Report Day at Bourbonnais: Lou Canellis - My50 Chicago - Television - WPWR

Tuesday was like Christmas for a crazy Chicago Bears fan like myself. I just couldn't wait for the players to report to camp for what might be the most anticipated Bears season since the Super Bowl Bears of the 80s.

I was there the early part of the day with offensive lineman Chris Williams, the first to show. This should come as no surprise with Williams involved in maybe the most important training camp battle with J'Marcus Webb at left tackle. Williams looked incredibly relaxed as he gets set for the final year of his rookie contract.

Roberto Garza and Chris Spencer were the next two players to arrive, Garza looking even a little bigger and stronger, Spencer a bit jet-lagged after his long trip from the west coast.

Finally, I sat in on Phil Emery and Lovie Smith's "state of the Bears" press conference. Emery said everyone but Johnny Knox is healthy and should be ready to participate in Thursday's first practice. I was pleased to hear Emery say the Bears are going to probably put Knox on the active PUP (physically unable to perform) list which allows the Bears to bring him up at any time during the season. Knox has been doing quite a bit of lifting and some light running but giving him at least "the hope" of seeing an NFL field sometime this season will help inspire Knox to work hard.

This is Lovie's ninth training camp and absolutely his most important. Both he and Emery bragged about the roster. Smith said he's got more weapons than ever but Emery reminded us, the Super Bowl will be won on the field, not on paper.

Lovie has two years left on his contract going into this season but this year he must make the playoffs. Emery's loaded the roster with a #1 wide receiver, solid backups at quarterback and running back, and depth all over the rest of the roster. Lovie said he feels no pressure which I believe is true considering his laid back attitude. Having said that, only one playoff appearance the last five seasons makes a postseason showing from this year's group a must.