Larry English is on the mend from a second surgery on his left foot, and if there’s been one benefit to the NFL lockout it’s that he’s had extra time to heal.
But the outside linebacker has not been able to do rehabilitation under the watchful eye of the San Diego Chargers’ training staff.
Scott Bair of the North County Times reports that English, San Diego’s first-round draft pick (16th overall) in 2009 from Northern Illinois, finished the 2010 season after his initial surgery and the foot was never right.
“Doctors said it had hadn't healed right or the foot was re-broken,” English said. “Either way, we had to get it right during the offseason. It feels a lot better now and optimistic about my foot's long term health. Hopefully the second time's the charm.”
English said he expects his foot to “be right” when the season starts. For his sake, it would help if he’s full go before then so he can get some good work in for a coaching staff that has changed some following the departure of defensive coordinator Ron Rivera to the Carolina Panthers. Greg Manusky is now running the defense.
“I'm excited to see what I can do when completely healthy,” English said. “I know this defense. I feel confident in all of my responsibilities as a linebacker, many of which were new when I got drafted. I was ready to make a big leap last year, but I got hurt in training camp and never felt right. Once I complete this rehab, I'll be ready to play well and play fast.”
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Brad Biggs covers the Bears for the Chicago Tribune