The first-round draft pick from Boise State recorded three tackles, one sack, one tackle-for-loss and two quarterback hits in the Bears’ 31-3 loss to the Denver Broncos at Soldier Field.

“I was impressed with him in the game,” said coach Lovie Smith. “I’ve been impressed with him throughout camp. He came in, he had a lot to learn, and he’s doing that. He’s getting a lot of reps.

“He did play well in the game. Once you get in the game, your first action and you see that, ‘Hey, I can play this game,’ it does give you a lot of confidence. He’s a guy with confidence right now. We like him. We are getting him more reps with our [starters]. He’s going to help us win games this year.”

Although some members of the media have reported that McClellin struggled at times early in training camp, his coach has been happy with how the 6-3, 260-pounder has performed.

“You guys have been picking on him,” Smith said to a reporter. “I think he’s a great practice player. We’ve been pleased with what he’s done in the classroom and on the practice field. He’s right where a young defensive lineman should be. He comes to work the same way each day.”