The Bears Den: May 18, 2010

Manning and Steltz worked with the first team during voluntary offseason workouts, but it’s likely the Bears will roll out several combinations at the position during minicamp. It’s believed that the Bears envision using Manning mostly at strong safety this season, which would mean Harris, Wright and Steltz could be fighting for the open spot at free safety.

I think he has this way wrong. Chris Harris is the starting SS, and everyone else is fighting for the FS spot.

I loved the fishing story. Thanks for sharing it.

Jay Cutler will be on the Waddle and Silvy Show at the noon hour. ESPN 1000.

Link pops.

1. Jay Cutler’s progress learning the new offense:

Kurt Warner was bagging groceries before he was signed to the Rams and he seemed to pick the offense up pretty quickly. Jon Kitna wasn’t a stellar NFL QB in his time with the Bengals, but he looked Marino-like in Detroit with Martz at the helm. Saying that to say…

… The FAR more talented Cutler should do well in Martz system; It’s his “attitude” that concerns me.

2. Is Brian Urlacher fully recovered?:

I think so. In fact, I think the entire season of rest should not only have done his neck and back some good, but allowed for him to strengthen and rest his body. Ray Lewis is essentially the same type of LB that Urlacher is and is playing far above the expectations that most analysts have set for his career. Although Urlacher might not be the Urlacher of 2001-2002, I think Urlacher will be closer to the Urlacher of 2006 and have a productive season in ’10.

3. The new-look defensive line:

I have concerns here, because of the Nose position. I like Adams, but for some reason, he doesn’t get the same respect from the coaches. Harrison will probably get many looks and opportunities this TC and I would dare say it’s “his job to lose”. I also have concerns at the other end position.

4. The combinations at safety:

How about the ENTIRE secondary!?

Where is there any consistency or stability in the secondary? (Please, Bears fans… Don’t say Charles Tillman)

5. How the receivers progress in Martz’s system:

I still believe this is the strong -suit of the team, because it has the most potential and is the most essential in the Martz offense. There are so many “question marks” surrounding this team, that if Cutler doesn’t connect with these receivers, then that will ultimately be the downfall of the season. Martz, Angelo, and Smith believe in this group strongly and their actions seem to support that notion.

Matt Bowen breaks down the Cover-3 here.

With Ditka

will that stage show be recorded,does anyone know. i would love to watch it but i can’t see it coming to england.: (