Martz: "Aromashodu has stepped up quite a bit"

New Bears offensive coordinator Mike Martz has made clear that he likes his receivers. But when asked a general question about the group today, Martz singled out Devin Aromashodu.

Asked if his high opinion of the receivers hasn’t changed, Martz said, “It hasn’t changed at all.

“Aromashodu has stepped up quite a bit — significantly — and we’ve moved him in to a role now where we’re trying to see what he can do, and get him the ball a little bit more,” Martz said. “Our two starters are terrific players. We’re giving each guy an opportunity to move up and be counted on.”

Martz didn’t spell out the two starters. But Devin Hester and Johnny Knox have largely filled those roles during the first three practices. And even when Earl Bennett is full speed, he would appear to be the fourth receiver, most likely handling the slot.

That leaves Juaquin Iglesias, a third-round pick last year, to battle Rashied Davis for the fifth spot. Martz alluded to backups knowing multiple spots, which means Iglesias needs to get up to speed quickly. Davis, meanwhile, is one of the team’s more versatile players, both as a receiver and special teamer.

For his part, Aromashodu downplayed Martz’s comments about him.

“It’s not bad,” the receiver said. “t’s a good thing because we got a real good offense, and a good offensive coordinator with a nice track record, so hopefully he can make us all better, as a group.”

Aromashodu, who has spent time with four other NFL clubs, is being tabbed as a potential breakout player. He finished last season with 22 catches for 282 yards and four touchdowns in the final four games.

Whether he starts or not, he has grand goals, too.

“I expect to come out every game and put up some good numbers,” he said. “That’s what I expect of myself. I’m going to take my skills to the next level. That’s the next level, to play like a starter, so that’s what I feel I am.”