Adam L. Jahns: Analyzing the highs and lows of Bears training camp

By Adam L. Jahns

Mitch Trubisky threw for 166 yards Thursday. (Brian O’Mahoney/Sun-Times Media)

BOURBONNAIS — The Sun-Times’ Adam L. Jahns breaks down the best and worst of the Bears’ training camp, which ended Monday at Olivet Nazarene University:

Mike Glennon looked …

Like a quarterback who needs to play more in the preseason. He shouldn’t be treated as a typical starter. He needs the work after being the Buccaneers’ backup for two full seasons. It was telling to hear Glennon say after the Broncos game that he still needs “to get used to coming out as the starter and playing and being that guy.” At best, Glennon’s camp was uneven. The Bears liked how he performed after his rough preseason debut, but he still could have been better. The Bears’ defensive backs seemed to have a good read on him throughout camp.

Mitch Trubisky looked …

Like he belonged when faced the Broncos, but his inexperience was still evident in Bourbonnais. For all his struggles in camp, though, he still flashed the talent of a top-five pick. His accuracy, velocity and touch are special. He can make throws Glennon can’t. And the most encouraging aspect might be off the field: Trubisky has bought into the Bears’ plan for him. He’s a team-first guy who knows he has much to learn. He has natural charisma, and his teammates have bought into it.

Do the Bears have a quarterback controversy?

Not yet. One preseason game is too small a sample size to spark major changes. But the best players need to play — it’s how you keep your locker room in order. The Bears have their reasons for not rushing Trubisky, but Glennon still needs to prove his worth on the field.

He had a good camp …

Rookie safety Eddie Jackson. With interceptions and pass breakups, he showed off his ball skills and range. The Bears like his instincts. His tackling ability will determine whether he starts, but his strong showing has put him squarely in the mix to play alongside veteran Quintin Demps.

He had a disappointing camp …

Running back Jeremy Langford, because he didn’t have a camp. He sprained his right ankle during an early walk-through. It’s the same ankle that required surgery in the offseason. Langford still is the Bears’ best option to back up Jordan Howard, but the running back competition has heated up without him, with Tarik Cohen earning playing time.

I’ll be watching …

The players Trubisky plays with and against for the rest of the preseason. The Bears might not have a quarterback controversy, but Trubisky has earned the right to play with and against better players. It will determine how far along he is in his development. He moved the ball well with receivers Josh Bellamy and Deonte Thompson against the Broncos. What can he do with White and Meredith? The Bears already know what Mark Sanchez can do.

Did camp change my opinion of the team’s future?

No. The roster is more talented than many think, especially nationally. The Bears might not be a playoff team, but it continues to be understated how devastating their injuries were last season. Quarterback Matt Barkley, who wasn’t even in camp, started a team-high six games.

Follow me on Twitter @adamjahns.

Email: adamjahns@suntimes.com