The Chicago Bears hit the practice field for the first time Wednesday morning at Halas Hall, but the real work for offensive linemen begins Monday when rules allow the team to put on full pads.
So when the first unit the team ended June minicamp with was first up in team drills, that said something. But much more telling will be how the group is deployed in another five days.
Rookie fifth-round pick Braxton Jones was at left tackle. Logic dictates that newly signed Riley Reiff will assume that position soon. The Bears are seeking the best five players on the line, and Reiff’s experience — with 124 career starts — makes him a clear candidate for the starting lineup.
