Aug. 04--Position battle:
Slot cornerback
Tim Jennings, while still operating outside his comfort zone, continues gaining a greater understanding of what's needed from him in the slot. His vision is sharpening and his ability to react more quickly has been obvious. Overall, the 31-year-old veteran believes he's far more in sync now than he was in the early stages of organized team activities in the spring. He enjoys the aggressive nature of Vic Fangio's new defense. And while he's still getting used to covering the whole field as a slot corner, he also has a better feel for where his help is and for how to gain ideal leverage in coverage. "With my knowledge and my experience," Jennings said, "I should fit well."
Demontre Hurst and veteran Tracy Porter are adding to the competition at slot cornerback. And both have more experience playing inside than Jennings. Hurst spent his rookie season in 2013 on the practice squad, then played in 15 games last season, recording an interception against the Falcons. When exhibition games begin later this month, Hurst will have to take full advantage of his opportunities to win over a new coaching staff.
Seen and heard
While taking a quick break Monday to get a cold towel, tight end Martellus Bennett engaged a young fan nearby who was missing a tooth. "Did the tooth fairy visit?" Bennett asked the boy. "Did she leave you money?" The boy smiled and held up an open palm while answering: "Five dollars." Bennett paused and looked back. "That's nice," he said. "But tell her you want $5 million more. Make sure to let her know you feel underpaid."
Not so fast
Bennett appeared to have an easy touchdown catch during team drills when he broke a route to the inside and gained positioning on cornerback Kyle Fuller. Yet just as Jay Cutler's pass arrived in Bennett's hands, Fuller recovered, worked his right hand to the ball and jarred it away before Bennett could complete the grab.
Injury report
WR Alshon Jeffery (right shoulder) sat out practice.
CB Alan Ball (foot) sat out practice.
TE Brian Vogler (foot) left practice.
TE Zach Miller (stinger) left practice but later returned.
TE Martellus Bennett (upset stomach) left practice but returned.
OLB Willie Young (Achilles) was limited.
WR Kevin White (shin) remains on the physically-unable-to-perform list.
QB David Fales (illness) remains on the non-football illness list.
Camp schedule
Tuesday: No practice
Wednesday: Practice, 11:15 a.m.
Thursday: Practice, 9:35 a.m.
