http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/fo ... 0483.storyThe Bears' decision to sign quarterback Jason Campbell to a one-year deal could have rubbed Josh McCown the wrong way.
Instead, McCown praised the organization for making a shrewd move.
"Jason's a good player and he's an awesome guy,'' said McCown, who established a rapport with Campbell years ago at a quarterback challenge. "Anytime you get a chance to bring a player like that in as your backup quarterback, you've got to go for it.''
Some figured the free-agent McCown, 32, would get a chance to compete for the backup role behind Jay Cutler based on last season's showing. McCown took over for struggling Caleb Hanie and played admirably while starting the final two games, completing 34 of 53 passes for 402 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions.
But Bears coach Lovie Smith vowed to improve the backup quarterback situation after watching Hanie drop four in a row as the starter in place of the injured Cutler. The team eased some concern by signing Campbell, a former first-round draft pick with 70 career starts.
That leaves McCown with a chance to compete with second-year pro Nathan Enderle for the No. 3 quarterback job, if the Bears elect to re-sign him. Hanie will not be back.
"Obviously, as a competitor, do I want to have a shot to be that (backup) guy? Of course I do,'' McCown said. "But I trust the Bears' leadership. I trust their judgment.
"I try to be as loyal to people as I can. The fact is, when nobody else called me last year, Chicago called. If other teams call now and talk about me being the backup, yes, I have to sit and listen. But at the same time, I would love to be in Chicago. I believe in what they're doing. There's value in being a third quarterback.''
If McCown does return, he'll have to wear a different number. The Bears will give his No. 15 jersey to newly acquired Pro Bowl receiver Brandon Marshall
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