"Running back Kahlil Bell, who started his NFL career with a bang in 2009 but spent last season on the bench, will get a long-awaited opportunity in the Bears' season opener Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons at Soldier Field.

With Marion Barber ruled out because of a calf injury he suffered Aug. 27 against the Tennessee Titans, Bell will back up starter Matt Forte.

Bell had a 72-yard gain on his first NFL carry against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2009 and gained 220 yards on 40 carries in seven games. But he was inactive for all 18 games last season.

''I'm ready and excited,'' Bell said. ''I feel I'm an every-down back in the NFL. I can do anything they ask me to do. If they need me to block, I can block. If they need me to get a yard, I can get a yard. If they need me to run pass routes, I can do that. I don't like to pigeonhole myself. I think I can do it all.''"