Wolfe making special contributions right now

Rookie running back Garrett Wolfe, recently promoted to No. 2 on the depth chart after the season-ending ankle injury to Cedric Benson, didn't enjoy an increase in playing time last week as he never got a chance to touch the ball.

But the 5-foot-7 Northern Illinois University product remains optimistic, and he made himself useful in other ways while waiting behind new featured back Adrian Peterson.

Wolfe had 3 tackles on special teams, tied for second best on the team, as his role on coverage units continues to expand.

Playing special teams is a new experience for Wolfe, who was too busy during his three years at NIU to do much else while rushing 807 times for 5,164 yards.

"I'm just trying to do the best job that I can," he said. "I'm becoming more and more comfortable with the special-teams role. That's something I didn't do in college, but it's something I've been doing a lot here."

Wolfe is more comfortable handling the ball 25 times a game. But for now, even in a best-case scenario, he's a change-of-pace option in the Bears' offense.

Coaches still believe Wolfe possesses enough speed, quickness and big-play ability to alter games with just a few touches and disprove critics who think the Bears moved too soon on draft day by taking him in the third round.

With just 9 carries for 31 yards, Wolfe sometimes feels frustrated when his minimal contributions are mentioned, but he tries to keep the situation in perspective.

"I try not to worry about what's written and what's said on television," he said. "But my feelings have always been that everyone's entitled to their own opinion. I haven't had an opportunity yet to prove anyone wrong, but I'm sure when that opportunity comes I'll be fine."

The Chicago native began his high school career at Oak Park's Fenwick High School but made his mark at Holy Cross High School in River Grove by rushing for 4,311 yards and 56 touchdowns in his final two seasons.

As a result, Wolfe gets more attention around town than most rookie backups.

"It's all very supportive," he said. "But everybody wants to know why I'm not playing and things of that nature. That's something that I can't answer. All I can do is come and prepare, come to work every day because this is my job, and do the best I can to help this team win in whatever way that is.

"You'd be surprised how many people recognize your face, especially being from here. People do treat me very well, and I really appreciate it."