Ryan Poles' work on rebuilding the Bears roster into one that can compete for championships took another huge leap to respectability over the last 48 hours. The Marquee signing on Thursday finally got the missing piece, a major presence on the defensive edge, when the team announced they had signed Yannick Ngakoue to a one-year contract.
Poles also added veteran TE Marcedes Lewis. Give credit to Poles for this move. On the surface, the Lewis signing doesn't fit the mold he has used as he rebuilds this roster, mainly due to his age. At 39, he is the oldest member of the team. Lewis was signed for his blocking. He can line up on either side of the line providing a sixth blocker. The Bears led the NFL in rushing last year. A strong running game will open up opportunities for Fields and the Getsy passing attack.
Yannick Ngakoue was long rumored to be the edge rusher Poles was targeting. The signing brings a 7 year veteran who has averaged almost 10 sacks per year. He is familiar with the scheme the Bears use and can make an immediate impact on what already is a much improved defense. The defensive line only tallied 10.5 sacks in 2022.
Marcedes Lewis is the fourth Green Bay offensive player to rejoin Getsy in Chicago, following receiver Equanimeous St. Brown, guard/center Lucas Patrick and tight end Robert Tonyan.
After a much needed day off, the Bears returned to the practice field Friday. They worked out in shells after two straight days in full pads. The offense used the off-day to their advantage. After the defense dominated Wednesday, the offense responded to QB Justin Fields challenge to bring renewed energy to the practice field. The offense responded by celebrating every touchdown in similar fashion to how the defense chirped during Wednesday's dominance.
The Best Player On The Field Is Someone You Weren't Expecting
The chemistry between Fields and D J Moore has stolen the headlines during training camp. That chemistry bodes well for the passing game. Tyler Scott continues to show up every day with his speed and his ability to quickly learn to set up the man guarding him to get open. It is Chase Claypool that has been the best player in camp. His size and speed has been on display every day. He gets open, makes contested catches and uses his body to shield defenders in order to make a reception. He is proving to be everything Poles hoped he would be.
News and Notes
After practice several teammates enjoyed a spirited water balloon fight to blow off steam.
The last three days of training camp open to the public will be Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, August 8-10. Dates open to public viewing were limited due to the team heading to Indianapolis early for joint workouts with the Colts, leading up to their game on Saturday, August 19.
Good news for out of town fans: NFL Network is broadcasting the Bears first two preseason games live.
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