What we saw: Day 1 of Bears training camp

The Chicago Sun-Times’ Adam L. Jahns, Patrick Finley and Mark Potash break down the first day of Bears training camp:

Big man moves

New defensive tackle Akiem Hicks, who is listed at 6-5, 336 pounds, is the team’s largest defensive starter. Linebacker Danny Trevathan described him as a “mountain.” But he’s mountain who can move. During team drills, Hicks ran down running back Jeremy Langford, who had cut up the sideline. With a good angle, Hicks was able to get a hand on the speedy running back. It was an impressive display of his athleticism … Receiver Josh Bellamy made a diving touchdown catch of more than 50 yards from quarterback David Fales. …. Receiver Eddie Royal made a leaping catch over second-year cornerback Jacoby Glenn near the sideline.

— Adam L. Jahns

Fast feet

Though coaches spent the offseason talking him up as the Bears’ most physical runner, rookie Jordan Howard has quicker feet than you’d think. He looked slick at times Thursday, though he’ll be able to show off his bruising nature when the team puts pads on Saturday. He has to bide his time, too; vet Jacquizz Rodgers got plenty of chances Thursday … My new favorite drill: coaches throw white towels at punt returners while they catch the ball. Receiver B.J. Daniels has seen it before. “I’ve had towels, bowling balls, basketballs, volleyballs, everything,” he said. “Not bowling balls.”

— Patrick Finley

Alshon shines

Alshon Jeffery made the play of the day, leaping over three defenders to snare a tipped ball for a long TD. … Cameron Meredith made a nice catch on a pass from Brian Hoyer. … Safety Chris Prosinski nearly had a pick. … Rookie Ben LeCompte has a strong leg, but Pat O’Donnell effortlessly outkicked him. … Kyle Fuller reacted too late and was beaten by Jeffery for a TD. … Punt return candidates: Marc Mariani, Bryce Callahan, Kieren Duncan, Derek Keaton, Daniel Braverman, Royal and Daniels took turns. Keaton made a nice move to get free on a live return.

— Mark Potash

Up next: 11:15 a.m. practice Friday at Olivet Nazarene University