Seeking versatility, Bears try Kyle Long at left tackle

The Kyle Long Tackle Experiment moved to the blind side Wednesday, when the Bears tried their two-time Pro Bowl guard at left tackle.

Long had been playing right tackle in practice with tackles Jermon Bushrod and Jordan Mills held out because of injuries.

Coach John Fox said he wants his players, not just Long, moving around in camp to give the team flexibility.

“I think it’s an injustice to just throw a guy, even as simple as it sounds, left to right, whether you’re doing it with a corner or a outside backer or a guard or tackle,” he said. “They need to practice it.

“This is a good time of year to kind of get the technique, the sets and all of the different communication that has to happen with the O-line. You know, getting that valuable reps and experience.”

He will continue to move players around in training camp.

“I think it’s important that you’re getting ready for a marathon,” he said. “There’s a lot of things that can happen throughout a season. There’s going to be guys happen that the guys are going to be at different spots. We’ll have a next-man-up approach, whether that’s the O-line or any position.”

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