WitP: Pisa, Bess, Ikaika, Hunter

Pisa Tinoisamoa is the Bears' starter at strongside linebacker.

Joining them at linebacker will be Pisa Tinoisamoa, who played in parts of only two games last season because of knee injuries. The 29-year-old has locked down the strong-side job, and coach Lovie Smith raved about what he brings to the unit.

"We have another playmaker," Smith said. "Pisa isn't your traditional iso-type linebacker, big plugger. He can play in space. He has some DB-type skills, breaking on the ball. He has good hands. He can rush the passer."

Miami's #1 receiver Brandon Marshall has high praise for Davone Bess.

Brandon Marshall calls Davone Bess “probably one of the best route-runners I ever saw. I learn from him.”

MiamiDolphins.com spotlights the outside linebackers, including Ikaika Alama-Francis:

He was one of the biggest surprises of training camp, ascending to the starting lineup for the preseason finale at Dallas.

After being picked up midway through the 2009 season, Alama-Francis actually ended last year as a defensive end before being switched to outside linebacker because the Dolphins liked the way he moved.

And Jets coach Rex Ryan knows who not to mess with.

Q: Which of your players would you pick if you were in a barroom brawl?

A: (Pause). I’ll say Wayne Hunter. That would be my guy.

Q: Why?

A: Because nobody messes with Wayne Hunter. Nobody.