*** 2010 Chicago Bears Offseason Thread *** (1 Viewer)

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

ESPN’s Adam Schefter is reporting the Bears have already contacted USC quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates regarding the OC position. Schefter reports that Bates and Minnesota Gophers offensive coordinator Jedd Fisch will be two targeted coaches. Charlie Weis has expressed interest in this position.

Ron Turner (offensive coordinator), Pep Hamilton (quarterbacks), Rob Boras (tight ends), Harry Hiestand (line), Luke Butkus, and Charles London will not return to the staff.

Breaking down the current team:

QB- Jay Cutler(26) finished the season well with back to back 4 TD passing games.

Final stats- 3,666 yards 60.5% 27 TD's 26 INT's 35 Sacks 76.8 QB Rating

Intersting things from Cutler- He had 4 games with 3 Passing TD's or more....but he also had 4 games with 3 INT's passing or more. All 4 of the INT games were on the road(GB, CIN, SF, BALT). Cutler threw 2 INT's once at home(GB).

Caleb Hanie(24)- has had two straight good training camps and allows the Bears to only carry 2 QBs on the roster. I am not sure how much further he develops, but he could turn into a prospect that other teams will covet in a trade.

RB- Matt Forte(24) 258 for 929 yards 3.6 4 TD 57 Rec for 471yards. Forte was bothered by a hamstring in the offseason and I read a report of a sprained MCL in week 3. How much that effected him....we don't know. But he wasn't as explosive as his rookie season and danced too much.

Adrian Peterson(30)- He should be gone this offseason.

Garrett Wolfe(25)- Will he ever develop into the 3rd down back they envisioned? He was better this past season than in any of his previous....but how much more will he develop.

Jason McKie(29)- He is a very average FB. The Bears need to improve here next season.

TE- Desmond Clark(32) Desmond had an injured up and down season. Clark probably won't return next season.

Greg Olsen(24) Olsen had a good season - 60 rec 612 8 tds. He needs to become more consistant.

Kellen Davis(24) Davis filled in well when Clark was injured. If he takes the next step, the Bears could have a great TE duo.

WR- Devin Hester(27)

Earl Bennett(22)

Jonny Knox(22)

Juaquin Iglesius(22)

Devin Aromashodu(25)

Rashied Davis(30)

OT-Orlando Pace(34) Played decent early in the year, but completely disappointed later in the year.

Chris Williams(24) Played well filling in for Pace at LT.

Kevin Shaffer(29) Played decent at RT....but a replacement would be nice.

OG/C- Olin Kreutz(32)- Olin is slipping, but his reputation gives him another year at least.

Josh Beekman(26) - Disappointed in Beekmans play. Not sure if he is strong enough to take over for Kreutz in the future or be a G.

Roberto Garza(30) - Garza is an average G.

Frank Omiyale(27) - Major flop at G. However, I think he can develop in the future.

Lance Louis (24)

DE- Adewale Ogunleye(32)

Alex Brown(30)

Mark Anderson(26)- Played better than last season, but is it enough to keep him around.

Henry Melton(23) - Young kid that is very athletic, hopefully Marinelli can make him a great DE.

DT- Tommie Harris(26) - Tommie had some games at the end of the season when he seemed to be dominant. How will he play next season?

Marcus Harrison(25)- Very disappointed year.

Anthony Adams(29)- Decent player that will never be great, but has been a pleasant surprise since he came to Chicago.

Jarron Gilbert(23)- I'm excited about this players prospects in the future.

Israel Idonije(29) - Great ST's player and MR versatility.

LB- Brian Urlacher(31) - Losing him in the first half of the first game hurt chicago....how will he be post injury next season?

Lance Briggs(29) - Injured season, but still productive and made the Pro Bowl. I feel that he could really be a HOF if he keeps this up for a few more seasons.

Hunter Hillenmeyer(29) - I wanted him cut preseason, but he was a pleasant surprise quarterbacking the defense.

Nick Roach(24) - Very athletic player that is still learning the game. He could be Briggs' replacement.

Jamar Williams(25)- Jamar has flashes of great play....but he needs to become more consistant.

Tim Shaw(25) - Pleasant surprise on ST's.

Pisa Tinoisamoa(28) - Was pretty excited about him preseason. Before he was injured I thought he played well. If he can come back 100%, I love the Bears LB's next season.

DB's- Charles Tillman(28) - Up and down season for Peanut. He had stretches of great player(forcing fumbles) and horrible play(not wanting to tackle b/c of his shoulder).

Nathan Vasher(28) he is gone!!!

Zach Bowman(25) - Disappointed from his preseason hype. However, he is very athletic and was raw. He could still develop into a great CB, he got some good experience this season.

Corey Graham(24)- He bounces around from position to position. I like him as a player, but when will he make an impact?

DJ Moore(22) - He barely played and if they change scheme(probably won't) I don't see him fitting anything outside of cover 2.

Kevin Payne(26) - Expected much more out him this season....he could be replaced if he doesn't have a great offseason.

Al Afalava(22)- For a rookie, he played well and played like a rookie at times.

Daniel Manning(27) - He is so athletic that I think as fans, we take him for granted. Will he ever be the guy? Time is running out.

Josh Bullocks(26) - He is trash get rid of him.

Craig Steltz(23) - At this point, a wasted draft pick.

P- Brad Maynard(35)- He had a great season, should've been a pro bowler.

K- Robbie Gould(28) - He had a great season, outside of missing that kick at Minnesota, he is MR Clutch.

 

[CanadianNFLJunkie]

Like I've said in another thread, I don't expect any big named coaches to go to Chicago with Lovie on a short leash. Most likely they fail to make the playoffs, new people coming in. The only exception I'd see is a named coordinator who might take over the team if Lovie gets canned DURING 2010.

 

[whitem0nkey]

Caleb Hanie(24)- has had two straight good training camps and allows the Bears to only carry 2 QBs on the roster. I am not sure how much further he develops, but he could turn into a prospect that other teams will covet in a trade.RB- Matt Forte(24) 258 for 929 yards 3.6 4 TD 57 Rec for 471yards. Forte was bothered by a hamstring in the offseason and I read a report of a sprained MCL in week 3. How much that effected him....we don't know. But he wasn't as explosive as his rookie season and danced too much.

I like the 2 QB idea and having an extra spot.but the week 3 excuse for forte's bad season. I don't buy.forte's numbers for first 4 weeks.week 1 - 25 ATT for 55 yards - 2.2 YPCweek 2 - 13 ATT for 29 yards - 2.2 YPCweek 3 - 21 ATT for 66 yrads - 3.1 YPCweek 4 - 12 ATT for 121 yards - 10 YPC for the whole season his YPC was 3.6. but pre injury it was 2.2

 

[The Dude]

I would live to see Wies as OC and Zorn as QB coach

 

[RBM]

O-line doesnt improve somehow, Cutler and Forte will continue to be worthless.

D-line doesnt figure out how to get pressure on the qb, the entire D will continue to be picked apart at will.

I guess of the two I have a better feeling about the d-line. Hopefully Marinelli can pull some magic act with Adams and Gilbert, and Harris can keep his head out of his ### for a full season.

As for the o-line, the only 2 spots I feel remotely ok about are the tackles. Williams looks like he has potential on the left, and Shaffer is adequate on the right, run blocking at least. The interior of the line is a freakin disaster.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Caleb Hanie(24)- has had two straight good training camps and allows the Bears to only carry 2 QBs on the roster. I am not sure how much further he develops, but he could turn into a prospect that other teams will covet in a trade.RB- Matt Forte(24) 258 for 929 yards 3.6 4 TD 57 Rec for 471yards. Forte was bothered by a hamstring in the offseason and I read a report of a sprained MCL in week 3. How much that effected him....we don't know. But he wasn't as explosive as his rookie season and danced too much.

I like the 2 QB idea and having an extra spot.but the week 3 excuse for forte's bad season. I don't buy.forte's numbers for first 4 weeks.week 1 - 25 ATT for 55 yards - 2.2 YPCweek 2 - 13 ATT for 29 yards - 2.2 YPCweek 3 - 21 ATT for 66 yrads - 3.1 YPCweek 4 - 12 ATT for 121 yards - 10 YPC for the whole season his YPC was 3.6. but pre injury it was 2.2

Yeh but Week 4 was vs Detriot. He had two long runs and wasn't very explosive in those runs.

 

[destro]

As for the o-line, the only 2 spots I feel remotely ok about are the tackles. Williams looks like he has potential on the left, and Shaffer is adequate on the right, run blocking at least. The interior of the line is a freakin disaster.

I agree. Specifically, I'm done with "Nasty" Olin Kreutz. I don't care how nasty he is and how big of a mean streak he has, he can't block anymore and he apparently cannot snap the ball very well, either. I'm pretty tired of the grounders out of the shotgun and the balls snapped into his own taint. Remember all of those problems with snapping the ball to Rex? You still see it happening sometimes with Cutler, and I know it's not his fault. Also, you can always count on Kreutz for a minimum of 2 penalties a game. He is brutal. Centers are not super hard to find late in the draft, so, Angelo... maybe get on that one? Or move Beekman over, I don't care. He can't be that bad.

And yeah, Omiyale is terrible, also. How did he get that contract and starting job, again? Who is this guy's agent, Satan?

 

[RBM]

As for the o-line, the only 2 spots I feel remotely ok about are the tackles. Williams looks like he has potential on the left, and Shaffer is adequate on the right, run blocking at least. The interior of the line is a freakin disaster.

I agree. Specifically, I'm done with "Nasty" Olin Kreutz. I don't care how nasty he is and how big of a mean streak he has, he can't block anymore and he apparently cannot snap the ball very well, either. I'm pretty tired of the grounders out of the shotgun and the balls snapped into his own taint. Remember all of those problems with snapping the ball to Rex? You still see it happening sometimes with Cutler, and I know it's not his fault. Also, you can always count on Kreutz for a minimum of 2 penalties a game. He is brutal. Centers are not super hard to find late in the draft, so, Angelo... maybe get on that one? Or move Beekman over, I don't care. He can't be that bad.

And yeah, Omiyale is terrible, also. How did he get that contract and starting job, again? Who is this guy's agent, Satan?

Completely agree about Olin. Guy had a great run but its over, and I dont want to see him out there getting manhandled again next year.

balls snapped into his own taint.

I laughed

 

[DoubleG]

Weiss is off the board as far as OCs go. I actually wouldn't mind seeing Martz in Chicago.

 

[the branded hand]

I would live to see Wies as OC and Zorn as QB coach

If Zorn is not in Cleveland next year Chicago would not be a bad fit... as quarterbacks coach of course.

 

[Your Mom]

Weiss is off the board as far as OCs go. I actually wouldn't mind seeing Martz in Chicago.

I like Martz as much as anyone, but this is a horrible fit for the bears. Cutler would get killed by week 4. This O-Line can't block. You need an O-Line that can block to run this system.

 

[whitem0nkey]

Weiss is off the board as far as OCs go. I actually wouldn't mind seeing Martz in Chicago.

I like Martz as much as anyone, but this is a horrible fit for the bears. Cutler would get killed by week 4. This O-Line can't block. You need an O-Line that can block to run this system.

I would rather have Jim Fassel or Jeremy Bates.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

They should go after Mike Leach as an OC.

 

[RBM]

At this point, the mess on our hands, give me Martz just to liven things up. Would be very interesting to watch for a year.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Weiss is off the board as far as OCs go. I actually wouldn't mind seeing Martz in Chicago.

I like Martz as much as anyone, but this is a horrible fit for the bears. Cutler would get killed by week 4. This O-Line can't block. You need an O-Line that can block to run this system.

I would rather have Jim Fassel or Jeremy Bates.

I think Jeremy Bates is the best fit...he has worked with Cutler and has been successful at USC as well.

 

[FavreCo]

Weiss is off the board as far as OCs go. I actually wouldn't mind seeing Martz in Chicago.

As an owner of Greg Olsen I say...have you lost your mind????

 

[DoubleG]

Weiss is off the board as far as OCs go. I actually wouldn't mind seeing Martz in Chicago.

As an owner of Greg Olsen I say...have you lost your mind????

lol - nicely played. Just a little aside for those who think Martz in Chicago won't work becuase he's all pass all the time - check Marshall Faulk's stats during the time when Martz was with the Rams. Now, I realize Faulk was a special talent and Forte is in no way close. But the two do share similar strengths (Faulk to a much larger degree) in terms of catching the ball out of the backfield, being 3 down backs, being capable of running inside or outside, etc.Also, I think Martz woul be smart enough to use Olsen more the way V. Davis gets used in SF (i.e. as a miss-match receiver, rather than as a true TE).

 

[Sweetness_34]

Omiyale actually looked good in the last few games. I went back and watched the games I DVR'ed. I think so play time with Williams helped him develop.

 

[Your Mom]

Weiss is off the board as far as OCs go. I actually wouldn't mind seeing Martz in Chicago.

As an owner of Greg Olsen I say...have you lost your mind????

lol - nicely played. Just a little aside for those who think Martz in Chicago won't work becuase he's all pass all the time - check Marshall Faulk's stats during the time when Martz was with the Rams. Now, I realize Faulk was a special talent and Forte is in no way close. But the two do share similar strengths (Faulk to a much larger degree) in terms of catching the ball out of the backfield, being 3 down backs, being capable of running inside or outside, etc.Also, I think Martz woul be smart enough to use Olsen more the way V. Davis gets used in SF (i.e. as a miss-match receiver, rather than as a true TE).

He won't work in Chicago till they get a better O-Line. His pass routes take time to develop because they are mostly deep drops. This offense isn't 3 step drops and throw. The O-Line in Chicago can't protect Cutler well enough for that offense to work. Maybe in a couple years, but not 2010 season. I am convinced Cutler will get destroyed in that offense. It is really sounding like Jeremy Bates is the leading candidate.

 

[The Dude]

Weiss is off the board as far as OCs go. I actually wouldn't mind seeing Martz in Chicago.

As an owner of Greg Olsen I say...have you lost your mind????

lol - nicely played. Just a little aside for those who think Martz in Chicago won't work becuase he's all pass all the time - check Marshall Faulk's stats during the time when Martz was with the Rams. Now, I realize Faulk was a special talent and Forte is in no way close. But the two do share similar strengths (Faulk to a much larger degree) in terms of catching the ball out of the backfield, being 3 down backs, being capable of running inside or outside, etc.Also, I think Martz woul be smart enough to use Olsen more the way V. Davis gets used in SF (i.e. as a miss-match receiver, rather than as a true TE).

He won't work in Chicago till they get a better O-Line. His pass routes take time to develop because they are mostly deep drops. This offense isn't 3 step drops and throw. The O-Line in Chicago can't protect Cutler well enough for that offense to work. Maybe in a couple years, but not 2010 season. I am convinced Cutler will get destroyed in that offense. It is really sounding like Jeremy Bates is the leading candidate.

I don't know that is a fiar criticism as why not to select Martz (not that I am advocating it either). Until proven otherwise, I have to figure Martz is smart enough to adjust his offense to his talent.

 

[flapgreen]

Since you started this thread, I refuse to post in it any further

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Omiyale actually looked good in the last few games. I went back and watched the games I DVR'ed. I think so play time with Williams helped him develop.

From what I have read during the season....Omiyale had a big adjustment to G. He indicated that the reaction skills are much faster at G than at OT. Hopefully he can develop into the G they unvisioned....or just kick him out to RT.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Weiss is off the board as far as OCs go. I actually wouldn't mind seeing Martz in Chicago.

As an owner of Greg Olsen I say...have you lost your mind????

lol - nicely played. Just a little aside for those who think Martz in Chicago won't work becuase he's all pass all the time - check Marshall Faulk's stats during the time when Martz was with the Rams. Now, I realize Faulk was a special talent and Forte is in no way close. But the two do share similar strengths (Faulk to a much larger degree) in terms of catching the ball out of the backfield, being 3 down backs, being capable of running inside or outside, etc.Also, I think Martz woul be smart enough to use Olsen more the way V. Davis gets used in SF (i.e. as a miss-match receiver, rather than as a true TE).

He won't work in Chicago till they get a better O-Line. His pass routes take time to develop because they are mostly deep drops. This offense isn't 3 step drops and throw. The O-Line in Chicago can't protect Cutler well enough for that offense to work. Maybe in a couple years, but not 2010 season. I am convinced Cutler will get destroyed in that offense. It is really sounding like Jeremy Bates is the leading candidate.

I don't know that is a fiar criticism as why not to select Martz (not that I am advocating it either). Until proven otherwise, I have to figure Martz is smart enough to adjust his offense to his talent.

Martz can't be worse than the predictable Ron Turner.

 

[Limp Ditka]

From Rotoworld......

Bengals quarterbacks coach Ken Zampese has reportedly emerged as a "potential front-runner" for the Bears offensive coordinator job.Zampese, son of longtime NFL assistant coach Ernie Zampese, is credited with Carson Palmer's development. The 42-year-old reportedly spent the day interviewing with coach Lovie Smith after receiving a recommendation from former Rams coach Mike Martz, who is no longer considered a realistic candidate for the job himself.Source: Chicago Tribune

Not sure I'm happy about this. Although I'm sure that the comment on Carson Palmer is just Rotoworld jibberish, Palmer has not been positively developed in any way over the last 4 years and some could even argue that he's regressed over that time.

 

[The Dude]

From Rotoworld......

Bengals quarterbacks coach Ken Zampese has reportedly emerged as a "potential front-runner" for the Bears offensive coordinator job.Zampese, son of longtime NFL assistant coach Ernie Zampese, is credited with Carson Palmer's development. The 42-year-old reportedly spent the day interviewing with coach Lovie Smith after receiving a recommendation from former Rams coach Mike Martz, who is no longer considered a realistic candidate for the job himself.Source: Chicago Tribune

Not sure I'm happy about this. Although I'm sure that the comment on Carson Palmer is just Rotoworld jibberish, Palmer has not been positively developed in any way over the last 4 years and some could even argue that he's regressed over that time.

Agreed. There are similar circumstances - good QB talent with limited WR talent - and that's gotten Cincy to a lame offense that doesn't score points. Which is something already have.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

CHICAGO -- When speaking to people about Ken Zampese, the first thing brought up is his proven track record of working with quarterbacks, having coached that position for the Cincinnati Bengals since 2003.

The second thing; his lack of play calling experience.

Zampese, who reportedly interviewed for the Chicago Bears offensive coordinator position, worked with Lovie Smith in St. Louis from 2001-02, and is held in high regard by those in the coaching community. In fact, Zampese had been considered for several offensive coordinator positions in the past, but for whatever reason, he didn't get the job.

Still, it might be a tough sell if the Bears hire somebody who's never been an offensive coordinator. But at this point in the search process, Zampese's name being thrown into the mix is a welcome relief and a pleasant departure from some of the other candidates speculated upon by the media.

http://espn.go.com/blog/chicago/bears/post...ive-coordinator

 

[JJP]

But how do you get a big name when Lovie and Angelo figure to get pushed out after next season? Nobody of consequence will want only a 1 year deal. Thats why you have to figure a guy like Zampiese will get hired.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

But how do you get a big name when Lovie and Angelo figure to get pushed out after next season? Nobody of consequence will want only a 1 year deal. Thats why you have to figure a guy like Zampiese will get hired.

Someone that wants to be a HC.....figures they have a shot to prove to get the job maybe. I also don't think they will get pushed out after next season.The Chicago Bears underachieved most of the season and still finished with a 7-9 record.

 

[scrumptrulescent]

What is this?

Bears interview Mike TicePosted by Mike Florio on January 14, 2010 8:26 AM ETThe man we once loved to call Meathead could be heading back to the NFC North.Dan Pompei of the Chicago Tribune reports that former Vikings coach Mike Tice will be interviewing with the Bears. Since Tice never has been an offensive coordinator, it's possible that he's being considered for some other role.Tice currently is the assistant head coach/offense in Jacksonville. The fact that he's interviewing in Chicago means that the Jaguars have given him permission to interview elsewhere.Tice's departure would remove a strong Jack Del Rio ally from the Jaguars locker room.Last week, reports emerged that former Ravens coach Brian Billick had contacted Tice regarding the possibility of joining Billick's staff in Buffalo. But with the Bills coaching search bogged down, it appears that Billick currently isn't getting strong consideration for the job.

I hope for the good fans of Chicago this is not for the OC position.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

What is this?

Bears interview Mike TicePosted by Mike Florio on January 14, 2010 8:26 AM ETThe man we once loved to call Meathead could be heading back to the NFC North.Dan Pompei of the Chicago Tribune reports that former Vikings coach Mike Tice will be interviewing with the Bears. Since Tice never has been an offensive coordinator, it's possible that he's being considered for some other role.Tice currently is the assistant head coach/offense in Jacksonville. The fact that he's interviewing in Chicago means that the Jaguars have given him permission to interview elsewhere.Tice's departure would remove a strong Jack Del Rio ally from the Jaguars locker room.Last week, reports emerged that former Ravens coach Brian Billick had contacted Tice regarding the possibility of joining Billick's staff in Buffalo. But with the Bills coaching search bogged down, it appears that Billick currently isn't getting strong consideration for the job.

I hope for the good fans of Chicago this is not for the OC position.

I am trying to remember Tice's resume. Isn't he an Oline/TE guy?If he was an OC...I would see a lot of power running and playaction...which isn't bad but the Bears don't have the OL for that.

 

[JJP]

But how do you get a big name when Lovie and Angelo figure to get pushed out after next season? Nobody of consequence will want only a 1 year deal. Thats why you have to figure a guy like Zampiese will get hired.

Someone that wants to be a HC.....figures they have a shot to prove to get the job maybe. I also don't think they will get pushed out after next season.The Chicago Bears underachieved most of the season and still finished with a 7-9 record.

They also had a 10 game period where they went 2-8 with the only wins over Detroit and Cleveland. They played well against the Vikings a few weeks ago but they needed go win their final 2 games to go 7-9.

 

[Power Monster]

LOL at this organization- excuses for being an average team this year were younger players trying to adjust to the offense with a new QB. Now they have to try to adjust to another new offense in 2010. They fire Turner but they have no plan for a new OC. Will it be an OC from one of the remaining playoff teams? Will it be Jay's guy? Will it be some young "flash in the pan" that will come cheap? Tune in tomorrow to find out- cue sappy soap opera schmaltz...

 

[Limp Ditka]

Fewell expected to accept the Giants DC job over the Bears.

 

[boubucarow]

It is hard for me to believe that the Bears will regret not firing everybody from Angelo down. I fear no one wants to work for the Bears when they know that Lovie only has his job because he would cost the Bears too much money to fire.

I hope I am wrong, but I don't see this team being any good for a couple years at least.

 

[Limp Ditka]

It is hard for me to believe that the Bears will regret not firing everybody from Angelo down. I fear no one wants to work for the Bears when they know that Lovie only has his job because he would cost the Bears too much money to fire.I hope I am wrong, but I don't see this team being any good for a couple years at least.

You're not wrong. It's exactly what's happening. Personally, I think they're doing the right thing. I said it in another thread. Let these idiots hit bottom this year and get canned instead of double paying for a HC and a GM next year.Reason one: No name coach wants to come here to start out when there's no draft to work off of.Reason two: Impending lockout in 2011 makes it silly to being paying X2 for the HC and GM when there's not even football taking place. (My assumption is these positions would still get paid during the lockout)

 

[boubucarow]

It is hard for me to believe that the Bears will regret not firing everybody from Angelo down. I fear no one wants to work for the Bears when they know that Lovie only has his job because he would cost the Bears too much money to fire.I hope I am wrong, but I don't see this team being any good for a couple years at least.

You're not wrong. It's exactly what's happening. Personally, I think they're doing the right thing. I said it in another thread. Let these idiots hit bottom this year and get canned instead of double paying for a HC and a GM next year.Reason one: No name coach wants to come here to start out when there's no draft to work off of.Reason two: Impending lockout in 2011 makes it silly to being paying X2 for the HC and GM when there's not even football taking place. (My assumption is these positions would still get paid during the lockout)

Good thoughts. We apparently just need to sit through some misery for a couple years. Maybe I'll just watch Briggs and only Briggs on defense next year as much as possible. Not sure what do to on offense to make it worthwhile.

 

[Rounders]

Or Bears fans should hit the Bears where it will do the most damage....in the Revenue line. Seriously. Don't go to games, don't buy merchandise, don't support the team. Make them field a winner before you go back.

 

[whitem0nkey]

Or Bears fans should hit the Bears where it will do the most damage....in the Revenue line. Seriously. Don't go to games, don't buy merchandise, don't support the team. Make them field a winner before you go back.

the bears are too big to be effected by a few boycotts. even if you get 85% (and you wont) of the fans to boycott they will not be effected. that applies to most of the NFL teams.

 

[SmoovySmoov]

Maybe I'll just watch Briggs and only Briggs on defense next year as much as possible.

That's exactly what I did this year. I remember one time when my mother called me disgusted after another loss wanting my thoughts, and I said "Thank God for Lance Briggs and Robbie Gould." They were just about the only two I could watch this season.

 

[Limp Ditka]

Maybe I'll just watch Briggs and only Briggs on defense next year as much as possible.

That's exactly what I did this year. I remember one time when my mother called me disgusted after another loss wanting my thoughts, and I said "Thank God for Lance Briggs and Robbie Gould." They were just about the only two I could watch this season.

Brad Maynard = speed

 

[SmoovySmoov]

Maybe I'll just watch Briggs and only Briggs on defense next year as much as possible.

That's exactly what I did this year. I remember one time when my mother called me disgusted after another loss wanting my thoughts, and I said "Thank God for Lance Briggs and Robbie Gould." They were just about the only two I could watch this season.

Brad Maynard = speed

Good point.

 

[Power Monster]

Or Bears fans should hit the Bears where it will do the most damage....in the Revenue line. Seriously. Don't go to games, don't buy merchandise, don't support the team. Make them field a winner before you go back.

I agree with this but it is likely not going to happen. In listening to the local sports talk- ESPN/ The Score- so many season ticket holders called to rage about the three stooges in upper management still being there. Actually- the predominant frustration stemmed from the disparaging press conference they held when they announced the Turner firing. Yet- no one mentioned anything about boycotting the team or dropping their season tickets.Winning in the NFL after a crummy season is plausible for the majority of organizations that have proved to be average but this Bear's act reminds me of dirty Chicago politicians mixed in with what the Cub's organization has going on. Why would anyone want to pay top money to watch an average team with arrogant leaders coughing up lame excuses about failing to win a championship year in and year out? The Bears are considered to be a "charter NFL team". The organization is going on a 25 year championship drought. However- "charter NFL team" means tradition. The Bears and Cubs have proved that you can market tradition and when you add in scarcity of tickets you have a winning formula when it comes to the bottom line. Scarcity means demand and demand means you can jack up the price of everything across the board- season tickets, tickets to the general public, parking, concessions and merchandise. Marketing tradition means you can dangle the prospect of the organization winning it all and winning it all means it cannot be missed. The hottest ticket in town. Bring in a star player (Cutler) and hope that the draft yields a few gold nuggets amongst the pan of silt (Urlacher/Briggs) and you have enough to sell the illusion that the organization is making every attempt to win. The illusion is fixed in place but the winning is inconsistent. The consistent win for the Bears is the never ending cash flow. If you look closer at this team- you see that they have a lame duck GM and a lame duck coach. The Bears have had very average drafts and multiple first round busts. They cling to a defensive system (the cover 2) that has been dissected and decoded many seasons ago. They have a QB that is a real enigma- true talent with questionable leadership skills. They surround him with average talent and mediocre receivers. They turn one of the most dynamic special team's players into a third tier NFL wide receiver. Even the field they play on is a joke. The chimp house at Lincoln Park Zoo is in better shape then their home field. The team is walking into a 2010 draft without a 1st and 2nd round pick and the collective bargaining agreement that is looming is going to kill any chance of landing an impact free agent or two. It will cost them picks- picks that they cannot give up. The next OC and DC are assured to be so wet behind the ears that they will only be yes men to the three stooges. This is just a train wreck of epic proportions but winning in the NFL is all that matters. This regime is living on borrowed time. They are clinging to the past and a losing effort to the Colts in a Super Bowl game breathes new life into an incompetent leadership year in and year out. It is a dangerous concept to believe that being part of a championship game can buy an average leadership multiple years of mediocrity. But there you have it in a nut shell. The only way it all stops is by winning or if the fans refuse the saccharine of tradition.

 

[Rounders]

Or Bears fans should hit the Bears where it will do the most damage....in the Revenue line. Seriously. Don't go to games, don't buy merchandise, don't support the team. Make them field a winner before you go back.

I agree with this but it is likely not going to happen. In listening to the local sports talk- ESPN/ The Score- so many season ticket holders called to rage about the three stooges in upper management still being there. Actually- the predominant frustration stemmed from the disparaging press conference they held when they announced the Turner firing. Yet- no one mentioned anything about boycotting the team or dropping their season tickets.Winning in the NFL after a crummy season is plausible for the majority of organizations that have proved to be average but this Bear's act reminds me of dirty Chicago politicians mixed in with what the Cub's organization has going on. Why would anyone want to pay top money to watch an average team with arrogant leaders coughing up lame excuses about failing to win a championship year in and year out? The Bears are considered to be a "charter NFL team". The organization is going on a 25 year championship drought. However- "charter NFL team" means tradition. The Bears and Cubs have proved that you can market tradition and when you add in scarcity of tickets you have a winning formula when it comes to the bottom line. Scarcity means demand and demand means you can jack up the price of everything across the board- season tickets, tickets to the general public, parking, concessions and merchandise. Marketing tradition means you can dangle the prospect of the organization winning it all and winning it all means it cannot be missed. The hottest ticket in town. Bring in a star player (Cutler) and hope that the draft yields a few gold nuggets amongst the pan of silt (Urlacher/Briggs) and you have enough to sell the illusion that the organization is making every attempt to win. The illusion is fixed in place but the winning is inconsistent. The consistent win for the Bears is the never ending cash flow. If you look closer at this team- you see that they have a lame duck GM and a lame duck coach. The Bears have had very average drafts and multiple first round busts. They cling to a defensive system (the cover 2) that has been dissected and decoded many seasons ago. They have a QB that is a real enigma- true talent with questionable leadership skills. They surround him with average talent and mediocre receivers. They turn one of the most dynamic special team's players into a third tier NFL wide receiver. Even the field they play on is a joke. The chimp house at Lincoln Park Zoo is in better shape then their home field. The team is walking into a 2010 draft without a 1st and 2nd round pick and the collective bargaining agreement that is looming is going to kill any chance of landing an impact free agent or two. It will cost them picks- picks that they cannot give up. The next OC and DC are assured to be so wet behind the ears that they will only be yes men to the three stooges. This is just a train wreck of epic proportions but winning in the NFL is all that matters. This regime is living on borrowed time. They are clinging to the past and a losing effort to the Colts in a Super Bowl game breathes new life into an incompetent leadership year in and year out. It is a dangerous concept to believe that being part of a championship game can buy an average leadership multiple years of mediocrity. But there you have it in a nut shell. The only way it all stops is by winning or if the fans refuse the saccharine of tradition.

Quite simply, this is spot on.

 

[WFR]

As a Cutler owner I hope they let him hire his own OC!

Jay Cutler-QB-Bears Jan. 15 - 10:25 am et

The Bears have involved Jay Cutler in interviews with potential offensive coordinator candidates.

Despite his train-wreck debut season in Chicago, Cutler remains the most important member of the Bears offense. Expect the new coordinator to build around Cutler and the passing game.

Source: Arlington Heights Daily Herald

 

[boubucarow]

As a Cutler owner I hope they let him hire his own OC!Jay Cutler-QB-Bears Jan. 15 - 10:25 am et The Bears have involved Jay Cutler in interviews with potential offensive coordinator candidates.Despite his train-wreck debut season in Chicago, Cutler remains the most important member of the Bears offense. Expect the new coordinator to build around Cutler and the passing game.Source: Arlington Heights Daily Herald

Problem is that it seems obvious to me the fan that Jay Cutler doesn't need a buddy buddy relationship with a QB coach or OC. If he is ever going to reach his potential, he needs someone that will push him and force him to put in the work. Of course, both could occur with the same coach. But I think that Cutler should not have much input other than trying to hire offensive coaches that will implement a system that takes advantage of his strengths.

 

[Wrigley]

This thing is a GIANT

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

This thing is a GIANT

Discussing the Bears offseason is a trainwreck?

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Mike Tice will be interviewing for the Bears OL position.

I like this much better than having him interview for the OC position.

Tice could be a good OL coach for the Bears.

 

[Your Mom]

This thing is a GIANT

Discussing the Bears offseason is a trainwreck?

No, the bears search for coaches is a trainwreck.

 

[maxwelledison]

Or Bears fans should hit the Bears where it will do the most damage....in the Revenue line. Seriously. Don't go to games, don't buy merchandise, don't support the team. Make them field a winner before you go back.

I agree with this but it is likely not going to happen. In listening to the local sports talk- ESPN/ The Score- so many season ticket holders called to rage about the three stooges in upper management still being there. Actually- the predominant frustration stemmed from the disparaging press conference they held when they announced the Turner firing. Yet- no one mentioned anything about boycotting the team or dropping their season tickets.Winning in the NFL after a crummy season is plausible for the majority of organizations that have proved to be average but this Bear's act reminds me of dirty Chicago politicians mixed in with what the Cub's organization has going on. Why would anyone want to pay top money to watch an average team with arrogant leaders coughing up lame excuses about failing to win a championship year in and year out? The Bears are considered to be a "charter NFL team". The organization is going on a 25 year championship drought. However- "charter NFL team" means tradition. The Bears and Cubs have proved that you can market tradition and when you add in scarcity of tickets you have a winning formula when it comes to the bottom line. Scarcity means demand and demand means you can jack up the price of everything across the board- season tickets, tickets to the general public, parking, concessions and merchandise. Marketing tradition means you can dangle the prospect of the organization winning it all and winning it all means it cannot be missed. The hottest ticket in town. Bring in a star player (Cutler) and hope that the draft yields a few gold nuggets amongst the pan of silt (Urlacher/Briggs) and you have enough to sell the illusion that the organization is making every attempt to win. The illusion is fixed in place but the winning is inconsistent. The consistent win for the Bears is the never ending cash flow. If you look closer at this team- you see that they have a lame duck GM and a lame duck coach. The Bears have had very average drafts and multiple first round busts. They cling to a defensive system (the cover 2) that has been dissected and decoded many seasons ago. They have a QB that is a real enigma- true talent with questionable leadership skills. They surround him with average talent and mediocre receivers. They turn one of the most dynamic special team's players into a third tier NFL wide receiver. Even the field they play on is a joke. The chimp house at Lincoln Park Zoo is in better shape then their home field. The team is walking into a 2010 draft without a 1st and 2nd round pick and the collective bargaining agreement that is looming is going to kill any chance of landing an impact free agent or two. It will cost them picks- picks that they cannot give up. The next OC and DC are assured to be so wet behind the ears that they will only be yes men to the three stooges. This is just a train wreck of epic proportions but winning in the NFL is all that matters. This regime is living on borrowed time. They are clinging to the past and a losing effort to the Colts in a Super Bowl game breathes new life into an incompetent leadership year in and year out. It is a dangerous concept to believe that being part of a championship game can buy an average leadership multiple years of mediocrity. But there you have it in a nut shell. The only way it all stops is by winning or if the fans refuse the saccharine of tradition.

Quite simply, this is spot on.