As Bears training camp has come to a close, there’s plenty to reflect on from their time in Bourbonnais.
While there weren’t any pressing concerns for a team coming off a 12-4 — aside from kicker — there were still some storylines that stole the show at camp.
Whether it was the progress of Mitch Trubisky in year two of the offense or the defense’s adjustment to Chuck Pagano’s scheme or the ongoing kicker saga or some breakout offensive weapons, there was plenty to watch in Bourbonnais.
Here are five takeaways from Bears training camp:
1. There’s no frontrunner in the Bears’ kicker competition
Despite an encouraging kicker battle this summer, there was no definitive winner, or even leader, as the Bears wrapped training camp.
Both Elliott Fry and Eddy Pineiro were solid in practice, but even practice kicks aren’t enough. While both have their strengths — Fry: consistency and Pineiro: leg strength — neither has been able to pull ahead in the competition.
As the Bears head into their final three preseason games, there’s an overwhelming need for one of these guys to step up in a big way. If the Bears are going to continue to rotate kickers during these preseason games, Fry and Pineiro need to be aware their opportunities are few and far between. And it might ultimately be the preseason that’s the determining factor in all of this.
2. Mitch Trubisky’s struggles are no reason to panic
There’s an overwhelming desire for some to overly criticize third-year quarterback Mitch Trubisky, whatever reason that might be. Whether it was because he was the first QB taken in a draft class that consists of Pat Mahomes and Deshaun Watson or that he hasn’t flashed immediate star power.
And while without context Trubisky’s training camp might seem like a red flag viciously waving, it wasn’t as bad as it seemed. Trubisky was light years ahead of where he was at this point last year, and you could see it in his understanding of this offense, chemistry with returning receivers and checks at the line.
Trubisky had the benefit of going up against probably the best defense he’ll face all season, and while his continued struggles with the deep ball leave room for doubt, you can’t overreact to training camp.
3. The Bears defense is jelling in Chuck Pagano’s scheme
As the Bears make the transition from Vic Fangio to Chuck Pagano, there was concern how the defense would adjust. But they put those doubts to rest with a dominant training camp performance.
The defense easily won training camp, as it should. This is one of the best defensive units in the league returning all but one starter — and you could argue his replacement might be better.
The Bears defense consistently frustrated the offense throughout practices, and with players like Khalil Mack and Roquan Smith in their first training camps, expect big years from them. This entire defense is ready to play the Packers now.
4. running back David Montgomery is exactly as advertised
There was a lot of hype surrounding the drafting of running back David Montgomery. He showed exactly why GM Ryan Pace moved up in the draft to select him in the third-round throughout training camp.
Whether it was him mowing down defenders or displaying his vision and contact balance, Montgomery showed how he can be a versatile threat in this Bears offense looking to break out.
While Montgomery started as third-string on the team’s first unofficial depth chart, considering his camp performance — and preseason debut — you have to believe it won’t be long until he’s the featured back.
5. Receiver Javon Wims has earned a roster spot
If there was any question as to whether second-year receiver Javon Wims would make the Bears roster, he all but put those doubts to rest with his impressive camp performance.
With a receivers room as loaded as the Bears’, there are obviously going to be some players on the outside looking in. Even if the Bears ultimately wind up keeping seven receivers.
But Wims is not one of them. He’s showcased his size, speed and go-up-and-get-it ability that should make him a weapon in this offense.
