NEWSLETTER
Mark your calendars for April 17, my friends.
For that is when the Chicago Bears’ offseason training program will begin.
While we’re at it, let’s share the Bears’ offseason workout schedule:
Teams with new head coaches can begin offseason workout programs on April 3. But for what it is worth, the earliest a team is getting the ball rolling on offseason workouts is April 10 when the Colts get underway. Meanwhile, teams with returning head coaches (like the Bears) can begin their offseason workouts on April 17. And that seems like the landing spot for most teams to start it up.
The offseason workout program is a multi-pronged phase of the time between building up toward mandatory minicamps in June. Teams use this time for training, classroom teaching, and physical conditioning. The first phase is a two-week program focusing on meetings, strength and condition, and rehabilitation (for players coming back from injury, this part is crucial. Phase II allows for individual and non-contact workouts, drills, and things of that nature. However, keep in mind that offense vs. defense drills aren’t allowed in this phase. Nor are live contact activities. The third phase includes OTAs, but again, these are non-contact activities. And, as a reminder, these are *VOLUNTARY* workouts. Although, don’t blame me if your teammates give you the stink-eye for missing these “voluntary” dates.
As for the NFL’s other 31 teams, you can see when business picks up for those squads here:
Hopefully, the Bears don’t have any hiccups this time around. If you’ll recall, the NFL forced the Bears to cancel a June 7 practice for a CBA rules violation regarding OTAs. Although, the NFL didn’t even fine Head Coach Matt Eberflus (or anyone from the Bears) for their misdeeds last summer. Nevertheless, it would be wise to stay out of the league’s crosshairs this spring and summer.
