Basanez headlines practice squad
There were no real surprises among the seven players, including quarterback Brett Basanez, signed to the practice squad Sunday, with the possible exception of guard Johan Asiata, an undrafted rookie from UNLV.
The more logical pick would have been offensive tackle Cody Balogh, who spent all of 2008 on the practice squad. But the Bears have one spot remaining, so he’s still a possibility.
The other six who already have a spot, making a minimum of $5,200 a week, are defensive end Ervin Baldwin, a seventh-round pick in 2008 who had 2 sacks in the preseason finale last Thursday; Basanez, defensive end Joe Clermond, who spent the final month of the ’08 season on the Bears’ practice squad; center Donovan Raiola, fullback Will Ta'ufo'ou and cornerback Woodny Turenne.
Basanez, a St. Viator High School grad who was a four-year starter at Northwestern, essentially becomes the No. 3 quarterback, since the Bears kept only two on the final 53-man roster.
Basanez outplayed Hanie the last 2 preseason games with 10 of 13 (11 on the money) in the Browns game and 3 scores. He is a smart, athletic player who knows how to get the ball downfield for a score. He's an impressive #3 and wish him well. Dr FP
In the spirit of Moses Merino and Peter Tom Willis Basanez is quality, to those in reality realize only on the Bears could this guy get a roster or practice squad spot. Absolute garbae