The end of Sunday's practice offered the chance for the third- and fourth-stringers to show what they could do by going full speed without the normal "thump-and-release" rules that govern practices.
The subs went 16 plays without an injury. West Texas A&M rookie receiver Brittan Golden continued to surprise with a couple tough catches in traffic that included a hard shot from defenders. Linebacker J.T. Thomas, a second-year player who was on injured reserve all last year, delivered the big blow with a shoulder hit high on tight end Brandon Venson after a catch near the line of scrimmage.
Coach Lovie Smith knows what the top part of the roster will look like, but it's rare when the staff can take a close look at the bottom of the roster in game conditions.
"A lot of times you have to wait until an actual preseason game," he said.
Another young player Smith indicated had earned some attention was defensive end Thaddeus Gibson, who had played with the Texans.
Injury update: WR Brandon Marshall had no after-effects from a scary moment Saturday when he went to the turf, appeared to have some sort of leg injury, but popped right back onto the field to have a spectacular practice. He went through a full Sunday practice. WR Devin Hester practiced after missing Saturday with an ankle injury and looked good fielding short punts -- an area he has indicated is one where he needs to improve.
Off day: Many Bears will leave camp Monday but there's a good number who plan to just stay put and simply rest in Bourbonnais. Coaches continue to work on the day off, which is mandatory in the new collective bargaining agreement.
Ahead: Practice resumes Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. The Bears have their second of three planned night practices at Soldier Field Friday at 7 p.m., the annual family night workout.
Follow Bears reporter Gene Chamberlain on Twitter @CBSSportsNFLCHI.
