Matt Eberflus pleased by Bears' turnout in voluntary offseason program

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) – Bears head coach Matt Eberflus on Thursday lauded the attendance of his team during its voluntary offseason program, saying every player has been present for work at some point.

That’s no small feat for a Bears team that’s hopeful to ascend as a legitimate contender in 2024, which marks Eberflus' third season in Chicago.

While Eberflus has been pleased by the turnout overall, there were several notable absences from practice Thursday at Halas Hall. Pro Bowl pass rusher Montez Sweat, receiver Keenan Allen, guard Nate Davis, offensive tackle Darnell Wright and receiver Velus Jones Jr. weren’t present for practice, the Bears’ third of OTAs.

Eberflus didn’t express any concern with any player’s absence during practice, pointing to the strong turnout during the offseason program and each individual's own personal obligations.

The Bears will hold three more practices in OTAs in addition to three practices in veteran minicamp before breaking in early June and then reconvening for training camp in July.

Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 .