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Martellus Bennett Continues To Skip Bears' OTAs

By Chris Emma--

LAKE FOREST, Ill. (CBS) -- With the Bears taking part in their sixth of 10 voluntary OTAs, three key offensive starters weren't present on the practice field Wednesday.

Tight end Martellus Bennett, tackle Jermon Bushrod and guard Kyle Long each didn't practice at Halas Hall.

Bennett wasn't on the field for the Bears' most recent open OTA last Wednesday either. Following a career year of 90 catches, 916 yards and six touchdowns, Bennett's apparently in a contract dispute. While Bears coach John Fox emphasized that these OTAs are voluntary workouts, the upcoming minicamp is mandatory.

Will Bennett be in attendance for that?

"I can't predict what those intentions are," Fox said. "We'd prefer him to be here. Right now, we'll focus on the guys that are here."

In April, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Bennett wouldn't report to the Bears without a new contract. He has two years left on his current deal. Bennett's set to be paid $4.9 million in 2015 and nearly $5.1 million in 2016.

In addition, linebackers Lamarr Houston (ACL) and Willie Young (Achillies) remain "week-to-week" in their respective recoveries injury, Fox said.

Wednesday marked the Bears' final OTA of the week and the lone one this week open to the media.

Follow Chris on Twitter @CEmma670.

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