Williams, Bostic both listed as Bears' starting MLBs

BOURBONNAIS - The first unofficial depth chart of the season lists Shea McClellin as the starter at strong-side linebacker and D.J. Williams and Jon Bostic as co-starters at middle linebacker.

But Bostic has gotten reps on the strong side, and McClellin has gotten some snaps in the middle. Williams is expected to be the opening day starter in the middle, so Bostic and McClellin could both see action on the strong side.

"We'll just see how it plays out," defensive coordinator Mel Tucker said. "We want as many guys to be able to play winning football as possible. That's the goal, to teach and to motivate and develop each and every guy. We're going to need everyone. At some point it will shake out who will be starter and who will be the next guy up."

On guard:

Guard Kyle Long participated in his first team activities after missing the first seven practices with a viral infection.

As he tries to get back to full speed, last year's first-round pick lined up with the first team in 11-on-11 scrimmages but was periodically spelled by Michael Ola.

Switching gears:

Monday's practice was originally schedule for 3 p.m., but at 8:53 a.m. the team announced it would be moved up to 11 a.m. to avoid anticipated inclement weather.

The change clearly caught some fans by surprise. Attendance was estimated at 2,000, easily the lowest of the year. Other fans showed up mid-afternoon for an expected 3 p.m. start.

Several hours later there was still no trace of rain.

Injury update:

Linebacker Lance Briggs missed part of practice with a bruised knee after a collision.

Running back Shaun Draughn and defensive end Jared Allen were excused from practice. Neither player practiced Saturday night either. Cornerback Tim Jennings (quad) and guard Eben Britton (hamstring) also didn't practice.