances:

"We give guys reps and we keep giving them reps and let them tell us where they go from there," coach Lovie Smith told CSNChicago.com. "That’s what’s happening right now. Shea McClellin and [rookie wide receiver] Alshon Jeffery, I was pleased with what they did the first time out.

"Shea is a good football player. We’ve been saying that. It takes time but we see what he can become. And Izzy has rushed on the inside so we’re just trying to get those best four."

McClellin had 1 the Bears' 3 sacks in the opening game of the 2012 NFL preseason, while Jeffery led the team with 4 receptions for 35 yards.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Sign Xavier Adibi And K.C. Asiodu, Waive Ronnie Cameron And Jeremy Ware

The Chicago Bears added a pair of linebackers on Saturday, signing Xavier Adibi and K.C. Asiodu. They also waived defensive tackle Ronnie Cameron and cornerback Jeremy Ware.

LM: Bears sign LBs Xavier Adibi and K.C. Asiodu and DE Aston Whiteside; waive DT Ronnie Cameron and CB Jeremy Ware.

— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) August 11, 2012

Related: Brian Urlacher Still Absent; Bears Still Expect Him Back Soon

Adibi is a four-year NFL veteran who has played for the Vikings and Titans. He has appeared in 38 games and has 68 career tackles.

Asiodu, who did not play in an NFL game in 2011, has appeared in 11 games over the course of his brief career.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Chicago Bears Sign DE Aston Whiteside From Abilene Christian University

The Chicago Bears signed defensive end Aston Whiteside to a deal on Saturday, according to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, which continues their recent trend of taking interest in prospects from Abilene Christian University. Former Bears safety Danieal Manning and current wide receiver Johnny Knox -- two Abilene Christian products previously drafted by Chicago -- have both turned into very solid professional players, so now the Bears are hoping they've landed another contributor by picking him up after the Dallas Cowboys dropped the undrafted free agent DE earlier in training camp.

The National Football Post had a quick write-up on Whiteside for the NFL Draft, and here is what that report had to say:

The 6-2, 265-pounder is able to create a burst off the edge, counter off his speed rush and keep his pad level down while changing directions. He also displayed some violence when asked to shed with his hands and was a tough block one-on-one.

Lovie Smith is always looking for another speed rusher to line up at DE in his Tampa-2 scheme that relies on pressure from the front four, so now it's up to Whiteside to prove he belongs on the roster heading into the regular season.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Preseason 2012: J'Marcus Webb Not Mad About Playing 83 Percent Of Offensive Snaps In Game 1

Chicago Bears offensive lineman J'Marcus Webb entered the season listed as the starter at left tackle, but in the team's first preseason game against the Denver Broncos the Bears didn't manage his snaps accordingly. In an odd twist, Webb stayed in the game for 41 of the 49 offensive snaps (83 percent) against Denver, including some time with the third-string and fourth-string units. Presumed "starters" in the NFL are rarely treated that way in the preseason, but Webb isn't sulking about his unorthodox role:

"I've got to get better every day and every week, and that comes with the territory," he said. "I don't think of it as a punishment. I've got to get better. If he asks me to stay in, then I will."

via Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune.

After the game, Lovie Smith didn't expand on why Webb saw the field so much, but it seemed pretty obvious that offensive coordinator Mike Tice wants to test the young LT early and often to make sure he's fit to protect Jay Cutler's blind side during the regular season. Here's what Lovie Smith had to say to reporters:

"Just some players we thought needed reps, we needed to see," Smith said. "Some of the guys we know a little more about right now, we didn't play as much, and that was pretty much it."

It appears the Bears are just like everyone else, because they want to see more from J'Marcus Webb.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Training Camp 2012: Could Chicago Alter Shea McClellin's Role To Get Him More Playing Time?

After watching the Chicago Bears' first preseason game, CSN-Chicago's John Mullin wondered if the team might have to get a little creative to get rookie Shea McClellin on the field. Mullin thinks McClellin could become one of the team's best 11 defensive players but might have trouble finding consistent playing time at DE.

What if rookie defensive end Shea McClellin were only the Bears’ fourth-best defensive end but one of their best 11 defensive players? Corey Wootton, who had a strong game Thursday against Denver All-Pro left tackle Ryan Clady, is far and away the best end after Israel Idonije and Julius Peppers. Wootton could be playing his way into the discussion for starting, but that's for another time.

Related: Chicago Bears Sign Former DE Alex Brown To One-Day Contract So He Can Retire With Team

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Chicago Bears Sign Former DE Alex Brown To One-Day Contract So He Can Retire With Team

Professional sports are usually pretty great but occasionally they can become overly sentimental and a little cheesy. These things are, quite obviously, very subjective.

On Wednesday night, the Chicago Bears announced they had signed Alex Brown to a one-day contract so the former defensive end could retire with the team. Brown was drafted by Chicago in 2002 and was let go prior to the 2010 season. Brown spent one year with the New Orleans Saints but didn't play last season. He will retire immediately; the gesture is only a symbol of the Bears' appreciation for Brown during his years with the team.

So: is this cool or sort of unnecessary? I suppose it depends on how cynical you are. Brown was certainly a key component to the Bears' Super Bowl XLI loser, but this announcement feels a bit out of left field. Brown does work in the local media, so I suppose it's a nice way to put his playing days to rest. I'm just not certain how essential it was. If Alex Brown signs a one-day contract to retire with Chicago, aren't there at least 20 guys who used to play for the Bears who could warrant the same treatment?

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Training Camp 2012: Chicago Releases TE Draylen Ross

The Chicago Bears released tight end Draylen Ross on Wednesday, according to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune. The move brings Chicago's total training camp roster down to 89 players, ending the tight end's relatively short stint with the team.

Initially signed as an undrafted free agent by the Bears in 2011, he spent the final nine weeks of the 2011 season on Chicago's practice squad, but he never appeared in an NFL game. The product of North Texas was never able to really establish himself among the team's tight ends, and now he's the third player to leave the club this week.

Entering Thursday night's preseason opener against the Denver Broncos, the Bears still have five tight ends on the roster. Biggs speculates that as many as four of those players could ultimately make the 53-man active roster for the beginning of the regular season.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

J'Marcus Webb Vows To Protect Jay Cutler's New Baby

Brian Urlacher Injury: When Do We Worry About The Chicago Bears Middle Linebacker?

Brian Urlacher has missed six consecutive training camp practices due to a balky knee. SB Nation Chicago's Ricky O'Donnell isn't too worried about No. 54 just yet, but he isn't ready to consider a future without the star middle linebacker.

Mike Martz In Your Ears: Former Bears Offensive Coordinator Now On-Air Talent

Jay Cutler On New Wide Receivers: "It's Like Easter"

Bears Depth Chart: Chicago Sets First Unofficial Depth Chart

Michael C. Wright of ESPN Chicago passed along the first unofficial depth chart of the 2012 NFL season on Monday. The lineup featured a few surprises, including at left tackle where OT J'Marcus Webb will take the starting role and OL Chris Williams, a former first-round draft pick, will start the preseason in a reserve role. Meanwhile, rookie OL James Brown, a Chicago native and undrafted free agent, assumes the third-string spot.

Here is a look at the full depth chart, courtesy of ESPN Chicago:

OFFENSE

WR: Brandon Marshall/Earl Bennett/Dane Sanzenbacher/Terriun Crump-Chris Summers

LT: J’Marcus Webb/Chris Williams/*James Brown

LG: Chris Spencer/Chilo Rachal/*A.J. Greene

C: Roberto Garza/Edwin Williams/Chris Spencer/*Nick Pieschel

RG: Lance Louis/Ricky Henry/*Nick Pieschel

RT: Gabe Carimi/Chris Williams/Cory Brandon/*Tyler Hendrickson

TE: Kellen Davis/Matt Spaeth/Kyle Adams/*Evan Rodriguez/*Brandon Venson

WR: Devin Hester/*Alshon Jeffery/Eric Weems/*Joe Anderson-*Brittan Golden/Rashied Davis

QB: Jay Cutler/Jason Campbell/Josh McCown/*Matt Blanchard

RB: Matt Forte/Michael Bush/Kahlil Bell/Armando Allen/Lorenzo Booker

FB: Tyler Clutts/Harvey Unga/Draylen Ross

DEFENSE

LE: Israel Idonije/*Shea McClellin-Corey Wootton/Thaddeus Gibson

DT: Henry Melton/Stephen Paea/Nate Collins-John McCargo

NT: Stephen Paea-Matt Toeaina/Nate Collins-Brian Price/Jordan Miller/Ronnie Cameron-DeMario Pressley

RE: Julius Peppers/Chauncey Davis-*Shea McClellin/ChetaOzougwu

WLB: Lance Briggs/Geno Hayes/J.T. Thomas/*Adrien Cole

MLB: Brian Urlacher/Dom DeCicco/Jabara Williams/*Ronnie Thornton

SLB: Nick Roach/Blake Costanzo-Patrick Trahan

LCB: Tim Jennings/Kelvin Hayden/*Isaiah Frey/Cornelius Brown-Jeremy Ware

RCB: Charles Tillman/Jonathan Wilhite/*Greg McCoy/D.J. Moore

SS: Major Wright/Craig Steltz/Anthony Walters

FS: Chris Conte/*Brandon Hardin/Trevor Colston-Jeremy Jones

SPECIAL TEAMS

K: Robbie Gould/*Ryan Quigley

KO: Robbie Gould/*Ryan Quigley

P: Adam Podlesh/*Ryan Quigley

H: Adam Podlesh/*Ryan Quigley

LS: Patrick Mannelly/Tyler Clutts

KR: Devin Hester/Eric Weems/*Greg McCoy

PR: Devin Hester/Earl Bennett-Eric Weems/*Greg McCoy

*rookie

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Training Camp: Chicago Signs WR Rashied Davis

The unexpected retirement of backup wide receiver Devin Thomas has left a small hole in Chicago's depth chart, and to remedy that the team announced Monday that it has signed WR Rashied Davis.

#Bears announce they have signed WR Rashied Davis after Devin Thomas depature

— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) August 6, 2012

Davis spent six years with the bears from 2005-to-2010, catching 88 balls for 1,032 yards and five touchdowns. Davis was also contributed on special teams, returns kicks and covering kicks and punts. He spent 2011 with the Detroit Lions, totalling four receptions for 63 yards.

In Chicago, Davis will be behind a stable of receivers that includes Brandon Marshall, Devin Hester, Earl Bennett and rookie Alshon Jeffery. If all goes right for Chicago, Davis won't see the field much on offense, but he does bring some experience to the table.

For more on the Bears, visit Windy City Gridiron. Head over to SB Nation NFL for more news and notes as we approach the new season.

Chicago Bears Training Camp: More Observations From Another Day In Bourbonnais

SB Nation Chicago's Ricky O'Donnell spent another day at Chicago Bears training camp on Sunday. Some things happened.

Bears Training Camp 2012: Brian Urlacher Still Unable To Practice Due To Soreness

The Chicago Bears have insisted that Brian Urlacher's persistently sore knee does not pose a longterm problem, but head coach Lovie Smith admitted on Sunday that the linebacker's inability to practice was becoming "a concern."

‘It's always a concern when you have an injury at the end of the year and you miss some time in the offseason,'' Smith said, referring to the sprained ligaments Urlacher suffered in his left knee in Week 17 last season. ‘‘But he should be OK.''

(via the Chicago Sun-Times)

Urlacher has now missed more practices (four) than he's participated in (three), and his health this offseason has been classified as "not if, but when." That said, all eyes will be on the 34-year-old until he manages to stay on the field.

Chicago's first preseason game is this Thursday, Aug. 9, when they host the Denver Broncos.

For more on the Bears, visit Windy City Gridiron. Head over to SB Nation NFL for more news and notes as we approach the new season.

Brian Urlacher Injury: Bears LB Won't Play Against Broncos On Thursday

Brian Urlacher missed his fourth straight practice on Sunday and the Bears linebacker will be held out of the team's first exhibition game, which is set for Thursday against the Denver Broncos. The Bears continue to be cautious as Urlacher works his way back from a knee injury, and they are not sure when Urlacher will play in a preseason game, if he does at all.

Lance Briggs isn't worried about Urlacher at this point.

"Brian is a tough-minded, tough-hearted person, and he knows what he needs to do to get on that football field,'' Briggs said Sunday. "Our trainers know what they need to do to get him back on the field. For now, he'll rest. When he's ready to go, he's ready to go.''

Related: Bears DE Shea McClellin Admits To Being Unprepared For The 'Grind Of Things'

For more on the bears, visit Windy City Gridiron. Head over to SB Nation NFL for more news and notes as we approach the new season.

Bears WR Devin Thomas Retires From Football

Chicago Bears wide receiver Devin Thomas has decided to hang up his cleats and go back home to be a coach and mentor.

Bears Training Camp 2012: OT James Brown, Chicago Native, Among Preseason Surprises

In his most recent column, Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times listed the biggest surprises in the 2012 Chicago Bears training camp, and Chicago-born OT James Brown has made the cut at No. 2. According to Brown, he is just delighted to be playing for his native team:

"I was born in Chicago, so this has been my favorite team since Day 1," Brown said. "This has been a gift from God."

And in addition to being grateful for playing with the Bears, Brown is also happy to be suddenly on the second-string line, despite coming in as an undrafted free agent:

"That was a very big surprise," Brown said. "I found out right before we came out here on the field. I’m feeling pretty good. I’m learning more and more every day."

Brown will have his first shot to play against an NFL defensive line on Thursday, as the Bears open their preseason schedule against the Denver Broncos.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears DE Shea McClellin Admits To Being Unprepared For The 'Grind Of Things'

Chicago Bears rookie defensive end Shea McClellin will be expected to contribute on the field from day one of the regular season in 2012, but his transition to the NFL game during training camp hasn't been a smooth one. The No. 19 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft has looked uncomfortable when trying to pressure the quarterback in team drills, but he did put together a nice practice on Thursday and is now hoping to build on that momentum going forward.

On Friday morning he spoke with the Mully and Hanley Show on Chicago's 670 AM The Score, and the former Boise State standout admitted he has been a bit overwhelmed during the first week of practice:

"The grind of things. Mentally, I think, I wasn't ready for that," McClellin told The Mully And Hanley Show in Bourbonnais. "Being away from the family and all kinds of other stress and pressure, it can get to you, especially as a rookie. I'm doing better and that's what I'm trying to do."

"The media is crazy around here and that's something people told me it would be, but it's definitely pretty crazy."

"I think I'm harder on myself than anyone," McClellin said. "I need to not do that and kind of just, like Coach Marinelli said, just have fun with it and play the next play."

Quotes via Chicago.CBSLocal.com.

Things won't get any easier and media scrutiny won't get any less intense over the coming months, so here's to hoping McClellin has adjusted to the atmosphere and is primed to hit his stride.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Training Camp 2012: Devin Hester Excused From Thursday's Practice For Undisclosed Reason; Brian Urlacher's Workload Limited

Chicago Bears wide receiver Devin Hester was excused from practice on Thursday according to head coach Lovie Smith, who did not elaborate. And while linebacker Brian Urlacher worked out with the team on Thursday, though the Bears were careful about how much they let him do.

Bears coach Lovie Smith announced "Hester was excused today," but didn’t elaborate on why.

Hester attended lunch with the team in the dining hall at Olivet Nazarene University, but was a no-show nearly three hours later on the practice field. Urlacher, meanwhile, took repetitions during the early portion of practice devoted to individual position work before briefly wrapping his knee in ice and sitting out for the remainder of the workout.

Related: Brian Urlacher On New Knee Brace: 'It Drives Me Nuts'

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Target, RT Jeff Otah, Released By Carolina Panthers

According to the official Twitter account of the Carolina Panthers, RT Jeff Otah has been released:

#Bears had reportedly been interested. RT @panthers: The #Panthers have terminated the contract of T Jeff Otah.

— Adam Oestmann (@adamspeaks) August 2, 2012

The Chicago Bears, who sport one of the more troubled offensive lines in the league (9.4 percent sack-rate in 2011, second-worst in the league), were believed to have interest in Otah, a former first-round draft pick. The Panthers tried to trade him to the New York Jets, but the trade fell through when Otah's injury struggles resulted in two failed physicals.

Otah, 26, has not played since Week 5 of the 2011 NFL season, and he missed the entirety of the 2010 NFL season with injuries.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell Visits Bears Training Camp, Talks About Some League Issues

The Chicago Bears have been busy preparing for the upcoming NFL season during their training camp activities at Olivet Nazarene University, and on Wednesday NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell stopped by to meet with players, staff and fans as part of his four-site training camp tour prior to the Hall of Fame game.

Larry Mayer of ChicagoBears.com got the chance to speak with Goodell in a one-on-one setting about various issues across the league, including player safety measures, the league's rising popularity and even some recent criticisms from NFL players, so here is what he had to say:

Is Goodell excited about Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall, Matt Forte and a re-tooled Bears offense? Honestly, he didn't address the topic. Hopefully the Bears will force him to take notice in the very near future.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on theChicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

NFL Position Battles: J'Marcus Webb, Chris Williams Continue Battle At Left Tackle For Chicago Bears

Optimism is high for the Bears as the team continues to work its way through training camp, but Chicago's Super Bowl aspirations won't last long if the offensive line doesn't make strides. The group has been the Bears' clear Achilles heel since the team traded for quarterback Jay Cutler, but the line did see some improvement as last season went on.

The biggest battle for the Bears at training camp might be at left tackle between J'Marcus Webb and Chris Williams. The two players had been alternating days working with the first team at the spot, but that changed on Wednesday. Webb worked at left tackle for the second consecutive day, while Williams shared snaps at right tackle with 2011 first round draft pick Gabe Carimi.

Coaches insist the battle is far from over. Stay tuned.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Brian Urlacher On New Knee Brace: 'It Drives Me Nuts'

Chicago Bears Are Most Popular Super Bowl Bet At One Vegas Sportsbook

Bears Training Camp: Brian Price Endures Through Tragedies

New Chicago Bears DT Brian Price has had to deal with a lot of tragedy in his life -- he lost two brothers to gang violence and his sister to a hit-and-run accident earlier this year. Now he's forging on as best he can, and he's also taking care of his late sister's children.

"They got no mom, and their dad’s not in their life. I keep them busy and full of positive stuff."

Since Eric, 6, and Ja’Haun, 9, were born, Brian has been their primary father figure. He and his wife, Candice Davis Price, are adopting the boys. They arrived with Candice on Sunday at Olivet Nazarene University decked out in Bears apparel.

Related: Chicago Bears Training Camp: Stray Observations From A Day In Bourbonnais

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Chicago Bears Training Camp: Stray Observations From A Day In Bourbonnais

SB Nation Chicago's Ricky O'Donnell spent Sunday in lovely Bourbonnais, Illinois at Chicago Bears training camp. He noticed stuff.

Bears Training Camp 2012: Devin Hester Hurts Ankle On Friday, Will Practice On Sunday

On Friday at Bears training camp, wide receiver Devin Hester and safety Major Wright went up for a deep ball in a drill. As the two came down, Hester landed awkwardly and remained on the ground for a few minutes as he was attended to by trainers. Hester hurt his ankle on the play, and though he sat out of practice on Saturday, both Hester and coach Lovie Smith said that Hester will practice on Sunday.

Hester, who has once again been one of the main characters at training camp as Mike Tice looks to integrate him into the team's offense, classified Friday's injury as typical training camp fare:

"We're gonna have accidents like that," Hester said Friday just minutes after suffering the injury. "If you don't expect accidents, then you shouldn't play football. It's just the nature of the beast. There are gonna be accidents, even if we're playing touch."

(via ESPN Chicago)

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2012 Bears Roster: Chicago Signs CB Jeremy Ware, Waive PK Dave Teggart

According to Chicago Bears beat writer, Larry Mayer, Chicago has agreed to terms with CB Jeremy Ware while releasing kicker Dave Teggart:

LM: #Bears have signed CB Jeremy Ware and waived PK David Teggart.

— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) July 28, 2012

Ware entered the NFL via the 2010 NFL Draft as a 7th round selection by the Oakland Raiders. The 25-year-old corner played three seasons with the Michigan St. Spartans, collecting 2 interceptions and 13 pass deflections. He appeared in 8 games for the Raiders in 2010, deflecting 3 passes and intercepting another, but was waived before the 2011 NFL season.

Teggart, an undrafted free agent product from the Connecticut Huskies, finished his four-year collegiate career with a 76.3 completion rate.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Devin Hester Update: WR Will Continue To Return Kicks

Throughout his career, Devin Hester has electrified the NFL as one of the elite kick returners in the history of the league. With elite speed and vision, Hester is a threat to return any kick for a touchdown. However, with his natural gifts, the Bears have also focused on turning him into a threat as a WR. Despite his improvements as a receiver, Bears Special Teams coordinator Dave Toub confirmed to Zach Zaidman that Hester will continue with his role on special teams:

@ZachZaidman: Dave Toub says Devin Hester is number one kick returner and Eric Weems is 1A.

@ZachZaidman: Dave Toub says Devin Hester is his number 1 and 1A punt returner.

After recording at least 40 catches in three straight seasons, Hester only made 26 receptions last season, his fewest since the 2007 season. The Bears should have an improved WR core with Brandon Marshall coming over to the team from Miami.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on theChicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

New Bears DT Brian Price Passes Physical, Can Start Practice On Tuesday

The Chicago Bears acquired defensive tackle Brian Price from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the trade on Thursday, and the former 2010 second-round pick out of UCLA passed his team physical on Friday to finalize the deal.The 23-year-old DT started 14 games for the Buccaneers in 2011 -- he recorded 24 tackles and three sacks over 15 games played last season -- and now that he has been given a clean bill of health, Price will join the Bears for his first practice on Tuesday.

LM: Newly-acquired defensive tackle Brian Price has passed his physical with the #Bears.

— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) July 28, 2012

Brian Price can begin practice Tuesday. #Bears

— Sean Jensen (@seankjensen) July 28, 2012

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on theChicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

VIDEO: Matt Bowen Breaks Down Bears Training Camp, Gives Praise To TE Evan Rodriguez

The Chicago Bears won't have a full-pads practice at training camp until Saturday night, but Matt Bowen of the Chicago Tribune and National Football Post took the time to break down the early action from the first two days and set up some things to watch as camp progresses. With plenty of hype surrounding Jay Culter and Brandon Marshall, Bowen made an early point of saying that it's important to aim for big impressions before full pads go on and offensive players are forced to deal with some physicality from the defense. Still, he did mention that rookie tight end Evan Rodriguez has been very impressive early in camp and that he could emerge as a weapon during the year.

Here is the entire interview, via CSN-Chicago:

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VIDEO: Highlights From The 1st Day Of Bears Training Camp

Chicago Bears training camp got underway on Thursday, and there were plenty of fans there to take it all in. In the video below, the Bears' official website sets the scene for the first practice at Olivet Nazarene University.

Related: Chicago Bears 2012 Season: What Could Possibly Go Wrong?

There is plenty of excitement surrounding the Bears with Jay Cutler healthy and Brandon Marshall now in the fold, but SB Nation Bears blog Windy City Gridiron also recognizes that plenty of things could go wrong this season. One of WCG's concerns is the OL:

The worst is the offensive line. If the camp position battles drag on past the second preseason game, when is the line going to have time to gel? The worst thing that could happen is something like last year where they take four or five games to come together. Or even worse they might not gel at all.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Training Camp News: RB Michael Bush Reluctantly Accepts Short Yardage Role

The Chicago Bears -- hedging their bets against the possibility of a contract holdout from RB Matt Forte -- signed veteran RB Michael Bush in the 2012 offseason. The 6-foot-2, 243-pound Louisville native is expected to be the Bears' go-to back in the red zone in 2012. But, according to Bush, he'd rather be more of a complete back:

... Bush does not exactly embrace the short yardage role. "That’s the role I’ve been stuck with because of my size," he said. "But if that’s what I have to do, that’s what I have to do."

Asked if he dislikes that role, he said, "No one likes to be a battering ram. It just happens that way."

Bush has 2642 rushing yards in his four-year NFL career -- all with the Oakland Raiders. He ran for 977 yards and 7 touchdowns in 2011, and ranked as the 26th best running back in the league, according to advanced stats from Football Outsiders.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Need Weapons Around Jay Cutler To Produce If They Want To Make The NFL Playoffs

The Chicago Bears have finally given quarterback Jay Cutler some high-end options in the passing game, and now they have set their sights on a deep playoff run in 2012. Brandon Marshall may be the most talented wide receiver to ever wear a Bears uniform, and he will get some additional help from rookie WR Alshon Jeffery and running backs Matt Forte and Michael Bush. At least that's the plan as it appears on paper.

Ryan Van Bibber of SB Nation recently took a look at what would need to go right for each NFC team to make the playoffs, and he thinks the Bears are going to need each of those offensive weapons to produce at a high level:

The Bears will make the playoffs because Chicago finally found some help for Jay Cutler. Trading for Brandon Marshall gives Chicago a legitimate No. 1 receiver, their first since bringing Cutler over from Denver. Rookie Alshon Jeffery, a big man with plenty of raw talent, joins the rotation, while Earl Bennett and Devin Hester can work in the slot. This is not the same offense Mike Martz tired to run, not with viable targets for quick throws and a pair of running backs in Michael Bush and Matt Forte. It makes blitzing harder and helps keep Cutler upright behind an iffy line.

Van Bibber also points out the the schedule offers some relief at the beginning and end for the Bears, which could factor into the offense's ability to build momentum.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Training Camp 2012: Chicago WR Coach Thinks Devin Hester Was Misused

Chicago Bears wide receivers coach Darryl Drake believes that the team's old offensive schemes didn't properly use wide receiver Devin Hester, as Jeff Dickerson of ESPN Chicago writes. He thinks that Hester can significantly improve his numbers by playing in a system that fully takes advantage of his skills:

When you've got a great player, you've got to feed him. If Michael Jordan didn't touch the ball he'd have problems, you know because he would demand it. You've got to get him the ball, and you've got to feed him. And he's getting the ball, and he's feeling good about things right now.

Now, there certainly isn't a person in the world that would compare Hester greatness to that of Jordan, particularly as a wide receiver, but Drake presumably isn't the only one that believes he still has untapped potential. Last season, Hester caught just 26 balls, a solid drop from the 57 catches he made in 2009.

The Bears are expecting some significant, and positive, changes on offense this season. The team promoted Mike Tice to take over for Mike Martz as offensive coordinator, plus they've added new weapons on offense in Brandon Marshall, Michael Bush and Alshon Jeffery.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Training Camp 2012: Mike Tice Says Left Tackle Battle Is Still Open

The competition for the Chicago Bears' left tackle position is still wide open, as offensive coordinator Mike Tice told reporters on Thursday. ESPN Chicago's Michael C. Wright has the quotes from Tice, who ran the team's offensive line last year under former coordinator Mike Martz.

As Wright writes, Tice was firm in his denial that incumbent starter J'Marcus Webb is the front-runner, as former starting guard and first round pick Chris Williams is getting a legitimate look at the position as well. Williams has started 38 games for Chicago over the past three seasons, but he's missed ten games in the past two years due to injury.

A reliable performance from the offensive line this season would be huge for the Bears, as they're potentially looking at an unusually explosive offensive for the typically defensive-minded team. Jay Cutler has loads of weapons, including new wideout Brandon Marshall, so there's pressure on the line to make everything work.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on theChicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Brian Price Trade: Bears Give Up 2013 7th Round Pick For Buccaneers DT

The Chicago Bears are giving up a 2013 7th round pick in exchange for Tampa Bays defensive tackle Brian Price, as Adam Schefter of ESPN reports. Price, a 2010 second round pick out of UCLA, gives the Bears added depth on the defensive line.

According to Schefter, Price was "involved in a fracas" with Tampa Bay first round pick Mark Barron during the team's offseason program, and the team also had concerns about his health given a hamstring issue. The Bears are content to take a shot on him, though, given the relatively low cost.

Over 15 games with Tampa Bay last season, including 14 starts, the 23-year-old Price recorded 24 tackles and three sacks.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on theChicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Training Camp 2012: Brandon Marshall Says Relationship With Jay Cutler Is 'Like A Marriage'

Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall is excited to be reunited with quarterback Jay Cutler, but he also says that, like a marriage, their relationship is bound to go through some rough patches.

"And it’s not always fun," he said, drawing chuckles from the media. "It’s not always good. It’s one of those things it’s like a marriage. I was thinking about that earlier. In any relationship when you take two people from two different relationships and put them together, you butt heads. Sometimes we try to impose our own wills on one another. It’s just natural. ... But once you understand that there’s no right or wrong, it’s just two different people, I think that’s when a relationship gets better. With Jay and I, it’s always some work."

Related: Bears Roster: Chicago Trades For Buccaneers DT Brian Price

The Bears hit the field for the first practice of training camp on Thursday.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Roster: Chicago Trades For Buccaneers DT Brian Price

The Chicago Bears completed a trade on Thursday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter, getting DT Brian Price from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers:

Chicago traded a late-round pick to the Buccaneers for DT Brian Price, per sources.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 26, 2012

Price, a second round draft pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, started 14 games for the Bucs in the 2011 season. He collected 3.0 sacks and 20 tackles on a defensive line that ranked 26th in run prevention and 30th in pass protection according to Football Outsider's Adjusted Line Yards Rankings.

The Bears defensive line, which had a low sack-rate in 2011 (5%, or 5th worst in the NFL), ranked No. 1 in Football Outsider's run prevention rankings, but 29th in pass rushing.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

NFL Quarterback Rankings: Bears QB Jay Cutler Ranks No. 13 Of 32

Chicago Bears QB Jay Cutler came in at No. 13 in the latest rankings from SB Nation's Ryan Van Bibber, ahead of most of the league, but behind division rivals QB Aaron Rodgers and QB Matthew Stafford.

According to Van Bibber, Cutler -- and the new addition of QB Jason Campbell -- will only be as good as the players around him:

13. Chicago Bears

Jay Cutler is a victim of circumstance. In 2008, his third season, he started to put it all together throwing for 4,526 yards and 25 touchdowns. Then the Broncos hired Josh McDaniels who sent him off to Chicago. His receiving help has improved in Chicago this year, but he will still be asked to play behind the same offensive line that struggles with protection. Bringing in competent game manager Jason Campbell was a smart move by the Bears.

The Chicago Bears have already begun their 2012 Training Camp and hope to repeat the first half success they in 2011, during which they looked like legitimate Super Bowl contenders.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

2012 Bears Training Camp: Chicago Switches To iPad Playbooks

The Chicago Bears have taken a leap forward in their Training Camp technology. According to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, the Bears have traded in their analogue, paper playbooks for iPads. According to Bears tackle Game Carimi, the change is a welcome one:

"It’s more convenient because we don’t have to go in to watch film," Carimi said. "It all gets downloaded every day. So, the film that we have from the walk-through we just did, it’s all on here, so I can go watch it. That way you don’t have five guys at one (video) station trying to watch stuff and you can do it at your own pace. It’s pretty nice and I am a tech guy so I like this stuff."

The Bears are not the first team to adopt the tech-friendly switch, but it certainly marks the first time a Bears Training Camp has ever been without the thick, three-ring binders of summer. And in case the switch was too much for the players, the team has disabled Internet connectivity on each iPad in hopes of keeping the players focused on football, not Angry Birds.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Brian Urlacher On Chicago Bears: 'We're Stacked At Every Position'

Johnny Knox Injury: Bears Place WR On Active PUP List

The Chicago Bears have placed wide receiver Johnny Knox on the physically unable to perform list, according to Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune. By placing him on the PUP list, Knox will be able to participate in team meetings and use team facilities, but he can't actively practice on the field with the team.

On Dec. 18 of last year, Knox collided with Seattle's Anthony Hargrove and suffered a major back injury after literally being bent backwards on the play. The injury ended up requiring surgery, and at this point there's not an established timetable for the wideout's return.

For the time being, Knox can be placed back on the active roster at any time. If he's still on the PUP list at the beginning of the regular season, he'll be forced to sit out the first six games of the season.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Chicago Bears Training Camp: Can The Offensive Line Protect Jay Cutler?

With training camps hitting full gear around the country, SB Nation's Ryan Van Bibber took a look at the biggest question surrounding each NFL team as the season draws near. For the Chicago Bears, the big question is a pretty obvious one:

Chicago has dark horse written all over it this year, but do they have the linemen they need to keep Jay Cutler on his feet this year? The Bears are content to go with J'Marcus Webb on the left side, after he allowed 12 sacks in 2011. A healthy Gabe Carimi is being counted on to shore up the right side.

For the past couple years, the offensive line has been one of many issues on offense for Chicago. Now, with quality back-ups at key positions and some new weapons, the line is really the only obvious question mark.

The Bears have never really been known as an air-it-out kind of team, but they've never really had a quarterback that's as dynamic as Cutler. Considering that, getting good work out of the offensive line this year will be integral to Chicago's success.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on theChicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Chicago Bears Quarterback Jay Cutler Says He's Never Been So Comfortable With Scheme And Teammates

Jay Cutler has seen a lot of overturn in offensive coordinators over the course of his NFL career, and after two years of working with Mike Martz, Cutler is starting over again with Mike Tice. Tice has been the Bears' offensive line coach the last two seasons, and now inherits play calling duties from Martz, the purported 'genius' who Cutler never saw eye-to-eye with.

Apparently Cutler is digging the change. As the Bears arrived in training camp on Tuesday, Cutler said he's never felt so comfortable before.

"This is the most comfortable I think I've been going into a camp with the offense and what we are doing scheme-wise and the talent around me," Cutler said on Tuesday." You can say this is the most comfortable I've been."

Cutler had this to say about Tice's coaching philosophy.

"That's a good question," Cutler said. I've seen Mike explode on guys, I've seen Mike pull guys to the side and talk to them quietly. I think Mike does a really good job of knowing what you need, what type of player you are, if you're a yell-at-them type of guy or a pull-them-aside guy. He can coach me however. I think we are all in it for the same reasons. He's excited about this offense and so am I. It's just going to be a matter of working together and (reaching) some common ground on stuff.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

2012 Chicago Bears Training Camp: OC Mike Tice Is Ready To Mold An 'Elite Offense' In 2012

The Chicago Bears have loaded up on talent during the offseason, and now it's up to new offensive coordinator Mike Tice to turn integrate Michael Bush, Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery into an offense with high expectations in 2012. Training camp starts soon, and Tice believes he knows how to build an elite group out of the players at his disposal. He has carried a reputation as a run-first coach for quite while, but with Jay Cutler as his quarterback, he told Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune that he's out to mold an explosive offense:

"I know there is a certain way to win football games in this league, been in it a long time, and I think I have earned the right to say I've had a good track record everywhere I have been."

"I've helped establish some good offenses over my career and I've played in some good offenses over my career. I think I know what a good offense looks like. At the end of the day, we're going to have a certain personality and at the end of the day it will be one of explosiveness and one of intelligence and one of rhythm and one of tempo and one of enthusiasm. You have to have all of those to be an elite offense."

Quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates will be at his side and ready to help recapture the magic Cutler and Marshall found back in Denver, but there is no question that the offense will be based on Tice's design and philosophy. Be careful in assuming it will be a run-first unit, however. Tice appears primed to help the Bears surprise everyone.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Chicago Bears Report To Training Camp Today, Begin Practices On Thursday

The Chicago Bears are back. The team reports to Bourbonnais on Tuesday and will begin practices without pads on Thursday. After the Bulls and Blackhawks were each eliminated in the first round of the playoffs and the Cubs have floundered around last place in the NL Central all season, the return of the Bears is certainly a welcome sight.

Here's a look at the tentative practice schedule for the Bears in training camp.

July 26: 2:30 p.m. (NO PADS)
July 27: 2:30 p.m. (NO PADS)
July 28: 7 p.m.
July 29: 2 p.m.
July 31: 2:30 p.m.
Aug. 1: 2:30 p.m.
Aug. 2: 2 p.m.
Aug. 3: 7 p.m. (Soldier Field)
Aug. 5: 2 p.m.
Aug. 6: 2:30 p.m.
Aug. 7: 2 p.m.
Aug. 11: 2 p.m.
Aug. 12: 2:30 p.m.
Aug. 13: 7 p.m.
Aug. 14: 2 p.m.
Aug. 16: 2 p.m.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

2012 Bears News: Chicago Wanted DE Bruce Irvin, Got DE Shea McClellin

According to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Bears may have been a bit disappointed in their top overall selection in the 2012 NFL Draft. Biggs is reporting the Bears had initially targeted DE Bruce Irvin over DE Shea McClellin, but Irvin ended up going a few picks before McClellin:

One source maintains the [Chicago Bears] was hoping to land Bruce Irvin, the West Virginia product the Seahawks selected 16th overall. [Lovie] Smith personally had scouted Irvin, an undersized pass rusher who some considered a reach at any point in the first round.

McClellin is slated to be a key component of the Bears' defensive line rotation, though not a starter, in the 2012 NFL season. Biggs also says that, as the first pick of new general manager Phil Emery, McClellin has added pressure to perform well, suggesting he may get additional playing than would be typical in Smith's defense.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Rookie WR Alshon Jeffery Will Be Effective In Red Zone, According To ESPN Scouts Inc. Expert

The Chicago Bears expect to have a more explosive offense this season now that Brandon Marshall, Jay Cutler, Matt Forte and Michael Bush have been grouped together, but don't forget about rookie wide receiver Alshon Jeffery. Gary Horton of ESPN's Scouts Inc. recently wrote an article about NFL rookie WRs in the best situations for 2012, and Jeffery made the list. With Earl Bennett expected to play the slot, Horton thinks Jeffery will open the season as the starting "Z" receiver, opposite Brandon Marshall.

Furthermore, he expects Jeffery to make the most of his size and ability to track high balls very early in his career by becoming an instant red zone threat. Here is a bit of what Horton had to say:

Jeffery has size, is good at tracking the high ball and will be effective in the red zone, but he is a guy like Marshall who builds speed as he goes and can't get sloppy in his routes...Jay Cutler is certainly willing to take chances, and he'll throw it up for Jeffery. That could mean a lot of red zone targets, even if he doesn't have a huge number of catches.

If the Bears' 2012 second-round pick can make that sort of impact in the red zone during his first season, it could be a very good year for the offensive unit.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

The Chicago Bears' Super Bowl Aspirations Hinge On Continued Improvement From The Offensive Line

Former Bears quarterback Jim Miller believes Chicago has the best offensive line in the NFC North. SB Nation Chicago's Ricky O'Donnell thinks he better be correct, or the Bears won't be able to reach their lofty goals.

Chicago Bears Training Camp Schedule: Team Starts Practice In Bourbonnais On July 26

Don't get it twisted: Chicago is a football town through and through. This city loves the Bears more than the rest of the tired stereotypes tied to our humble metropolis combined.

Related: O'Donnell: The Annual False Hope Of Devin Hester, Wide Receiver

On Tuesday, we learned when you can finally book that trip to Bourbonnais: the Bears will host training camp at the campus of Olivet Nazarene University from July 26-Aug. 16. This will be the 11th year the Bears have been away from Platteville, Wis., a place I spent many underwhelming childhood vacations.

Here's a look at the team's training camp schedule:

July 26: 2:30 p.m. (NO PADS)
July 27: 2:30 p.m. (NO PADS)
July 28: 7 p.m.
July 29: 2 p.m.
July 31: 2:30 p.m.
Aug. 1: 2:30 p.m.
Aug. 2: 2 p.m.
Aug. 3: 7 p.m. (Soldier Field)
Aug. 5: 2 p.m.
Aug. 6: 2:30 p.m.
Aug. 7: 2 p.m.
Aug. 11: 2 p.m.
Aug. 12: 2:30 p.m.
Aug. 13: 7 p.m.
Aug. 14: 2 p.m.
Aug. 16: 2 p.m.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.