Bears coach Lovie Smith had little to say Friday regarding a San Diego Union-Tribune story about rookie lineman Lance Louis, who is reportedly under investigation for felony battery stemming from a Nov. 5 fight with then-San Diego State teammate Nick Sanford. No charges have been filed.
“Of course we’re aware of the situation,” Smith said. “It’s pretty hard to address something when no one has been charged. Until something comes up, there’s not a whole bunch to say about it.”
The Bears were aware of the fight before drafting Louis in the seventh round in April but also knew no charges or school penalty resulted from it.
Louis said he has been advised not to talk about the situation. He talked only about his progress on the field during training camp at Olivet Nazarene.
“I’m just glad to be here,” he said. “It’s going good for me right now. I love it here. The coaches are giving me an opportunity.”
The 6-foot-3-inch Louis, listed at 305 pounds, has a chance to make the 53-man roster at guard. The Bears kept eight offensive linemen last season.
Extra points: Devin Hester and Tommie Harris sat out with what Smith called general soreness. Smith said they would practice Saturday for Family Day at Soldier Field. … Hester said there’s no doubt Danieal Manning will handle kickoff returns this year. … Manning and Kevin Payne returned to practice from hamstring injuries, while Charles Tillman (back), Zack Bowman (hamstring), and Hunter Hillenmeyer (ankle, elbow) remained out. … Orlando Pace returned after sitting Thursday but participated only in individual drills. … Jamar Williams got the first-team reps at strong-side linebacker ahead of Pisa Tinoisamoa. … Josh Beekman remained with the first team at left guard. … Corey Graham saw action at left cornerback with Manning back at nickel. … Josh Bullocks had his second interception in as many days, while Woodny Turenne also had one.
