After his first practice with the Bears, Jeffery Simmons said he is ready to play whatever role the team gives him, even as he catches up with the playbook.
What he said
"The trade told me everything I needed to know, especially the value from giving away two first-round picks," Simmons said. "This team believes in what they have here and they want it right now." He said he is excited to help the Bears "compete for a championship."
Monday night debut
His first game with Chicago will be Monday night in Seattle against the Seahawks, followed by Sunday night against the Buccaneers in Chicago. It is unclear how much he will play against Seattle. "I'm not sure," he said. "I'm still trying to catch up with the playbook, get this game plan down and just trust the process. But at the same time, I'm ready to roll."
First impressions
Simmons said he noticed Bears history throughout Halas Hall, including retired numbers and Hall of Fame plaques, and said he hopes his name will be among them one day. He has been a nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award in each of the past two years.
Sources: Chicago Bears