Chicago Bears

Less than 72 hours after OLB

Pernell McPhee opened camp on the physically unable-to-perform list, the Bears took out a valuable insurance policy by rewarding fellow OLB Willie

Young with a two-year contract extension.

Young, who turns 31 Sept. 19, has led the Bears with 161⁄ sacks 2 the past two seasons despite a December 2014 Achilles tendon tear and a move from 4-3 end to 3-4 outside linebacker last season.

“It’s our first contract extension here, so excited about that,” general manager Ryan Pace said. “Excited for Willie, excited for the Bears. ... He’s a productive player, he’s a good player and most importantly he’s a good teammate.”

With McPhee still recovering from an offseason procedure on the balky left knee that hampered his production in the second half of last season, Young is the Bears’ best pass rusher and a important mentor for top pick Leonard Floyd. Rookie watch: Floyd exited his first camp practice on a cart because of illness but was back on the field showing off his long and explosive frame in pass rush drills the next day. … Seventh-round slot receiver Daniel Braverman hasn’t wasted time showing off his quickness and separation skills from the slot. Braverman is vying for the No. 4 receiving role.

Noteworthy: The Bears breathed a sigh of relief when three-time Pro Bowler Kyle

Long, who had a calf injury and was in a walking boot after the first day of practice, appeared to avoid serious injury. “You know how he is, you’ve got to hold him back a little bit, but it’s positive (news) on Kyle,” Pace said.