The Bears Den: May 28, 2014 - Chicago Bears OTAs news & notes

OTAs offer glimpse into Bears' defensive future - Matt Bowen: Watching the veteran free-agent signees, there is no question Tucker now has the creative flexibility to use multiple fronts.

McClellin excited about switch to LB - Michael C. Wright: For the most part, Shea McClellin looked natural Tuesday at LB, and teammates believe he can successfully transition into his new role. Brad Biggs: Says new position a more 'natural fit' than DE. Moon Mullin: Versatility an asset.

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Bearsss

Allen energized by joining Bears - Larry Mayer: An NFC North rival for the past six seasons, Jared Allen was ecstatic to practice for the first time with the Bears Tuesday. Bob LeGere: Allen not lacking for motivation.

Briggs loves defense's veteran presence - Hub Arkush: Expects big bounce back after roster makeover that delivered new projected starters. [Video] from ChicagoBears.com.

'Hidden season' will be crucial for Bears' new D-line - Moon Mullin: While the offense is largely intact from last season, from the standpoints of personnel, coaches and scheme, the D-line is significantly different in all three of those standpoints.

Kromer, Meyer to oversee O-line - Brad Biggs: Pat Meyer was promoted to O-line coach this offseason and OC Aaron Kromer will be more involved with the passing game, but Kromer still will oversee the work in the trenches.

Jennings playing slot CB on first day of OTAs - Arthur Arkush: In addition to matching up with receivers, the inside CB is also required to be a physical, fearless run defender – an area where Jennings has shined.

[Video] View from the Moon - Chris Boden & Moon Mullin discuss McClellin's move to LB and analyze the Fuller/Jennings position swap.

Observations from OTAs - Michael C. Wright: KR/PR Chris Williams easily the quickest among the team's receiving corps. More from Adam Hoge.

Observations from OTAs - Kevin Fishbain: UDFA Christian Jones got to run a bit with the second-team defense, with Shea McClellin calling out plays from MLB.

[Video] CSNChicago discussion - What to expect from the defense, and how many QBs will they keep on the roster? [KAPCON: 5]

D.J. Williams, Derrick Martin absent from team's first OTA - Michael C. Wright: Four more players held out of Tuesday's session. Brad Biggs: Slauson rehabbing from shoulder surgery.

Injury news - Michael C. Wright: WR/KR Domenik Hixon tears ACL at OTAs, his third such injury. Moon Mullin: Wrong step ended a route and possibly a career [with Video].

[Video] ChicagoBears.com - Highlights from the Bears' first OTA practice.

Photos - Bears at OTAs, from ChicagoBears.com and the Tribune.

Which NFL teams have the most hope for the future? - Mike Tanier: The fact that Chicago's offense improved drastically was an encouraging sign. Fixing defense? That's something that comes naturally for the Bears.

Butkus, Hampton among HOFers set for Chicago 'Salute to Greatness' - Moon Mullin: Event tees off next month at the Glen Club, with a local charity benefiting from a number of the game’s Hall of Famers on hand to help out.

Sun-Times Bears section here.

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Polish sausage

Playbook install - Matt Bowen on the learning curve for rookies and some key aspects of the playbook that will allow them to line up, adjust and execute complex schemes at the pro level.

Know thy enemy: Packers - Paul Imig: After being drafted by the Packers, it didn't take Ha Ha Clinton-Dix long to realize there's a great opportunity for him to start at safety as a rookie.

Know thy enemy: Lions - Justin Rogers: Jim Caldwell treats Lions players like men, expects personal accountability. [Good luck with that. - Den]

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(Insert fart joke here.)