If the Bears are to get a big year from a pass rusher, it will have to come from returning starters Alex Brown and Michael Haynes. The Bears flirted with major changes at defensive end, but Haynes is in only his second season and Brown his third.
That puts Brown, especially, on the spot. The third season is when many players establish their niches. And Brown plays the classic pass-rushing position, right end.
General manager Jerry Angelo has identified Brown as one of the key elements of the defense. Brown knows it’s his time. “I have to make plays,” he said.
New coach Lovie Smith has a number in mind.
“When you talk defensive ends, you start with 10,” Smith said. “If you say you’re a good pass rusher, you have to be a double-digit-sack guy.”
Said line coach Karl Dunbar: “The defense this year is more suited to defensive linemen. Last year they basically maintained blocks for the linebackers. We’ll do that, too, but we want them to be more aggressive.”
The Bears are counting on seeing a faster Brown after he recovers from a strained calf that is keeping him out of workouts. He has lost 20 pounds and is down to 262.
“He’s quicker just from getting those pounds off,” Smith said. “He knows a lot more with another year’s experience. He’s worked hard. It’s not just [losing] weight; he’s done a great job in the weight room. That’s why it’s disappointing that he got an early injury. But we think … he should have a better year.”
BEARS TRACKER
Other news of the day
Dare we say that wide receiver David Terrell has taken a workmanlike approach to practice so far and strung together a few days’ worth of consistent showings.
Injuries
Cornerback Jerry Azumah left training camp Monday for Pittsburgh to get a second medical opinion after suffering a neck stinger last week. Guard Rex Tucker was off for the third of four practices.
Words to live by
“This year I’m going to listen to my body a little more.”–Rex Tucker
Bourbonnais weather
Monday’s high was 83. Tuesday’s forecast: High of 83 with a 30 percent chance of isolated thunderstorms.
Rex Grossman news
Grossman’s most impressive play of the day came when he sold a handoff left, concealed the ball and took off untouched on a bootleg right.
Job fight
For the time being, right guard Terrence Metcalf edged ahead of eight-time Pro Bowler Ruben Brown, who was sore.
Scouting report on famous bears not in camp
Huggy Bear, DB
He was jocked by many sucka universities, but the original playa preferred to be a free agent off the streets. He can play anywhere in the secondary, just not nickel and dime–only big bills. His natural position is street-corner back. He’s smooth while playing the field, despite platform cleats.
Fan overreaction meter
Gauging the average Bears fan’s expectations today. 2003-(7-9)
Next up
A 7:10 p.m. practice on Tuesday.
