Tim Jennings gasped and bent forward, a series of post-practice sprints leaving him spent. The Bears' voluntary April minicamp had just finished and the 31-year-old cornerback was intent on getting in some extra conditioning.
Just outside Halas Hall, Jennings caught his breath and admitted it all felt pretty good. The work. The fatigue. The energy in the air.
Jennings appreciated the enthusiasm that had accompanied the first week of practice under new coach John Fox. And he welcomed the aggressiveness new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio is instilling.
As for just what kind of role Jennings will play as the Bears begin a new chapter?