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Chalk Talk

Wondering about a player, a past game or another issue involving the Bears? Senior writer Larry Mayer answers a variety of email questions from fans every day on ChicagoBears.com.

How has Pisa Tinoisamoa looked so far in training camp? What do you think the chances are that he will win the starting job at strongside linebacker? And where does that leave Hunter Hillenmeyer?

Brian B.
Fresno, California

Pisa Tinoisamoa has looked just like he did at the end of OTAs: He’s a very quick playmaker with excellent instincts. Barring an injury, I think there’s a pretty good chance that he’ll be the opening day starter at strongside linebacker. He made a pretty impressive play in Friday’s practice when he showed great closing speed to cause an incompletion by angling tight end Greg Olsen out of bounds. I’m not sure if any of the players Tinoisamoa is competing with for the starting job could have made that play. He’s also apparently bonding with his teammates. I saw him arrive for lunch at the dining wall with Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs. In terms of Hunter Hillenmeyer, there was a time that I thought his roster spot might be in jeopardy this season. But I no longer feel that way. Hillenmeyer is an experienced pro who still possesses the ability to play. It appears that he’s buying into becoming a contributor on special teams, and I think that he could excel in that role should he fail to unseat Tinoisamoa.

With Lovie Smith now calling plays this season, how much have his responsibilities changed in terms of what he does during a training camp practice?

Ralph J.
Cleveland, Ohio

Lovie Smith’s role during the first half of practice hasn’t really changed that much. He monitors the offense and the defense while also working with the nickel backs. His responsibilities are a little different during 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills given the fact that he is calling defensive plays. Here’s what he had to say about his role: “My duties have changed a little bit in practice, but not much. I’m not coaching a position, so I get a chance to see all of the guys. But in the team stuff it has changed a little bit and I’m excited about the change. It’s been a long time since I had a chance to be in that role and I like it.”

I heard a rumor that the Bears are one of a handful of teams interested in receiver Matt Jones. Is that true?

Henry K.
San Jose, California

While I heard that Matt Jones’ representatives may have contacted the Bears, the Bears are not interested in signing the former Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver at this time.

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