The Chicago Bears' opening preseason contest is approximately one week away as the organization is scheduled to play versus the Houston Texans in the Hall of Fame Game on August 1st. That added a sense of urgency to Day 5 of training camp practices, which occurred at Halas Hall on Thursday afternoon.
It was a dominant performance for Matt Eberflus' first-team defense, according to reports. The defense possessed the upper hand, preventing the offense from reaching the end zone during team periods. Certain members of the offense bounced back during the 7-on-7 period, however. We've identified three winners from Day 5.
Caleb Williams, QB
The Bears' rookie franchise quarterback was sharp throughout the opening 7-on-7 period. Williams began the drive with a quick throw to Keenan Allen, via reports. It was a tight-window throw that just beat linebacker T.J. Edwards in coverage. The No. 1 overall pick threw multiple touchdowns, including one to D'Andre Swift on a corner route.
Velus Jones Jr., WR
It was Velus Jones Jr. who caught Williams' first touchdown during 7-on-7. Jones Jr. defeated shutdown cornerback Jaylon Johnson in coverage in the back-left corner of the end zone for his TD. Williams lofted the ball over Johnson, who had underneath coverage. Hopefully, that will help the former third-round receiver build some positive momentum throughout camp.
Play of the day from the Bears' fifth practice of training camp: Caleb Williams throwing a dart to the corner of the end zone, which was hauled in by Velus Jones Jr.
— Chris Emma (@CEmma670) July 25, 2024
Austin Booker, EDGE
The Bears are looking for pass rushers to emerge opposite Montez Sweat. Rookie fifth-round pick Austin Booker has enjoyed a productive start to camp, applying consistent pressure on quarterbacks from his edge position. If Booker keeps this up, he'll play himself into a key rotational role.