NFL training camp is an exciting time for football fans worldwide as it marks the true beginning of the football season. However, this period is also highly competitive, with some players’ positions not guaranteed. Tempers can flare, leading to occasional fights.
At Bears’ training camp, there has been a mix of trash talk and minor scuffles. One incident involved tight end Gerald Everett and several Bears defensive players a couple weeks back, with Caleb Williams stepping in to break it up. This wasn’t a serious fight.
However, a more intense altercation occurred during Sunday’s practice. Bears rookie edge rusher Austin Booker clashed with offensive lineman Braxton Jones on the final play of an 11-on-11 drill for first-team reps. The fight began after a run up the middle was stopped by Zacch Pickens. Booker and Jones started throwing punches and eventually ended up on the ground. Several players intervened to break up what has been the most heated fight at camp so far according to CHGO’s Greg Braggs Jr.
Ultimately, camp is camp. As long as fights don’t cross certain boundaries and isn’t a recurring issue (especially with one specific player), it shouldn’t be viewed as a big deal. Booker and Jones have been competing intensely over the last few weeks. Booker even mentioned that he enjoys the constant challenge from Jones. It seems the heat of a very good Sunday practice heightened their competitiveness even more.
