There were questions and concerns when the first week of camp finished last year. The offense sputtered. The timing on passes was inconsistent at best. Injuries already had sidelined some players. There were little positive vibes as the team tried to acclimate to new coaches and schemes.
Reports from Halas Hall seemed to report every bad play, penalty, and interception as camp rolled on. This year is completely different. There is a positive vibe in Lake Forest, and fans are delighted with every positive report coming from Halas Hall. There have been penalties, incompletions, and interceptions this year, but they have been almost an afterthought. The focus this year has been on positive news. That positive news has been flowing regularly.
After last season ended, Bears QB Justin Fields vowed to work on his weaknesses, including ball release, footwork, timing, and reading what the defense was doing. As this week came to a close, he has apparently improved all game phases. He has assumed a leadership role on this team, and the team is responding. His chemistry with DJ Moore is the talk of camp. If that translates to the regular season, this offense could be the most prolific fans have ever seen.
Many player's have been mentioned by the coaches and even teammates for their hustle and great play. Second-year WR Velus Jones, Jr. has shown confidence and maturity on the field. That bodes well for his chances to make the team, and his electrifying kick returns will also be a welcome site this year.
The Top 3 Surprises
Tyler Scott
In addition to the DJ Moore connection with Fields, we also see plays made by all the receivers. Most prominent among them has been rookie Tyler Scott. Scott is quickly proving to be one of the draft's biggest steals and is everything the Bears hoped for. His blazing speed is on regular display at camp. The defensive backs have even complained about getting beat. He has dropped a few passes on short routes, and it will take time for him to adjust to the speed of the NFL and the velocity of passes thrown to him, but his talent has been on full display at camp.
Ryan Poles traded up in the second round to grab CB Tyrique Stevenson. As soon as he arrived, he quickly ascended the depth chart and will likely begin the season as the starting corner opposite Jaylon Johnson. Tyrique is fast and has a quick burst out of breaks. He has played with the starters during camp's first week. This allows Kyler Gordon to slip into the nickel spot, which is a better fit. If the defensive backfield stays healthy, it is most likely the strongest defensive unit.
D'Anthony Jones
The scouting departments spend countless hours reviewing videos, stats, and interviews to draft the best player each year. Undrafted players make a name for themselves every year and earn a spot on an NFL roster. At Lake Forest, one UFDA making an early statement is edge rusher D'Anthony Jones. He has taken advantage of most opportunities in camp. Although sacks aren't a real stat in camp, he was credited with 3 "sacks" at today's practice.
The team will be back on the field Saturday. Practice is scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM. There will be no practice on Sunday.
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