Chicago Bears rookie Shemar Turner. Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Chicago Bears sent rookie warning about practice habits

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Jordan Sigler | Last updated May 20, 2025 6:38 PM ET

The Chicago Bears began voluntary minicamp practices on Tuesday. Veterans get their first opportunity to practice under new head coach Ben Johnson. Bears rookies will have their second segment of NFL practices. Chicago held its rookie minicamp earlier in the month.

Shemar Turner is hoping to show improvement this week. The No. 62 pick in the draft was reportedly out of shape at rookie camp. The defensive tackle played through a shin injury in 2024 and had to pull out of the Senior Bowl and did not participate in on-field workouts at the combine in February.

However, Turner appeared to be in good shape for Texas A&M’s Pro Day in March despite recovering from a stress fracture that required a rod to be inserted into his leg.

Shemar Turner had some growing pains at rookie minicamp

Shemar Turner. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images

Per Courtney Cronin of ESPN, Turner went through a few growing pains at rookie minicamp, slipping to the ground during a drill at the first practice.

“But reality soon hit when Turner found himself on the ground during a pass-rush drill after going too fast and losing his footing,” Cronin wrote. “The 22-year-old knew he had to rein it in if he wanted to make it through 25 consecutive walk-through reps.”

While the coaching staff was appreciative of Turner’s efforts and temperament, Turner said they gave him a warning about future practices.

Chicago Bears sent Turner a warning on practice habits

Shemar Turner. Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images

“They (saw) me getting a little winded,” Turner said. “They were like, ‘Hey, it’s a walk-through, temper it down a little bit. We love it, but you’ve just got to learn how to practice.'”

Learning how to practice is a key part of a young player’s life in the league. Coaching staffs typically show some grace, but Matt Eberflus’ staff punished players like Teven Jenkins for practice habits.

Hopefully, Turner can adjust to the flow of practice for the remainder of the spring.