Minicamp was preceded by physicals and weigh-ins on Thursday and there are a few changes worth noting:
Defensive lineman Israel Idonije, who is expected to move inside on a more permanent basis, is listed at 297 pounds, up 22 from last year. Its by far the biggest change on the roster.
Idonije was doing some work at defensive end during OTAs when the media was allowed in last week as Alex Brown (hamstring) was sidelined. The Bears certainly dont want anyone playing outside at that size, but the feeling was Idonije could add the weight and remain as quick. It will be interesting to get his take as well as that of special teams coordinator Dave Toub on the change because hes such a valuable contributor on special teams.
— Slimmed down running back Cedric Benson is listed at 216 pounds, down four from last years list. If hes 216 now, he wasnt 220 last year. Rookie second-round pick Matt Forte, advertised as a 222-pound back, is 216.
— Devin Hester added four pounds to reach 190.
— Rookie defensive end Ervin Baldwin dropped from 270 to 260 on the updated list.
— Rookie left tackle Chris Williams is now listed at 312, down from 316.
Practice starts now. Check back afterward for some updates.
