Trestman: We want to run 100 more plays this year - Marc Trestman wants the Bears to speed up the offensive pace and get the ball in its playmakers’ hands more often. Plus, his thoughts on the Bears’ confidence and the new defensive coaches, among other topics [with Audio].
At long last, a good day on defense - Moon Mullin: OK, yes, it was only practice. But it’s worth noting because it’s been a long, long time since the Bears could say they had a very, very good day on defense. Rich Campbell: Defensive depth chart takes shape.
Roster news - Michael C. Wright: The Bears signed guard/center Dylan Gandy to a one year contract on Friday, and waived DE Jamil Merrell.
Follow WCG on Twitter; like us on Facebook (& click on 'Subscribed to'). Do eeet. Check out David "OSS" Taylor's CheekyMonkeyArt prints and t-shirts. Den pic in hi-res.
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Bears training camp, day 1
Kyle Fuller shines on Day 1 - Jeff Dickerson: It's early, but Fuller sure looked like an NFL-ready DB on Friday. Not-Hub Arkush: Size, instincts and playmaking ability all on display. Chris Emma: Fuller offers poise, promise for Bears ... [Video] Fuller's diving interception.
Allen confident in revamped defense - Larry Mayer: Unconcerned about what transpired last year with the Bears defense, Jared Allen sees a unit that possesses all of the components to excel this season.
Allen plans to lead by example - Bob LeGere: It hasn't taken long for five-time Pro Bowl DE Jared Allen to establish himself as a leader by example on a Bears defense looking to rebound from a disastrous 2013 season. Michael C. Wright: Allen a catalyst on Day 1.
Team notes - Larry Mayer: Kyle Fuller intercepted two passes in his first NFL training camp practice in Bourbonnais, while Chris Williams provided the offensive highlight by hauling in a long pass from Palmer down the right sideline. Plus, more from Friday's session [Video report].
Team notes - Bob LeGere: Rookie CB Kyle Fuller has eye-opening first day; Shea McClellin transitioning from DE to LB; more notes from Friday's opening practice of camp.
Team notes - Chris Emma: Defense shows energy on day 1; McClellin comfortable at linebacker; more from practice.
[Video] View from the Moon - Moon Mullin: Shea McClellin looking very strong blitzing from LB, Lamarr Houston getting some clean wins in pass-rushing.
Team notes - Michael C. Wright with a recap of highlights from the first day of Bears training camp.
Team notes - Not-Hub Fishbain's roundup of Friday's session. How did the backup wide receivers fare?
Team notes - Rich Campbell with observations about Marquess Wilson, Chris Williams, and more.
Team notes - Moon Mullin: Marquess Wilson and Cornelius Washington make plays in practice; roster moves.
[Video] ChicagoBears.com - Marc Trestman addresses the media Friday afternoon, recapping the Bears' first training camp practice.
[Video] ChicagoBears.com - Highlights from the Bears' first practice of training camp.
Photos - Bears at practice on day 1 and signing autographs, from ChicagoBears.com and the Tribune.
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Bearsss
Bears committed to a Forte-first approach in 2014 - Patrick Finley: Short of Jay Cutler, whom the offense prioritizes protecting at all costs, Matt Forte is the Bears’ most irreplaceable offensive star this season.
McClellin convinced he belongs at LB - Jeff Dickerson: With his speed and athleticism Shea McClellin should greatly benefit from having more open field to work with, especially when he is asked to blitz.
Rookie DTs bonding like Long, Mills - Michael C. Wright: Kyle Long and Jordan Mills bonded almost immediately as rookies in 2013, and a similar development seems to be afoot at training camp with Ego Ferguson and Will Sutton.
$1 could make difference for two Bears - Brad Biggs: Brian de la Puente and Nate Collins are both signed for above the veteran minimum, meaning the Bears can negotiate a new contract with them during the league year.
NFL, family salute Walter Payton on his birthday - Fred Mitchell: On what would have been Walter Payton's 60th birthday, friends, family and the NFL remembered the Hall of Fame Chicago Bears running back. Sweetness photogallery from ChicagoBears.com.
[Video] ChicagoBears.com - Jarrett Payton's thoughts on his father, Bears fans.
Sun-Times Bears section here.
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Ditka
Ditka - Ditka speaks. You listen.
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Polish sausage
Know thy enemy: Vikings - Ben Goessling from day 1 of Vikings training camp: Session wasn't terribly impressive for any of the QBs as Cassel, Bridgewater and Ponder all misfired on a number of downfield throws.
Know thy enemy: Vikings - Ben Goessling: DE Brian Robison among those who believe the Vikings needed to mix things up and move away from the Cover-2 base defense: "There were some times (when) Aaron Rodgers is calling out our defense as we line up."
Know thy enemy: Lions - Sid Saraf: Reggie Bush says Jim Caldwell brings a 'championship mentality' to Detroit without any yelling, screaming, or histrionics.
Know thy enemy: Packers - Paul Imig: As Mike McCarthy gets set to begin his ninth season as head coach of the Packers, he's not settling on what he's done in the past but rather is evolving his approach.
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Yippee oy-vey!