The Bears started Kevin Payne and Al Afalava at safety through the preseason, maybe because Danieal Manning was out with an injury, but maybe not.

Lovie Smith has confirmed that he will use Danieal at kick returner and nickelback this season, but before his injury this preseason, he was said to be the starter at free safety.

The Bears have loved what they’ve seen from sixth round pick Al Afalava at strong safety, and Kevin Payne at free safety. They both have looked good in the preseason.

Maybe the Bears will use Danieal Manning in nickel situations and kick returner, or maybe they’ll put him at free safety as well as positions the listed above. Manning is entering his fourth year with the Bears and this is a contract year for him, so he must show everything he’s got.

I think Payne and Afalava will start week one and Manning will be used in nickel situations and as the kick returner because the Bears need more help at cornerback than at safety.

We’ll see what the coaches decide to do this Sunday night against Green Bay.

BEAR DOWN!