Chicago Bears coach Lovie Smith just said he thinks Devin Hester has the potential to become a "No. 1" receiver in the league. It was the most significant thing Smith said during a 20-minute visit with the media.
Smith said he's still optimistic the Bears can find a way to keep Bernard Berrian, Mike Brown and Lance Briggs, but his body language didn't indicate he had much hope.
"My glass is half full," he said. "I'm an optimistic person."
Smith was asked about the status of seven different players, including starting running back Cedric Benson.
"He didn't have a good season," Smith said of Benson. "There are some reasons why, injuries...I still think he's a good football player. I think he can be productive in this league."
Smith was evasive when asked whether Benson would begin the season as the starter. He mentioned that Garrett Wolfe and Adrian Peterson were both in the mix. Smith also said that safety Adam Archuleta would be back with the team next season, which can't be great news for Bears fans.
My blogging partner, Mike Sando, is getting beaten down with people trying to pay their Pro Football Writers Association dues, but he'll be back soon. He's listening to Bills coach Dick Jauron right now.
Smith was sporting a white goatee that made him look like Dr. Harry Edwards, who you'll remember from his days with Bill Walsh and the 49ers. Right now, Jauron is talking about Bill Parcells' return to the AFC.
