Top takeaways from first practice

The Chicago Bears hit the practice field for the first time during training camp on Wednesday, which kicked off a new era of Bears football under a new regime.

It was a closed, ramp-up practice for the team. But there was plenty of action at Halas Hall, including the monitoring of some important position battles on offense and defense.

There was plenty to digest from practice and press conferences with head coach Matt Eberflus, defensive end Robert Quinn, receiver N’Keal Harry and offensive linemen Riley Reiff and Michael Scofield.

Following Wednesday’s practice, here’s a look at what we learned from the first day of Bears training camp:

1
Robert Quinn doesn’t want to be traded

AP Photo/Jeffrey Phelps

There’s been plenty of speculation about Robert Quinn’s future with the Bears following reports that he wanted out of Chicago. Naturally, it was a popular topic of discussion when Quinn spoke with the media.

Quinn made it clear that he doesn’t want to be traded, and he’s preparing to play this season with the Bears. But he acknowledged the business nature of the NFL.

 “I expect to be here but if not that’s out of my control,” he said.

Quinn is coming off an impressive season where he set a franchise single-season sack record. Following the trade of Khalil Mack, Quinn is now the top option off the edge for Chicago.

2
Bears insist Roquan Smith is hurt

AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh

The Bears placed star linebacker Roquan Smith on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list ahead of Wednesday’s practice. There was some speculation about it being a potential loophole for GM Ryan Poles while the two sides work towards a contract extension.

While that still might be the case, Eberflus insists that Smith is indeed hurt. Smith is still able to participate in team meetings but not practice. Eberflus said Smith took a physical on Tuesday but he didn’t participate in the conditioning drill.

As for Eberflus’ expectations for Smith while he’s on the PUP list?

“Stay involved, be a leader, be engaged – which he’s doing and will do,” Eberflus said. “He’s a pro. He’s been in the league long enough, he’s a really good player and we’re excited to have him as a Chicago Bear, and he’ll do that.”

3
All offensive line combinations remain open

AP Photo/David Banks

All…