Chicago Bears

Slimmer Ego Ferguson Looking for a fit in Chicago Bears' new defense

Published Jul. 28, 2015 11:30 a.m. ET

foxsports

When the Chicago Bears drafted Ego Ferguson in the second round of last year's draft, the defensive lineman weighed 315 pounds. However, to better fit the team's new 3-4 scheme under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, Ferguson had to trim down a bit this offseason.

"I lost about 15 pounds, to 298-298, just trying to get a little more pass rushing and being able to run around a little more," Ferguson told John Mullin of CSN Chicago. "I think 295-300 will be about right.

"They want you to be strong and explosive, not just big."

With second-round rookie Eddie Goldman—who tips the scales at 320 pounds—in line to make an impact at nose tackle, Ferguson must be prepared to play whatever position is asked of him. The coaches have been experimenting with him in several different places.

"I’m doing a little bit of everything," Ferguson said, via CSN Chicago. "They’ve got me playing all over the place so I’m just trying to learn. But I’m getting used to it."

Ferguson had two sacks and 23 tackles as a rookie. He played in all 16 games, but didn't have any starts. This season, he will compete for one of the two starting defensive end roles.

(h/t CSN Chicago)