The Chicago Bears wrapped mandatory minicamp and are officially on summer break ahead of training camp in late July. But as head coach Matt Eberflus hinted, the work isn’t done for these players this summer.
Eberflus told his players he wants them to take this break to return “lean and in shape” for training camp next month.
“My main message to the guys, as they prepare for this time away, is to come back lean and in shape,” Eberflus said. “Training camp isn’t to get in shape, you should already be in shape when you arrive. Bring your track shoes, because we’re gonna be running.”
It’s safe to say that one pair of teammates will be back training this offseason. Quarterback Justin Fields and wide receiver Darnell Mooney have been inseparable this offseason, and that’s going to continue into this break.
Only now, they’re not going to be alone.
Rookie wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. confirmed that he’ll be down in Atlanta participating in throwing sessions with Fields and Mooney this summer.
Velus Jones Jr. says he will be at the throwing sessions in Atlanta with Justin Fields and Darnell Mooney this Summer. #Bears
— Zack Pearson (@Zack_Pearson) June 16, 2022
There’s no denying the connection between Fields and Mooney, which has included late nights at Halas Hall.
But Jones is working on building his own connection with Fields. He understands the importance of that connection with his QB and how it makes things easier on the field. The hope is Jones develops into a playmaker for Fields down the line.
“He is depending on me,” Jones said.
Now, Jones will get more time to build that rapport with Fields ahead of training camp.
