After signing with the Bears just over two months ago, it appears that Jimmy Clausen is the front runner the Bears backup quarterback job. The former 2010 first round pick has been competing with Jordan Palmer throughout training camp and the Bears announced on Tuesday that Clausen will take second team reps in Thursday night’s second preseason game.

“Jimmy will relieve Jay,” Bears head coach Marc Trestman said after practice on Tuesday. “He’ll have the shot after Jay comes out of game, whenever that is. But both [Clausen & Palmer] will play.”

In the Bears’ first preseason game last Friday against Philadelphia, Clausen was listed behind Palmer on the depth chart but was the more impressive backup to see the field. Clausen completed 7 of 13 passes for 150 yards and two touchdowns.

“It was good to get back out there,” Clausen said of Friday night’s game. “Felt good to get hit a little bit and make some plays”.

Clausen’s success continued on the practice field on Monday where he received majority of the reps with the second team offense. He went through Monday’s practice making good throws and limiting the mistakes.

“Every single day out I’m getting more comfortable,” Clausen said after practice on Monday. “The more reps I can take and the more practice I have, the more comfortable I’m going to feel.”

Palmer, on the other hand, is continuing to struggle. After being bumped down to third string at practice, Palmer threw a couple of interceptions on Monday, including one that defensive end Willie Young returned for a touchdown.

*Images via David Banks/ USA Today Sports