The Chicago Bears focused on improving situational offense late in the second quarter during their Friday training camp practice at Halas Hall, addressing an area of weakness from the previous season. Head coach Ben Johnson emphasized the importance of better execution in the final minutes before halftime, as the team struggled in this phase last year despite strong performances late in games.

In an end-of-half drill with 1:22 remaining, quarterback Caleb Williams led the first-team offense on a 61-yard drive, culminating in a 14-yard touchdown pass to tight end Colston Loveland with 15 seconds left. The score marked a rebound for both players, as Loveland had dropped a touchdown pass earlier in the session and Williams had thrown an interception to cornerback Jaylon Johnson. Johnson noted the team’s intent to emphasize this aspect of their game, hoping it would yield positive results through continued focus.

The practice marked the team’s first session open to fans this year, with former Bears offensive lineman Kyle Long present to observe and engage with attendees. The team also showcased a rotating competition at left tackle, with third-round draft pick Kiran Amegadjie seeing considerable first-team reps, while Braxton Jones and Jedrick Wills Jr. split time with the second unit. Jones, who saw the most snaps with the starters earlier in camp, remains the favorite but is far from assured to retain the starting job.

Linebacker D’Marco Jackson stood out as a key figure during camp activities. After an eventful year transitioning from the New Orleans Saints to Chicago, Jackson secured a two-year contract extension worth $7.5 million. He took the green dot role, signaling defensive calls to teammates during practice. With starter Devin Bush locked in and T.J. Edwards sidelined due to a minor calf injury, Jackson is receiving increased reps and could see expanded opportunities, particularly on the strong side of the defense.

Injuries were limited during the session, although running back Kyle Monangai missed his second consecutive practice. Seven other players remain on non-football injury or physically unable to perform lists, including cornerback Kyler Gordon and safety Elijah Hicks.

A notable moment came from rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze, who made an impressive catch early in practice, signaling progress after recent foot issues. The Bears also worked on red-zone scenarios, with Williams again connecting with Loveland for a touchdown in team drills. Defensively, Johnson highlighted the value of players like Jackson who contribute on special teams and provide depth during critical stretches.

Coach Johnson acknowledged some external skepticism regarding the Bears’ ability to maintain the success of their 11-6 record from last season, referring to his team as a potential “No. 1 regression candidate.” This uncertainty fuels motivation for the players and staff as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The team also received some attention outside the facility following remarks by Jacksonville Jaguars coach Doug Pederson, who noted the disproportionate media coverage quarterback Caleb Williams receives, suggesting it serves as bulletin-board material for opposition teams. Johnson expressed confidence in Williams’ ability to handle such distractions.

Looking ahead, Bears practice resumes Saturday morning. The team’s next significant game will come against the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 6 at Soldier Field. Meanwhile, contract talks continue quietly, with right tackle players expected to command top market values in upcoming negotiations.