Bears, Dolphins plan for joint practices in August

Such joint practices and exhibition contests were canceled last summer because of the COVID-19 pandemic but will take place this time around even though the majority of teams reportedly have not yet hit the 85% coronavirus vaccination threshold for players that will allow for the loosening of certain health and safety protocols. 

The Bears are a fascinating team, as head coach Matt Nagy has repeatedly insisted that veteran Andy Dalton will start at quarterback over rookie and first-round draft pick Justin Fields. The club is also reportedly eyeing a potential move from the city to the suburbs that has been met negatively by pockets of fans, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot and a certain franchise legend. 

The Dolphins, meanwhile, are hoping second-year signal-caller Tua Tagovailoa can make positive strides after an up-and-down rookie campaign. Miami has also been linked with Houston Texans star quarterback Deshaun Watson in trade rumors, but it's unknown if the 25-year-old facing 22 lawsuits alleging sexual assault and misconduct will be cleared to play for any portion of the upcoming season.