With Danieal Manning emerging as one of the top kickoff returners in the NFL, the Bears are in a better position all the way around as Devin Hester settles into his role as a wide receiver.
Hester's improvement over the last four games -- he has 17 receptions in that span after totaling 26 in his first nine games -- can be traced to when he was taken off kickoffs in the fourth quarter at Green Bay. The idea was to allow him to concentrate on offense and punt returns.
The offensive part has worked. Not only are his catches up, but so is his average. He has gained 14.7 yards per reception during the last month after posting a 12.2 average over the first three months.
''The last three or four games, he's really come on and made plays down the field,'' quarterback Kyle Orton said. ''He's really running fast, has a confidence in his route running. He's made big plays, and we need him to make some this week.''
The Bears were stymied at Green Bay when the Packers' aggressive defensive backs limited wide receivers to four catches. They'll need more success Monday to keep the Packers out of loaded eight-man fronts.
Offensive coordinator Ron Turner said he didn't see any correlation between Manning taking over kickoff-return duties and Hester's success, saying it's a product of more reps.
''He's not thinking as much,'' Turner said. ''He's just coming out and playing and reacting, which is a natural transition for someone learning to play the position. He's still a very young receiver, and it's just getting the reps. At some point for those guys playing that position, it starts to click, and it started to click a few weeks ago.''
TOEING THE LINE
Matt Forte was held out of practice again Thursday but is expected to start Monday. The rookie running back is nursing an injured toe on his right foot but should be back at practice today if his prognosis is on the mark.
''Matt is making progress, but we held him one more day,'' coach Lovie Smith said. ''We'll be in good shape injury-wise.''
That doesn't mean fullback Jason McKie (quadriceps) will be available. He has missed the last three games and was held out of practice. Wide receiver Marty Booker (rib) was limited, and defensive tackle Tommie Harris (left knee) had full participation.
Packers cornerback Al Harris is hampered by a shoulder injury.
PAY UP
Linebacker Jamar Williams was fined $5,000 for a facemask penalty on the second-half kickoff last week against New Orleans.
Comment at suntimes.com.
Play FOX Pro Football Pick'em Today >
