Most former Super Bowl MVPs aren't battling for a job during the fourth preseason game. But such is the current state of affairs for receiver Santonio Holmes.
In Thursday night's preseason finale against the Cleveland Browns, the veteran was stating his case to be the Chicago Bears' No. 3 receiver.
His one reception spoke loudly:
"You see the explosion in him," coach Marc Trestman said, per the Chicago Sun-Times. "He caught a short throw, turned and ran, separated from the defense. That's a good sign."
It was the sort of catch-and-run that made Holmes a dangerous weapon before it all fell apart the past two seasons -- a terrible angle by Browns' first-round pick Justin Gilbert helped.
Holmes also showed spryness on punt returns. On his only return he made two men miss and earned 30 yards. The Bears are scrambling for return help, so Holmes' showing is a positive sign for the 30-year-old making the team.
"I really felt in my heart that I can continue playing," he said after the game. "I just tried to take advantage of the opportunity, and the opportunity came today with me making a big play for the team."
Josh Morgan might start the season as the No. 3 wideout, but if Holmes can stay healthy, he is the much more dynamic player and could be an uncoverable weapon vs. backup corners.
On the latest "Around The NFL Podcast," the heroes preview the entire NFC and chat with Giants linebacker Jon Beason.
