Football: Idonije hopes to play off the edge in Chicago

Manitoba Bisons alum Israel Idonije has always shown versatility in his NFL career, which helps explain why he's got a new two-year contract with the Chicago Bears. Last year he was a 305-lb. defensive tackle and this season he's aiming to line up as a 265-lb. defensive end:

"The leaner version of Israel Idonije has been on display this off-season as the Bears defensive lineman slimmed down to 270 pounds from 300-plus. And he’s not done just yet.

"The 6-foot-6-inch Idonije topped off at 306 pounds last season as the Bears used him at defensive tackle. He was gaining weight at this time last year.

"Playing at his targeted weight (of 265 lbs.) in '09, Idonije should be valuable as an edge rusher in the defensive end rotation. He could see action inside on passing down, when the Bears move into their nickel package."

Related:
Israel Idonije plans to shed a few more pounds for training camp (Vaughan McClure, Chicago Tribune)