Bears Open Training Camp

By Benjy Lipsman in News on Jul 26, 2006 5:12PM

As we alluded to the other day, the Bears open their training camp today at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois.

Unlike last year's opening of camp, there will be little controversy this year. All of the Bears' draft picks have signed and will be in camp. All the veterans are expected to report on time, even those -- like Lance Briggs -- who have expressed the desire for new deals. So no holdouts to watch and wait for this year.

Coming off last year's relatively successful 11-5 season with all 22 starters returning, the line-up also seems pretty locked up. We know that Leon Joe isn't really the starting linebacker, in spite of what Lovie Smith says now. Lance Briggs will be back with the first team by Friday. Sure, Cedric Benson might battle Thomas Jones for the starting running back job, and maybe Ricky Manning, Jr. will compete for a starting spot. But that seems to be about it. While Chicagoist would like to see Grossman and Griese compete for the starting QB job, we know Grossman is the man -- until he get injured again.

For those fans who want to head down to Bourbonnais , the Bears have a variety fan-focused events planned -- kids autograph days, themed days and a family night planned. Admission to training camp is even free!