Hillenmeyer and Dvoracek Out for Minicamp

The Bears announced on their Web site today that veteran linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer (hand) and defensive tackle Dusty Dvoracek (torn right biceps) will be sidelined during mini camp this week.

Dusty Dvoracek has been unable to stay healthy for the Bears in his two seasons.

Dusty will be entering his final year of his contract, and knows he needs to stay healthy for not only the Bears, but also for himself.

Hunter Hillenmeyer will most likely be competing with Nick Roach for the starting outside linebacker spot, who was recently resigned.

If, Hillenmeyer can't win expect him to find himself on special teams.

Nick Roach started nine games last season and recorded 38 tackles.

The Bears are really high on Roach a former Northwestern standout.

I expect Roach to win this battle because he just looks more athletic than Hunter Hillenmeyer, who has started 86 games, making 294 tackles in six seasons with the Bears.

Bears tender offers to exclusive rights free agents Roach, Hamilton

The Bears have sent contract tenders to exclusive rights free agents Nick Roach (above) and Marcus Hamilton, NFL sources confirmed.

Roach started nine games at strong-side linebacker and finished with 40 tackles including a season-high eight in the final game at Houston.

Roach is expected to enter minicamp atop the depth chart at the position although he will be pushed by seven-year veteran Hunter Hillenmeyer, 28.

Hillenmeyer has made 56 career starts but fell out of favor.

Hamilton appeared in eight games last season, primarily on special teams, after the cornerback was claimed off waivers from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Bears picked up Nick Roach on waivers from the San Diego Chargers in 2007.

Entering his third season, Nick Roach will earn the minimum, $460,000.

The Bears' moves are ahead of Thursday's deadline to tender exclusive rights free agents.

(AP)