May 18, 2007
Smith still hopeful Briggs will return to Bears
By Larry Mayer
LAKE FOREST, Ill. – While Lance Briggs has opted to skip this weekend’s mandatory minicamp as expected, coach Lovie Smith remains optimistic that the disgruntled linebacker has not played his final game in a Bears uniform.
“My glass is half-full always,” Smith said. “And with that in mind, history tells me that a player won’t sit out the entire season.
Veteran weakside linebacker Lance Briggs has opted not to attend the Bears' mandatory minicamp.
“I know Lance loves his teammates, he loves being a part of the organization, so I just assume in time Lance will be here. That’s what I’m hoping for and I think that’s what will happen.”
Briggs is upset that the Bears placed a franchise tag on him, which guarantees him a one-year contract worth $7.2 million but prevents him from reaching the unrestricted free agent market.
With Briggs absent Friday, 2006 fourth-round draft pick Jamar Williams worked with the first team defense at weakside linebacker alongside Brian Urlacher and Hunter Hillenmeyer.
“Lance isn’t here,” Smith said. “These things happen. At the same time, we’re getting a chance to look at all of our other players, Jamar Williams in particular, and the rest of the guys. Players go down at any time, so you have to have a plan two, and that’s where we are.”
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Smith still hopeful Briggs will return to Bears - Chicago Bears
Smith still hopeful Briggs will return to Bears
Smith still hopeful Briggs will return to Bears
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