Bears Training Camp Notes: Williams Under Center, Brisker's Expanded Role, Loveland Impresses, More

The Chicago Bears practiced in hot conditions at Halas Hall, with a focus on quarterback Caleb Williams adapting to taking snaps under center, a significant shift from his predominantly shotgun-based college and rookie NFL experience. Head Coach Ben Johnson's offense, still in early installation phases, requires this adjustment. Williams is receiving extensive reps under center during camp, contrasting with his limited snaps there last season (71 snaps). This aligns with Johnson's system, as evidenced by Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff leading the league in under-center pass attempts (217) with high efficiency (121.2 passer rating, 0.40 EPA per pass) under Johnson last season.

Defensively, Coordinator Dennis Allen is expanding safety Jaquan Brisker's role, deploying him in various positions and packages to utilize his versatility and playmaking ability. Brisker expressed enthusiasm about studying multiple positions and contributing more. During practice, he broke up a Caleb Williams pass in team drills, though he believed he should have intercepted it. Brisker's importance was highlighted by his absence due to concussion last season and his productive stats in his first two years (back-to-back 100+ tackle seasons, multiple turnovers and sacks). He vows to be "better than ever" in 2025.

Wide receiver Luther Burden participated in individual drills but did not take part in team drills during the practice.