Rodgers can reward Bears for their faith
A spate of injuries has led to more opportunities for young Bears players since training camp opened. But at running back, it’s the oldest player in the room who’s benefitting.
Jacquizz Rodgers, 26 and in his sixth NFL season, has played more with quarterback Jay
Cutler and the first- team offense while starter Jeremy Langford deals with a sore foot and top reserve Ka’Deem Carey remains limited after a concussion.
Rodgers hasn’t produced much in two preseason games, but the Bears always have been high on him, starting with his prowess on special teams, and he’s considered a more reliable receiver and blocker for thirddown situations than some of the younger backs. The Bears also re- signed him after he broke his arm last season.
“Quizz was a big part of what we were doing early last year, and then he got injured,” coach John
Fox said Sunday after practice at Halas Hall. “He’s a real pro’s pro, as far as how he approaches the game. He’s a leader in that running back room.
“He’s a big contributor on fourth down [ for special teams], as well as a guy who can go in and tote the rock. We didn’t get a lot of looks at that last year, [ but] I’ve liked what I’ve seen this year.”
Thanks, Patriots
Receiver Alshon Jeffery was happy he had a few days to practice last week against feisty New England Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler, who excels in press coverage.
“Coach Fox always says practice like you’re in a game, so that will make the game easy,” Jeffery said.
His 29- yard catch over Patriots cornerback Justin Coleman on the Bears’ second play Thursday was a result of those practices.
“We were making plays all week in practice,” Jeffery said, “so we thought we’d give it a shot in the game, and it worked out.”
On the return
Though veteran Marc
Mariani, the No. 1 punt returner, has the experience, rookie receivers Kieren Duncan and
Daniel Braverman also are candidates for the kick return while Deonte Thompson is sidelined by an ankle injury.
Duncan returned two kickoffs for 45 yards against the Patriots.
“You get a chance to look at some other guys,” Fox said. “We’re still looking in both the return games, kick and punt.”