McClellin promoted to first team, Idonije moved inside

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BOURBONNAIS, Ill.The play of Shea McClellin in last Thursdays preseason game against the Denver Broncos has earned the rookie defensive end a major promotion and has the Bears looking at changes to the foundation of their nickel pass rush.
McClellin, who had a sack, two quarterback hits and a tackle for loss against the Denver Broncos, was moved up with the No. 1 unit opposite Julius Peppers. Israel Idonije, perhaps the Bears most versatile defensive lineman and who has played tackle during his Bears career, moved inside to tackle with Henry Melton.
We give guys reps and we keep giving them reps and let them tell us where they go from there, coach Lovie Smith told CSNChicago.com. Thats whats happening right now. Shea McClellin and rookie wide receiver Alshon Jeffery, I was pleased with what they did the first time out.
Shea is a good football player. Weve been saying that. It takes time but we see what he can become. And Izzy has rushed on the inside so were just trying to get those best four.
McClellin continued to make plays in full-team sessions. He surprised Gabe Carimi with a right-handed club move ala Reggie White and beat the right tackle back to the inside.
(For the record, he also tried it again later in practice. He may as well have been forearming a redwood. Advantage: Carimi).

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