***2013 Chicago Bears Offseason Thread*** (1 Viewer)

[flapgreen]

Any opinions on maybe bringing in Singletary as DC?

Dear God, please no.

Then who? Horton? Rob Ryan? Internal promotion?

Horton would be a great hire. They've indicated some discussion with DB coach Jon Hoke, who has had multiple DC interviews the past couple of seasons.I would like to see someone with DC experience get the job. It appears that Trestman will concentrate on Offense,so having that experience on the other side of the ball calling plays will be valuable.

The only name that jumps out at me is Rob Ryan, and after seeing his work in Dallas I don't think he would be a good solution for Chicago. I don't think he got a fair shake in Dallas and think he was canned as scapegoat, but his intense persona seems like it would wear thin on the players very quickly. I honestly don't know what they should do on defense, I wasn't expecting them to have to start from scratch. Like I said earlier in the thread, I'm glad I don't have to make those decisions. I haven't spent much time researching D coaches, but there seem to be a bunch of meh options out there.

Another two guys to keep in mind would be: Jack Del Rio and Todd Bowles

Why would Del Rio leave Denver for the same position?Bowles is headed to Ariz with Arians.

Right

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Any opinions on maybe bringing in Singletary as DC?

Dear God, please no.

Then who? Horton? Rob Ryan? Internal promotion?

Horton would be a great hire. They've indicated some discussion with DB coach Jon Hoke, who has had multiple DC interviews the past couple of seasons.I would like to see someone with DC experience get the job. It appears that Trestman will concentrate on Offense,so having that experience on the other side of the ball calling plays will be valuable.

The only name that jumps out at me is Rob Ryan, and after seeing his work in Dallas I don't think he would be a good solution for Chicago. I don't think he got a fair shake in Dallas and think he was canned as scapegoat, but his intense persona seems like it would wear thin on the players very quickly. I honestly don't know what they should do on defense, I wasn't expecting them to have to start from scratch. Like I said earlier in the thread, I'm glad I don't have to make those decisions. I haven't spent much time researching D coaches, but there seem to be a bunch of meh options out there.

Another two guys to keep in mind would be: Jack Del Rio and Todd Bowles

Why would Del Rio leave Denver for the same position?Bowles is headed to Ariz with Arians.

Not saying they would take the job, but looking for productive 4-3 coordinators. Bowles was rumored to going there, yes, but he has a solid future and you never know.

 

[flapgreen]

Any opinions on maybe bringing in Singletary as DC?

Dear God, please no.

Then who? Horton? Rob Ryan? Internal promotion?

Horton would be a great hire. They've indicated some discussion with DB coach Jon Hoke, who has had multiple DC interviews the past couple of seasons.I would like to see someone with DC experience get the job. It appears that Trestman will concentrate on Offense,so having that experience on the other side of the ball calling plays will be valuable.

Ray Horton angry after Cardinals hire Bruce Arianshe's a quality coordinator. and was about to become a HC, I know he has run a different defense than we currently employ, but im sure Emry has had a conversation with him already to see if he wan adjust his system to fit our players.the only negative is that after 2 years he may leave us for a HC job.

I'd be down with that one.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

FINALLY, Darryl Drake is gone! That turd should've been gone years ago. Hurt the progress of the wrs for years on this team. Another one of your boys, Benson. Babich moving on as well. Not sure on Hoke yet but I'll bet he's gone as well. Lost the entire staff. :(

You're annoying, continually complain like a teenage girl, and gain entitlement by digging at people. However, the point of this thread is to share thoughts/ideas and gain a better knowledge of Chicago Bears football.Darryl Drake is a good coach. Have the Bears continually supplied him with great WR's since he arrived? No. QB play has only gotten better recently and it still isn't great. However Drake has coached 5 of the top 27 single season reception leaders in franchise history and 4 of the top 23 in yardage. Both include four different players: Marshall/Berrian/Muhammed/Hester in rec. Marshall/Berrian/Muhammed/Knox in yards. Drake turned Berrian(3rd round pick) into a solid player, then when Berrian left for more money, he didn't continue to progress. In fact, 2 of his best 3 seasons in the NFL were in Chicago. But that's Drake's fault right?Johnny Knox was a 5th round pick(how many of 5th rounders produce?) from a small school. Drake turned him around into an almost 1,000 yard WR. The only time Chicago supplied him with a great player, he turned in the best performance not only in Chicago Bears history, but also in Marshall's career(spanning 7 seasons). Marshall set career highs in receptions, yards, touchdowns, and was still above his career average in YPC. Marshall finished 2nd in the NFL in receptions, 3rd in yards, and fourth in touchdowns. Certainly this isn't a sign of a bad coach.

Let's not get things twisted. You like to talk a lot if junk to me, but then disappear for months and act like I'm the only one that does it. Then, you spin it like I'm a child and don't want to discuss football. You're the only one I dig at. There's a reason for it. Also, let's not make it sound like a personal thing. The worst thing I've said is that you don't know much about football. Much worse things have been said in these threads. If you can't see through the trash and I bother you that much, I guess you could go the way of Stat and block me. However, I see it as silly when someone goes to the trouble of going to a different page to enter me into a block list, when I never make personal attacks. You can do as you like, though.Eta: There's absolutely nothing to indicate Drake is a good coach. You can only use the "he had nothing to work with" excuse for so long.

1) You dig up posts from months ago to puff out your chest about things that didn't turn out well. Nothing is 100% in football. You've indicated you would leave multiple times and haven't. Take out the personal stuff and only discuss football. You've also made comments in my profile that are jabs, want me to post them?2) Drake made a great WR better, that's not the sign of a good coach? What is your criteria then?

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Matt Cavanaugh QB coachSkip Peete RB coach

 

[whitem0nkey]

Graham takes a shot at former Bears coach Lovie Smith

Lovie Smith, he loved what I did as a special teamer and that's what he wanted from me, no matter what," Graham said, via USA Today. "So I could go out and practice, get six interceptions at corner, but no matter what I was going to be Corey Graham, special teamer."Graham spent his first five seasons in Chicago, where he started just 10 games, nine of them in 2008. He has started the past 10 games for the Ravens, who were decimated by injuries in the secondary this season. Graham's two-interception performance propelled the Ravens into Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots.Graham also pointed out that Smith overlooked Brendon Ayanbadejo, who filled in as a starter for Ray Lewis for three games this season, when the two were with the Bears (2007 to 2009).

 

[flapgreen]

Matt Cavanaugh QB coachSkip Peete RB coach

What???

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Matt Cavanaugh QB coachSkip Peete RB coach

What???

They've been named as the respective hires at the positions.

 

[Statcruncher]

Chicago Bears Clean House On Offense

Here's the way the coaching staff is currently structured:

[*]Marc Trestman: Head Coach

[*]Joe DeCamillis: Special Teams Coordinator/Assistant Head Coach

[*]Aaron Kromer: Offensive Coordinator/Offensive Line

[*]Matt Cavanaugh: Quarterbacks Coach

[*]Skip Peete: Running Backs Coach

[*]Andy Bischoff: Tight Ends Coach

[*]Jim Arthur: Strength and Conditioning Coach

[*]Gill Byrd: Assistant Defensive Backs/Safeties

[*]Jon Hoke: Defensive Backs

[*]Rusty Jones: Strength and Conditioning Coordinator

[*]Mike Phair: Defensive Line

Available positions:

Keep in mind the offensive positions listed below are likely already filled but have not been announced.

[*]Wide Receivers Coach

[*]Defensive Coordinator

[*]Linebackers Coach(s)

[*]Additional assistant positions

 

[flapgreen]

FINALLY, Darryl Drake is gone! That turd should've been gone years ago. Hurt the progress of the wrs for years on this team. Another one of your boys, Benson. Babich moving on as well. Not sure on Hoke yet but I'll bet he's gone as well. Lost the entire staff. :(

You're annoying, continually complain like a teenage girl, and gain entitlement by digging at people. However, the point of this thread is to share thoughts/ideas and gain a better knowledge of Chicago Bears football.Darryl Drake is a good coach. Have the Bears continually supplied him with great WR's since he arrived? No. QB play has only gotten better recently and it still isn't great. However Drake has coached 5 of the top 27 single season reception leaders in franchise history and 4 of the top 23 in yardage. Both include four different players: Marshall/Berrian/Muhammed/Hester in rec. Marshall/Berrian/Muhammed/Knox in yards. Drake turned Berrian(3rd round pick) into a solid player, then when Berrian left for more money, he didn't continue to progress. In fact, 2 of his best 3 seasons in the NFL were in Chicago. But that's Drake's fault right?Johnny Knox was a 5th round pick(how many of 5th rounders produce?) from a small school. Drake turned him around into an almost 1,000 yard WR. The only time Chicago supplied him with a great player, he turned in the best performance not only in Chicago Bears history, but also in Marshall's career(spanning 7 seasons). Marshall set career highs in receptions, yards, touchdowns, and was still above his career average in YPC. Marshall finished 2nd in the NFL in receptions, 3rd in yards, and fourth in touchdowns. Certainly this isn't a sign of a bad coach.

Let's not get things twisted. You like to talk a lot if junk to me, but then disappear for months and act like I'm the only one that does it. Then, you spin it like I'm a child and don't want to discuss football. You're the only one I dig at. There's a reason for it. Also, let's not make it sound like a personal thing. The worst thing I've said is that you don't know much about football. Much worse things have been said in these threads. If you can't see through the trash and I bother you that much, I guess you could go the way of Stat and block me. However, I see it as silly when someone goes to the trouble of going to a different page to enter me into a block list, when I never make personal attacks. You can do as you like, though.Eta: There's absolutely nothing to indicate Drake is a good coach. You can only use the "he had nothing to work with" excuse for so long.

1) You dig up posts from months ago to puff out your chest about things that didn't turn out well. Nothing is 100% in football. You've indicated you would leave multiple times and haven't. Take out the personal stuff and only discuss football. You've also made comments in my profile that are jabs, want me to post them?2) Drake made a great WR better, that's not the sign of a good coach? What is your criteria then?

Yeah I actually did jab at you in your profile. Forgot about that one. Lol. I brought up posts from months ago once in the old thread. Enough with the exaggerations. You make plenty of bold statements and defend them by using the same responses anytime someone disagrees with you, basically saying they're foolish and are attacking you. This isn't a business meeting. It's a messageboard. What would we discuss if we always took the approach that the team knows better than we do, so we should take them at their word? I'll always agree or disagree with moves that the team makes. That doesn't mean I'm an NFL GM or I could do the job better than them. That point of view makes absolutely no sense.I'm not even sure how to elaborate further on Drake. How did he make Marshall better? Cutler forced passes to him all season. He's always been great. The only reason he had a career year is because Jay ignored everyone else. The other receivers were basically ignored and few have made even a little progress in the years he has been here. How much more proof do you need? It can't get any more obvious than that.

 

[flapgreen]

Matt Cavanaugh QB coachSkip Peete RB coach

What???

They've been named as the respective hires at the positions.

I meant "what" as in they just hired the Jets qb coach.

 

[whitem0nkey]

League sources say Bears very interested in Mel Tucker to be their defensive coordinator. He could be the man.

4-3 base, a lot of Cover-2. Fits #Bears defensive personnel. RT @1901Madison: @AdamHogeCBS what kind of scheme does Tucker run?

 

[whitem0nkey]

Any opinions on maybe bringing in Singletary as DC?

Dear God, please no.

Then who? Horton? Rob Ryan? Internal promotion?

Horton would be a great hire. They've indicated some discussion with DB coach Jon Hoke, who has had multiple DC interviews the past couple of seasons.I would like to see someone with DC experience get the job. It appears that Trestman will concentrate on Offense,so having that experience on the other side of the ball calling plays will be valuable.

Ray Horton angry after Cardinals hire Bruce Arianshe's a quality coordinator. and was about to become a HC, I know he has run a different defense than we currently employ, but im sure Emry has had a conversation with him already to see if he wan adjust his system to fit our players.the only negative is that after 2 years he may leave us for a HC job.

I'd be down with that one.

Browns officially hired Ray Horton as their DC.

 

[flapgreen]

League sources say Bears very interested in Mel Tucker to be their defensive coordinator. He could be the man.

4-3 base, a lot of Cover-2. Fits #Bears defensive personnel. RT @1901Madison: @AdamHogeCBS what kind of scheme does Tucker run?

Solid coach.

 

[whitem0nkey]

League sources say Bears very interested in Mel Tucker to be their defensive coordinator. He could be the man.

4-3 base, a lot of Cover-2. Fits #Bears defensive personnel. RT @1901Madison: @AdamHogeCBS what kind of scheme does Tucker run?

Solid coach.

per pompei on why he is a good fitHe is highly respected from his work as a coordinator in Jacksonville. He is an experienced defensive play caller. He has run both 4-3s and 3-4s. And he is known for his discipline.

 

[Psychopav]

League sources say Bears very interested in Mel Tucker to be their defensive coordinator. He could be the man.

4-3 base, a lot of Cover-2. Fits #Bears defensive personnel. RT @1901Madison: @AdamHogeCBS what kind of scheme does Tucker run?

Solid coach.

per pompei on why he is a good fitHe is highly respected from his work as a coordinator in Jacksonville. He is an experienced defensive play caller. He has run both 4-3s and 3-4s. And he is known for his discipline.

3-4? Also, did I read he was with Cleveland under Romeo Crennel?

 

[3nOut]

Raheem Morris to interview with Bears

 

[whitem0nkey]

Tucker Named Bears Defensive Coordinator

 

[RBM]

Good hire. He gets a major upgrade in personnel.

 

[whitem0nkey]

Since we tried to keep Marinelli, and he did not want to stay i'm glad we acted fast and got Tucker who sounds like a solid pick. teams are swooping in and piking up assistants now, and fast. the bears have acted like a pro team during this process.will this group win superbowls? I don't know, but I like a lot of what I have seen.

 

[flapgreen]

The Mel Tucker hire looks to be a great one. Matt Cavanaugh? Why on Earth would they even consider that guy?

 

[whitem0nkey]

The Mel Tucker hire looks to be a great one. Matt Cavanaugh? Why on Earth would they even consider that guy?

you can't just look at last 2 year when they pushed tebow on him. I also think Sanchez is a bum. he was here in Chicago and made Kramer have an amazing season.

won a super bowl with ravens and made dilfer a superbowl QB.

MVP on sugar bowl

this is not some chump, yes he is not the best QB coach, but he is fine, Marc Trestman is the QB whisperer. I have a feeling that being a QB coach under Trestman is a bit like being the defensive coordinator under Lovie.

As long as Trestman has someone he trusts, I'm cool with whoever at QB coach.

 

[twistd]

Since we tried to keep Marinelli, and he did not want to stay i'm glad we acted fast and got Tucker who sounds like a solid pick. teams are swooping in and piking up assistants now, and fast. the bears have acted like a pro team during this process.will this group win superbowls? I don't know, but I like a lot of what I have seen.

I agree about the Tucker hiring. I am not familiar with him, but I am glad that they acted swiftly when it was determined Marinelli wasn't coming back. Across the board, a lot of the new coaches are people I don't know, but it seems that Emery and Trestman acted quickly and decisively to get the guys they wanted. If the first guy wasn't interested, in the case of Marinelli, they had a back up plan. Even in the hiring of a Head Coach, Emery did a lot of interviewing, but when he narrowed the list he moved quick. A distinct difference from when the Bears were hunting for an OC the last two times, when they couldn't seem to get anyone interested, and then the process dragged out forever. I don't know the guys they hired, but they seemed to get the guys they wanted. If feel good about that.

 

[flapgreen]

Keeping Phair and Hoke.

 

[flapgreen]

Assembled a very good defensive staff, so it appears.

 

[maxwelledison]

Homer glasses on for the first time in years but this offseason maneuvering feels different. At the very least Emery isn't playing CYA because if these moves don't work out he's on the hook in a major way.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Coaching staff looks very good.I'm dreaming, but here are two prospects I want in Chicago:Round one- Tavon Austin WR. I outlined this before, but he's a playmaker...something Chicago needs. He can work the slot, reverses, track down passing down the seam, be a return guy. But most importantly, be a threat and take pressure off of others on offense.Round two- Tyrann Mathieu CB LSU. Chicago had issues matching up with other WRs in the slot: Randall Cobb/Percy Harvin/Ryan Broyles are talented players they have to matchup in the slot just in the division. Mathieu could be great at that and is a playmaker. He always is knocking the ball loose and creating turnovers. Tough player, who likes to tackle. Yes he has the off the field stuff, which is why he may be available in the second round. He probably won't even make it to the Bears second round pick.OL help, yes it will happen. RT can't be drafted because Jonathan Scott/Carimi deserve at least another year. LT, Webb actually finished in the positive in pass protection, if this is addressed it will be in free agency...Brandon Albert. I see Lane Johnson and Eric Fisher gone by pick 20. A couple of free agents and middle round picks. Don't forget that Aaron Kromar made pro bowl players out of 4th/5th round pick in New Orleans: Nicks, Evans, Bushrod.

 

[RBM]

Jesus Benson....you just don't get it do you? Your dream scenario has us taking a ####### wr in the first round???

 

[flapgreen]

Jesus Benson....you just don't get it do you? Your dream scenario has us taking a ####### wr in the first round???

With the two big moves at wr last year, I give it a 0.0069% chance we take a wr in first 2 rounds. Even moreso, taking a cb in the 2nd round, who didn't even play football last year because he got kicked off the team, after we had both cbs just make the pro bowl isn't happening either. What's wrong with you, man? Wait until mid rounds or later again to address OL and keep sticking with Webb at tackle, because Kromar developed a few guys?

 

[KCitons]

Yeah Benson, what the hell is wrong with you? How dare you have an independent opinion about a your favorite team!! (that's sarcasm, in case any of you are getting your MLK drunk on)The one thing I'm trying to keep in mind is that every player on the Bears team is going to play differently under the new coaching staff. Some will be better, some worse. Every player in the NFL got there because they had the right size/speed/talent to make a roster. After that it comes down to how the coaches "coach". Could any of the Bears current Offensive linemen become pro bowlers? I tend to think no. But, then again, I am not an NFL coach. (at last check, neither are any of you)Look at how far Alex Smith had fallen prior to Jim Harbaugh being hired as the 49ers head coach. Smith was the 1st pick in the draft! What happened to him? Poor coaching? Something changed when Harbaugh showed up. It's no secret that the Bears (Lovie/Tice) struggled with the OL the past few years. Maybe it was poor personnel, maybe it was just poor coaching. Things are certainly going to change over the coming months. But, the ability of any fan to have the solution is ridiculous.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Jesus Benson....you just don't get it do you? Your dream scenario has us taking a ####### wr in the first round???

1) Have you seen both players play? If the Bears need one thing on this team it's playmakers.2) Did you read my whole post? In it, I explain that Both Fisher/Lane Johnson are already off the board at 20. Joeckel is top 5 pick. Warmack should be gone as well. Leaving: Jonathan Cooper C/G UNC, Barrett Jones C/G Alabama, Dallas Thomas OT/G Tennessee, DJ Fluker OT Alabama, OT Kyle Long Oregon. Thomas/Fluker are RT's, do you really want to give up on Carimi already or not give Jonathan Scott a whole season? Kyle Long is too light and needs more development, more of a 2/3rd round pick. Cooper is a good player, you can argue him. Barrett Jones is more of a second round guy. I don't want to reach because of need, that's when you make a bad pick. Tavon Austin is a consensus late first round pick.3) Please tell me what I don't get? I've watched every Bears game via All-22 film, so I watch the coaches film.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Jesus Benson....you just don't get it do you? Your dream scenario has us taking a ####### wr in the first round???

With the two big moves at wr last year, I give it a 0.0069% chance we take a wr in first 2 rounds. Even moreso, taking a cb in the 2nd round, who didn't even play football last year because he got kicked off the team, after we had both cbs just make the pro bowl isn't happening either. What's wrong with you, man? Wait until mid rounds or later again to address OL and keep sticking with Webb at tackle, because Kromar developed a few guys?

The Packers had: Jennings, Nelson, Cobb, Jones, Finley as weapons and it's been a productive 3 year run in the division. Adding Austin only evens that out and Mathieu helps take away one of their best weapons. I want to beat Green Bay. Step one, get some WR's with size(happened last year). Step two, protect Cutler and open up the run game for Forte. Step three, obtain playmakers. We already found coaches that will hopefully utilize/develop players more.Kromer developed a few guys, you dismiss it. 2002- OL coach for Raiders. Pro Bowlers Lincoln Kennedy(1st round), Barrett Robbins(2nd round)2009- OL coach Saints. Pro Bowlers Jon Stinchcomb(2nd round), Jahri Evans(4th round), Jonathan Goodwin(5th round)2011- OL coach Saints. Pro Bowlers Jahri Evans(4th round), Carl Nicks(5th round), Jermon Bushrod(4th round)Overall One 1st round pick, Two 2nd round picks, two 4th round picks, two 5th round picks.

 

[twistd]

Coaching staff looks very good.I'm dreaming, but here are two prospects I want in Chicago:Round one- Tavon Austin WR. I outlined this before, but he's a playmaker...something Chicago needs. He can work the slot, reverses, track down passing down the seam, be a return guy. But most importantly, be a threat and take pressure off of others on offense.Round two- Tyrann Mathieu CB LSU. Chicago had issues matching up with other WRs in the slot: Randall Cobb/Percy Harvin/Ryan Broyles are talented players they have to matchup in the slot just in the division. Mathieu could be great at that and is a playmaker. He always is knocking the ball loose and creating turnovers. Tough player, who likes to tackle. Yes he has the off the field stuff, which is why he may be available in the second round. He probably won't even make it to the Bears second round pick.OL help, yes it will happen. RT can't be drafted because Jonathan Scott/Carimi deserve at least another year. LT, Webb actually finished in the positive in pass protection, if this is addressed it will be in free agency...Brandon Albert. I see Lane Johnson and Eric Fisher gone by pick 20. A couple of free agents and middle round picks. Don't forget that Aaron Kromar made pro bowl players out of 4th/5th round pick in New Orleans: Nicks, Evans, Bushrod.

As much as I agree that the Bears need another WR, I think that is a luxury that the Bears probably can't afford. The line is the first priority. If the Bears were to get Albert, I would be thrilled. But I find it hard to imagine that the Chiefs allow him to get away. If the Bears could sign Albert they could possibly put him in as the LT. Webb might be able to compete with Scott for the RT spot. Webb is never going to be a competent LT. Hopefully his skills would translate to RT. Carimi needs to be moved to guard. He may be a complete bust, but they need to see if he can play guard. These are the rankings of the Bears o-linemen by Pro Football Focus. These are players who played at least 25% of the snaps at this position:Garza-30th out of 36Webb-47th out of 80Scott-63 out of 80Carimi-74 out of 80Louis-47 out of 81Spencer-50 out of 81Rachal-75 out of 81Contrast with the rankings of the SF line:Godwin-10 of 36Staley-1 of 80Davis-11 of 80Boone-3 of 81Iupati-5 of 81This should demonstrate that the Bears need to upgrade the entire o-line talent pool. They have no offensive linemen that are even average at their position. So to imagine that the Bears can hope that Kromer can fix this line, without a major upgrade in talent, is fantasy. That is the same story we heard when Tice was hired. He was this o-line genius who could overcome the lack of talent. It didn't work. And if you handcuff Kromer with the same pitiful group of o-linemen we will be having this same conversation next year. I think they really need to focus on getting at least two more linemen in the draft, and another in free agency. I would like to see at least two, maybe three, new starters on the line. They aren't going to jump up to a top 10 unit in a year, but they need to at least get in to range of the average.

 

[KCitons]

Interesting comparison between the Bears OL and the 49ers. Keep in mind that Staley, Iupati and Davis are all 1st round picks. (Davis and Iupati in the same year) Carimi, Spencer (1st round), and Rachal (2nd round) evidently had the physical talent and ability to grade out for those spots. So, why does Staley, Iupati and Davis succeed?Take a closer look and you see that Goodwin was selected in the 5th round by the Jets (2002). He signed with the Saints in 2006 and didn't have any starts in 2007. But in 2008 he was part of an OL that was coached by Aaron Kromer. He didn't play in 2009 or the 2010 Superbowl season. (not sure if there was an injury) He signed with the 49ers in 2011, just as Harbaugh and his coaching staff arrive. Goodwin has started every game since.Alex Boone is another interesting case. An undrafted rookie in 2009, he was signed by the 49ers, cut and resigned to the practice squad in 2010. He played in one game in 2010. But again in 2011, when the new staff arrives, Boone is handed the job and started every game since. What's my point? I think there is a lot more to coaching than we want to believe. Players change teams, and teams change coaches. Who knows what current players will suddenly become productive. Don't get me wrong, I would like to see the Offensive Line problems fixed. But, who is to say reaching for players in the draft (and passing by other quality players) is the right answer.

 

[RBM]

They have no offensive linemen that are even average at their position. So to imagine that the Bears can hope that Kromer can fix this line, without a major upgrade in talent, is fantasy. That is the same story we heard when Tice was hired. He was this o-line genius who could overcome the lack of talent. It didn't work. And if you handcuff Kromer with the same pitiful group of o-linemen we will be having this same conversation next year. I think they really need to focus on getting at least two more linemen in the draft, and another in free agency. I would like to see at least two, maybe three, new starters on the line. They aren't going to jump up to a top 10 unit in a year, but they need to at least get in to range of the average.

Summed it up wellWe upgrade the line and TE, we are contenders next year. And on D we are looking at a huge hole in the middle, so that should be top priority on that side. After that, then yeah, we prob could use an injection of speed at rb and wr.

 

[flapgreen]

They have no offensive linemen that are even average at their position. So to imagine that the Bears can hope that Kromer can fix this line, without a major upgrade in talent, is fantasy. That is the same story we heard when Tice was hired. He was this o-line genius who could overcome the lack of talent. It didn't work. And if you handcuff Kromer with the same pitiful group of o-linemen we will be having this same conversation next year. I think they really need to focus on getting at least two more linemen in the draft, and another in free agency. I would like to see at least two, maybe three, new starters on the line. They aren't going to jump up to a top 10 unit in a year, but they need to at least get in to range of the average.

Summed it up wellWe upgrade the line and TE, we are contenders next year. And on D we are looking at a huge hole in the middle, so that should be top priority on that side. After that, then yeah, we prob could use an injection of speed at rb and wr.

Right. OL, LB, TE. If we can get part of the way to upgrading all of those positions, the other positions can be addressed later. Have to go at those 3.

 

[flapgreen]

Jesus Benson....you just don't get it do you? Your dream scenario has us taking a ####### wr in the first round???

With the two big moves at wr last year, I give it a 0.0069% chance we take a wr in first 2 rounds. Even moreso, taking a cb in the 2nd round, who didn't even play football last year because he got kicked off the team, after we had both cbs just make the pro bowl isn't happening either. What's wrong with you, man? Wait until mid rounds or later again to address OL and keep sticking with Webb at tackle, because Kromar developed a few guys?

The Packers had: Jennings, Nelson, Cobb, Jones, Finley as weapons and it's been a productive 3 year run in the division. Adding Austin only evens that out and Mathieu helps take away one of their best weapons. I want to beat Green Bay. Step one, get some WR's with size(happened last year). Step two, protect Cutler and open up the run game for Forte. Step three, obtain playmakers. We already found coaches that will hopefully utilize/develop players more.Kromer developed a few guys, you dismiss it. 2002- OL coach for Raiders. Pro Bowlers Lincoln Kennedy(1st round), Barrett Robbins(2nd round)2009- OL coach Saints. Pro Bowlers Jon Stinchcomb(2nd round), Jahri Evans(4th round), Jonathan Goodwin(5th round)2011- OL coach Saints. Pro Bowlers Jahri Evans(4th round), Carl Nicks(5th round), Jermon Bushrod(4th round)Overall One 1st round pick, Two 2nd round picks, two 4th round picks, two 5th round picks.

I'm all for addressing the things you mentioned, but wr is further down the list at this point, cb even further than that. It would be a huge mistake to not address OL and TE first, not to mention MLB if they show Urlacher the door as you suggested. I hope that Emery sees it that way as well, and I think he will. Let's not forget 2nd string qb either.

 

[GreenNGold]

I already started this thread here: http://forums.footballguys.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=669005&st=0&p=15048452entry15048452Maybe mods can merge these two threads? The only thing I know, is that my only t-shirt that does not go out of style from year to year is the one that says "Da Bears Still Suck" on it! If you would like me to save you some time, I can start the 2014 Chicago Bears Offseason Thread now too!

 

[Psychopav]

I already started this thread here: http://forums.footballguys.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=669005&st=0&p=15048452entry15048452Maybe mods can merge these two threads? The only thing I know, is that my only t-shirt that does not go out of style from year to year is the one that says "Da Bears Still Suck" on it! If you would like me to save you some time, I can start the 2014 Chicago Bears Offseason Thread now too!

Is Matthews bringing an appetizer or a dessert to Urlacher's Super Bowl party?

 

[sho nuff]

Jesus Benson....you just don't get it do you? Your dream scenario has us taking a ####### wr in the first round???

With the two big moves at wr last year, I give it a 0.0069% chance we take a wr in first 2 rounds. Even moreso, taking a cb in the 2nd round, who didn't even play football last year because he got kicked off the team, after we had both cbs just make the pro bowl isn't happening either. What's wrong with you, man? Wait until mid rounds or later again to address OL and keep sticking with Webb at tackle, because Kromar developed a few guys?

The Packers had: Jennings, Nelson, Cobb, Jones, Finley as weapons and it's been a productive 3 year run in the division. Adding Austin only evens that out and Mathieu helps take away one of their best weapons. I want to beat Green Bay. Step one, get some WR's with size(happened last year). Step two, protect Cutler and open up the run game for Forte. Step three, obtain playmakers. We already found coaches that will hopefully utilize/develop players more.Kromer developed a few guys, you dismiss it. 2002- OL coach for Raiders. Pro Bowlers Lincoln Kennedy(1st round), Barrett Robbins(2nd round)2009- OL coach Saints. Pro Bowlers Jon Stinchcomb(2nd round), Jahri Evans(4th round), Jonathan Goodwin(5th round)2011- OL coach Saints. Pro Bowlers Jahri Evans(4th round), Carl Nicks(5th round), Jermon Bushrod(4th round)Overall One 1st round pick, Two 2nd round picks, two 4th round picks, two 5th round picks.

What do Jennings, Nelson, Cobb, Jones and Finley have in common?None of them were 1st round picks.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Jesus Benson....you just don't get it do you? Your dream scenario has us taking a ####### wr in the first round???

With the two big moves at wr last year, I give it a 0.0069% chance we take a wr in first 2 rounds. Even moreso, taking a cb in the 2nd round, who didn't even play football last year because he got kicked off the team, after we had both cbs just make the pro bowl isn't happening either. What's wrong with you, man? Wait until mid rounds or later again to address OL and keep sticking with Webb at tackle, because Kromar developed a few guys?

The Packers had: Jennings, Nelson, Cobb, Jones, Finley as weapons and it's been a productive 3 year run in the division. Adding Austin only evens that out and Mathieu helps take away one of their best weapons. I want to beat Green Bay. Step one, get some WR's with size(happened last year). Step two, protect Cutler and open up the run game for Forte. Step three, obtain playmakers. We already found coaches that will hopefully utilize/develop players more.Kromer developed a few guys, you dismiss it. 2002- OL coach for Raiders. Pro Bowlers Lincoln Kennedy(1st round), Barrett Robbins(2nd round)2009- OL coach Saints. Pro Bowlers Jon Stinchcomb(2nd round), Jahri Evans(4th round), Jonathan Goodwin(5th round)2011- OL coach Saints. Pro Bowlers Jahri Evans(4th round), Carl Nicks(5th round), Jermon Bushrod(4th round)Overall One 1st round pick, Two 2nd round picks, two 4th round picks, two 5th round picks.

What do Jennings, Nelson, Cobb, Jones and Finley have in common?None of them were 1st round picks.

The point is Chicago needs playmakers...difference makers. Whether they find them in the 1st or 7th round. Tavon Austin and Tyrann Mathieu are two players that fit and are needs in Chicago.GB spent 2nd/3rd round picks on all of those players, big investments for playmakers and it's worked for them.

 

[RBM]

Maybe the Packers have a much better personnel/scouting dept than us. Their 1st rounders have been alot more successful as well. Rodgers, Raji, Hawk, Matthews, Bulaga. They are just good at drafting talent. We have sucked at it.

 

[sho nuff]

The point is Chicago needs playmakers...difference makers. Whether they find them in the 1st or 7th round. Tavon Austin and Tyrann Mathieu are two players that fit and are needs in Chicago.GB spent 2nd/3rd round picks on all of those players, big investments for playmakers and it's worked for them.

Sure...and those players are not enough right now even for GB.Why? Because the O and Dlines get manhandled.I don't think Chicago's WRs were the problem this year. Not to say they are stocked there...they do need some guys in there. But with Marshall and Jeffrey you have the start. No need to go WR or TE before the late 2nd or 3rd round. There are playmakers there. Then again, Ted Thompson is not walking through the door to pick them for you (his one area that he can find gems...some at CB too).Im with the others...you can think some guys will improve...but the OL needs to be addressed and addressed strongly (GB needs to do the same...don't want to just trust Bulaga and Sherrod can do it...nor trust that EDS can play center).

 

[sho nuff]

Maybe the Packers have a much better personnel/scouting dept than us. Their 1st rounders have been alot more successful as well. Rodgers, Raji, Hawk, Matthews, Bulaga. They are just good at drafting talent. We have sucked at it.

Only 2 out of those are all out studs.Raji has a chance...but he does get overworked and overhyped a bit.Bulaga is a question mark...he was getting whipped last year before his injury.Hawk...is great, if he were a 3rd round pick...not the #5 overall. Solid but unspectacular...and may very well be replaced this coming year.

 

[Statcruncher]

I already started this thread here: http://forums.footba...Maybe mods can merge these two threads? The only thing I know, is that my only t-shirt that does not go out of style from year to year is the one that says "Da Bears Still Suck" on it! If you would like me to save you some time, I can start the 2014 Chicago Bears Offseason Thread now too!

Your 15 - 1 and done T-shirt will never go out of style either lol.

 

[RBM]

Maybe the Packers have a much better personnel/scouting dept than us. Their 1st rounders have been alot more successful as well. Rodgers, Raji, Hawk, Matthews, Bulaga. They are just good at drafting talent. We have sucked at it.

Only 2 out of those are all out studs.Raji has a chance...but he does get overworked and overhyped a bit.Bulaga is a question mark...he was getting whipped last year before his injury.Hawk...is great, if he were a 3rd round pick...not the #5 overall. Solid but unspectacular...and may very well be replaced this coming year.

They are all starters and contributors. Bulaga doesn't need to get pulled mid season in fear of getting his qb killed does he?Put it this way....I would be thrilled to take all 3 off your hands.

 

[Statcruncher]

Agree with Sho nuffs sentiments, fix the o-line first. And yes, Chicago has historically bad drafts while Green Bay has been awesome. Homefully Emery will change that. Aside from O-linemen fill the other gaping hole at TE, then start to work on the defensive side of the ball. Another WR would be sweet, but in a quick hitting scheme with good blocking I think Forte, Marshall, Jeffrey, Bennett, a real TE, and some tactical application of Knox/Hester* should be fine. There's not much depth after the starters, but 2014 is the offseason to address that. Give Cutler time and we'll find out if WR is still really a need and if Cutler is really a franchise QB.* Ideally Knox will return and be used as a WR #4 to stretch the field leaving Hester to returns only. But I doubt Knox will play this year so I'm assuming Hester will fill that role. Whichever takes this role should only get about offensive 15 snaps per game.

 

[sho nuff]

Maybe the Packers have a much better personnel/scouting dept than us. Their 1st rounders have been alot more successful as well. Rodgers, Raji, Hawk, Matthews, Bulaga. They are just good at drafting talent. We have sucked at it.

Only 2 out of those are all out studs.Raji has a chance...but he does get overworked and overhyped a bit.Bulaga is a question mark...he was getting whipped last year before his injury.Hawk...is great, if he were a 3rd round pick...not the #5 overall. Solid but unspectacular...and may very well be replaced this coming year.

They are all starters and contributors. Bulaga doesn't need to get pulled mid season in fear of getting his qb killed does he?Put it this way....I would be thrilled to take all 3 off your hands.

True...Bulaga did not get pulled (though, in that Seattle game, he certainly could have).We would gladly give you all Hawk

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

The point is Chicago needs playmakers...difference makers. Whether they find them in the 1st or 7th round. Tavon Austin and Tyrann Mathieu are two players that fit and are needs in Chicago.GB spent 2nd/3rd round picks on all of those players, big investments for playmakers and it's worked for them.

Sure...and those players are not enough right now even for GB.Why? Because the O and Dlines get manhandled.I don't think Chicago's WRs were the problem this year. Not to say they are stocked there...they do need some guys in there. But with Marshall and Jeffrey you have the start. No need to go WR or TE before the late 2nd or 3rd round. There are playmakers there. Then again, Ted Thompson is not walking through the door to pick them for you (his one area that he can find gems...some at CB too).Im with the others...you can think some guys will improve...but the OL needs to be addressed and addressed strongly (GB needs to do the same...don't want to just trust Bulaga and Sherrod can do it...nor trust that EDS can play center).

GB only got manhandled by the 49ers, it's because they play a different game. Just like how a lot of NFL teams went pass happy with fast players everywhere, the 49ers reversed it into a ground and pound attack. GB's lines need work though.As I indicated earlier: If Eric Fisher OT or Lane Johnson OT, I don't see a LT worthy of the 20th overall pick. It's one thing to say address Offensive Line, but it's another to reach on a player. If they wanted an interior lineman, then look to Chance Warmack G Bama...likely gone. Jonathan Cooper G UNC is worthy of the 20th pick. He's the only other option at OL. Which is why I suggested Tavon Austin in round one, then taking a lineman worthy of the pick.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Coaching staff looks very good.I'm dreaming, but here are two prospects I want in Chicago:Round one- Tavon Austin WR. I outlined this before, but he's a playmaker...something Chicago needs. He can work the slot, reverses, track down passing down the seam, be a return guy. But most importantly, be a threat and take pressure off of others on offense.Round two- Tyrann Mathieu CB LSU. Chicago had issues matching up with other WRs in the slot: Randall Cobb/Percy Harvin/Ryan Broyles are talented players they have to matchup in the slot just in the division. Mathieu could be great at that and is a playmaker. He always is knocking the ball loose and creating turnovers. Tough player, who likes to tackle. Yes he has the off the field stuff, which is why he may be available in the second round. He probably won't even make it to the Bears second round pick.OL help, yes it will happen. RT can't be drafted because Jonathan Scott/Carimi deserve at least another year. LT, Webb actually finished in the positive in pass protection, if this is addressed it will be in free agency...Brandon Albert. I see Lane Johnson and Eric Fisher gone by pick 20. A couple of free agents and middle round picks. Don't forget that Aaron Kromar made pro bowl players out of 4th/5th round pick in New Orleans: Nicks, Evans, Bushrod.

As much as I agree that the Bears need another WR, I think that is a luxury that the Bears probably can't afford. The line is the first priority. If the Bears were to get Albert, I would be thrilled. But I find it hard to imagine that the Chiefs allow him to get away. If the Bears could sign Albert they could possibly put him in as the LT. Webb might be able to compete with Scott for the RT spot. Webb is never going to be a competent LT. Hopefully his skills would translate to RT. Carimi needs to be moved to guard. He may be a complete bust, but they need to see if he can play guard. These are the rankings of the Bears o-linemen by Pro Football Focus. These are players who played at least 25% of the snaps at this position:Garza-30th out of 36Webb-47th out of 80Scott-63 out of 80Carimi-74 out of 80Louis-47 out of 81Spencer-50 out of 81Rachal-75 out of 81Contrast with the rankings of the SF line:Godwin-10 of 36Staley-1 of 80Davis-11 of 80Boone-3 of 81Iupati-5 of 81This should demonstrate that the Bears need to upgrade the entire o-line talent pool. They have no offensive linemen that are even average at their position. So to imagine that the Bears can hope that Kromer can fix this line, without a major upgrade in talent, is fantasy. That is the same story we heard when Tice was hired. He was this o-line genius who could overcome the lack of talent. It didn't work. And if you handcuff Kromer with the same pitiful group of o-linemen we will be having this same conversation next year. I think they really need to focus on getting at least two more linemen in the draft, and another in free agency. I would like to see at least two, maybe three, new starters on the line. They aren't going to jump up to a top 10 unit in a year, but they need to at least get in to range of the average.

I don't think comparing Chicago's OL(one of the worst in the league) to the 49ers the best in the league is in our best interests. In order to make that happen and let players develop it could take up to 5 years. 49ers used 3 first round picks, it took time to develop them, etc. In 5 years Cutler will be mid 30's and Marshall will be nearing the end. Peppers will be retired along with Briggs and Tillman.Point being Chicago's window is small with the age of the defense. Drafting an OL in the first round may or may not be an upgrade(depending on if they reach), but addressing some players that can come in right away is advantageous.