Fantasy Football - Footballguys Forums
This is a sample guest message. Register a free account today to become a member! Once signed in, you'll be able to participate on this site by adding your own topics and posts, as well as connect with other members through your own private inbox!
Chicago Bears 2012 Offseason Thread (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter benson_will_lead_the_way
- Start date
steelcitysledgehammers
Footballguy
All I know is we went to the NFCC with Webb at RT and we were 7-3 with him at LT before the injuries to our starting QB and pro-bowl RB. I don't think having Webb at tackle is as dire a situation as it's being portrayed. Go Bears!'KCitons said:
J
KCitons
Footballguy
I could argue that we could have won a Super Bowl had we addressed the problems on the Offensive Line.
If Williams is not going to compete with Webb at LT, then someone please tell me who the backup LT is to Webb? Even if you want to be generous and give Webb a passing grade, if he gets hurt, the next person to step in is going to be really bad.
benson_will_lead_the_way
Footballguy
I tend to stay on the positive side(being negative is thrown around enough in society) and wait to pass judgement that a player isn't going to make it.In the end Webb finished as one of the worst LT's last season. He is 23 however, perhaps with more development he can form into an average LT. I don't think he can make it to the elite level however, I don't think he has quick enough feet.'steelcitysledgehammers said:
Last edited by a moderator:
flapgreen
Footballguy
'flapgreen said:I made it up
The Tick
Footballguy
Oh wait guys, I checked our roster and don't worry we are set, we have three OT's on the roster. Levi Horn is listed on the roster as an OT, so they got it covered.(Serious sarcasm of course)
KCitons
Footballguy
Something else to consider about Webb in particular as well as the end of the Martz offense- Martz lent a lot of help to the tackles by keeping in TEs in pass protection which could mask even worse problems. Running a more modern spread offense is great, but by definition you lose that help. Protecting Cutler from getting sacked 60 times is of course top priority and isn't likely to happen in the new offense... but that doesn't mean you aren't going to have to run some longer developing plays on 3rd and long etc at key times in the game. So yes, Cutler gets hit less often, but from a 'winning games' point of view you STILL have to figure out how to protect him on 5 and 7 step drops, even if they happen less often. And you probably have to figure out how to do it with less bodies in protection. The pressure on the tackles could actually be worse this year at key moments.
twistd
Footballguy
My remote viewing capabilities would be remote viewing websites, in addition to using my own eyes. Here is another example, from the offseason report of Fantasy Guru and Pro Football Focus's evaluation of the Bears needs. The first is from Fantasy Guru. Notice that both put the number one need for the Bears as offensive tackle.Chicago Bears'steelcitysledgehammers said:
Picks: 19, 50, 79, 111, 150, 184, 220
Top Needs:
1. Offensive Tackle – The Bears addressed the offensive line in the 1st round of last year’s draft by taking Wisconsin OT Gabe Carimi, but this unit remains a big issue. Carimi started just two games and had knee surgery, while starting LT J’Marcus Webb has struggled in pass protection. The Bears will have to think hard about drafting someone like Ohio State’s Mike Adams or Stanford’s Jonathan Martin in the 1st round. Yes, that would mean taking an OT early in back-to-back years, but the unit continued to struggle last year by allowing a 5th-most 49 sacks. They need to keep Jay Cutler on his feet.
2. Defensive End – In a division with Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford, you can never have enough pass rushers. The Bears look good with Julius Peppers and Israel Idonije, along with a developmental player in Corey Wootton, but they could still use another athletic pass rusher to go with Peppers. Illinois’ Whitney Mercilus and USC’s Nick Perry are possibilities at #19.
3. Cornerback – In a division with Rodgers and Stafford, you can never have enough cornerbacks either. Charles Tillman is entrenched in one starting spot, while Tim Jennings could use some competition at the other spot. The Bears did sign Kelvin Hayden, but, again, taking a CB is never a bad idea, especially in this division. They could target South Carolina’s Stephon Gilmore or Alabama’s Dre Kirkpatrick if they decide to go that route in the 1st round.
Fantasy Outlook: The most likely fantasy position the Bears will target is probably WR, where the Bears could still look to team Brandon Marshall up with someone like Notre Dame’s Michael Floyd, which could be formidable. At TE, outgoing OC Mike Martz ignored the position, but Mike Tice could get it more involved. The Bears re-signed Kellen Davis as the starter with Matt Spaeth behind him, but an upgrade would be a good idea. Clemson’s Dwayne Allen, Georgia’s Orson Charles, and UL Lafayette’s Ladarius Green are all worth targeting on Day Two.
Team Needs 2012…Chicago Bears
February 29th, 2012 | Author: Nathan Jahnke
From the time Lovie Smith took over as the Bears’ head coach, they’ve been an average team at worst who, at times, flirts with greatness. While they need to take care of a few of their own guys first (starting with Matt Forte), they have needs elsewhere that can be filled.
In the past, Chicago has shown no problem making the big moves in the offseason to improve their football team. In 2009 they traded for Jay Cutler, and in 2010 they added Julius Peppers. Both moves greatly altered how the team played on their respective sides of the ball. With the Packers being the class of the division and the Lions continuing to rise, the Bears need to make some changes in order to keep up.
Here are just three of the changes the Bears could make this offseason to help their team return to playing into January.
Primary Need: Offensive Tackle
The Bears could add any quality linemen in free agency, and they would be able to find a spot along the line to use him. Last week was offensive line week here at PFF, and when we ranked the offensive line, Chicago finished at the bottom. While they could improve on the inside, tackle is the far bigger need. J’Marcus Webb (-26.2) started all 16 games at left tackle in 2011 and, while he did improve on his pass blocking compared to 2010, he still allowed 12 sacks–the most among left tackles. On the right side for most of the season was Lance Louis, who managed the third-lowest rating for right tackles at -33.5 despite starting just 12 games there.
Replacing one of the tackles will be Gabe Carimi who was a first round pick last year that unfortunately sustained a serious knee injury in Week 2. With a full offseason to learn, we’re guessing he will move to left tackle, which means the biggest need on the right. The tackle market is weak, with the most intriguing right tackle prospect being Anthony Collins of the Bengals. He started two games and played most of a third and allowed just one overall pressure in 2011. Since moving to right tackle in his second season, he has looked good in his limited time, but was buried on the Cincinnati depth chart. Pairing Carimi with Collins would be a big improvement, especially compared to recent years.
Secondary Need: Wide Receiver
In 2009 and 2010, the Bears ran with Johnny Knox, Devin Hester and Earl Bennett at receiver. Since that wasn’t working out, Roy Williams and Dane Sanzenbacher were added to the mix for 2011. Last season, Hester and Sanzenbacher had two of the lowest catch rates in the league as both caught less than 51% of passes thrown their way. It’s looking like Roy Willliams’ one-year experiment might be over as he is a free agent and Bennett had one catch or less in five of his last six games. Knox’s status is uncertain for the start of 2012 due to a serious back injury he sustained against Seattle. This team is sorely in need of a makeover at the receiver position.
The Bears likely will want to keep Bennett in the slot, so they need someone who can play out wide. Of the available unrestricted free agents, Vincent Jackson (+5.0) might be the best. He’s a high-risk receiver that had eight dropped passes in 2011, but high reward too, with nine touchdowns and 18.4 yards per catch. The Bears are used to receivers who aren’t always consistent, but can sometimes make the big plays. Jackson is just that, but a much better version than what’s currently on the roster.
Tertiary Need: Safety
Chicago has used third round picks on safeties the last two years in Chris Conte (-2.1) and Major Wright (-5.0). Neither player has panned out yet, although it is definitely not too late in their careers. The Bears are a unique team in that they like rotating players in and out at safety more than most. They likely need at least a third man to bring in competition and push everyone to be better. Both Craig Steltz (+4.8) and Brandon Meriweather (-3.2) are free agents who are likely to look for a home elsewhere, which leaves a big opening on the depth chart.
Someone who can come in and win a starting job is Thomas DeCoud who has spent the first part of his carrier with the Falcons. In 2010, the Bears had Danieal Manning and Chris Harris who brought a strong run stopping presence that Chicago was lacking in 2011. DeCoud had a run defense rating of +4.4, which was the 12th-best for safeties. He had some problems in coverage early on in the season, but was solid down the stretch. He would make it three third round picks at the position on the roster, but DeCoud has performed better than Conte or Wright so far.
benson_will_lead_the_way
Footballguy
Yes I would.
flapgreen
Footballguy
We really need to hit on the top 3 picks in the draft. We really neeEssentially, we have only signed one definite starter in free agency with Marshall, and probably lost one in Okoye. I realize we needed depth, but I expected more than one starter to be signed considering the cap space we had. That's very disappointing to me. Agree with it or not, most of the league views our OL as weak. The top teams continue to put their emphasis on OL, while we mostly ignore it. To continue beating a dead horse, I just don't understand it. If we can add 3 starters to the team through the draft, specifically OL DE and WR, I'm optimistic about our chances. If we miss, which is highly likely with any team in the draft, I'll be very concerned. If McNeil is still out there after the draft and we don't draft a tackle, it would be crazy not to take a chance on him for a small price. I hope it's only coach speak, but Lovie saying they're not signing a tackle in free agency because it would make it appear they aren't comfortable with Webb at LT, is just plain silliness. We shall see...
Eta: I do love that they signed a guard this week, even if I don't know who he is. It shows that at least Emery is making a move to do something about the porous OL. Add in another possible starter on OL, DL and WR, and we're in business. Emery has made some good moves. I hope it continues through the draft.
Eta: I do love that they signed a guard this week, even if I don't know who he is. It shows that at least Emery is making a move to do something about the porous OL. Add in another possible starter on OL, DL and WR, and we're in business. Emery has made some good moves. I hope it continues through the draft.
Last edited by a moderator:
fridayfrenzy
Footballguy
Browns would laugh at that offer. Trading up 15 spots in the first round for a RB with a one year contract who will want to be paid a lot of money. Not happening. If Kalil is available at the #4 pick, Cleveland will have many offers that will involve multiple first round picks plus some.
3nOut
Footballguy
So you are saying that you we be upset if it happened?
RBM
Footballguy
Lets say contributor instead of starter. Very hard to expect a rookie d lineman to start. But other than that Im with you.
twistd
Footballguy
A number of the mock drafts I have seen have the Bears taking Kendall Wright at 19. I was really hoping for a DE or an OT. I would be surprised if they draft a WR. Anyone familiar with Wright? I've heard Michael Floyd's name brought up with the Bears, but I don't think he will be there when they pick.
fridayfrenzy
Footballguy
We can all dream. Howabout if they traded Matt Forte for Detroit's first rounder, Calvin Johnson and Suh?
benson_will_lead_the_way
Footballguy
Are you being positive and optimistic? I thought that was my job.
flapgreen
Footballguy
Don't get used to it...
DoubleG
Footballguy
After I read that line you quoted, I looked back over to the left to double check whose post I was reading.
flapgreen
Footballguy
Like this?
benson_will_lead_the_way
Footballguy
Michael Floyd will be gone and no other WR is worth the 19th pick. If they trade down, I would settle for Alshon Jeffery.
But I think at 19 it will be a DL/OL.
But I think at 19 it will be a DL/OL.
flapgreen
Footballguy
Don't count out Kendall Wright yet. Everyone was all over this guy until he ran a slow 40 in his underwear at the combine. Most teams don't put as much stock in the 40 as the media does. Before the combine, Wright was projected ahead of Floyd by most people. Now, all of a sudden, Floyd is a top 10 pick and Wright is late first. I don't buy it. The game tape doesn't lie.
Trade down and take Alshon? Are you nuts? No way should that turd be our first pick. That guy is trouble and everyone knows it. The Bears will never go for him. He's more of a Jets type guy. Bears would be much better off going for Sanu or Martin, if they're available in the 2nd.
Trade down and take Alshon? Are you nuts? No way should that turd be our first pick. That guy is trouble and everyone knows it. The Bears will never go for him. He's more of a Jets type guy. Bears would be much better off going for Sanu or Martin, if they're available in the 2nd.
Last edited by a moderator:
DoubleG
Footballguy
'flapgreen said:Like this?'DoubleG said:'benson_will_lead_the_way said:
Aaron Rodgers? Aaron #$@!!%&*#@ Rodgers?!?You did NOT just post an Aaron Dag Gum Rodgers commercial in a Bears thread.
Sometimes I think I don't know you at all...
...oh, wait.
Statcruncher
Footballguy
benson_will_lead_the_way
Footballguy
Who's had a better off season Jeffery or Wright? Jeffery by a mile. Wright is also a midget...we have enough of them. He also can't get in great shape for a future career...when will he ever get in great shape? I'm starting to think RGIII made Wright look very good. I have Wright projected as a second round pick.Game tape doesn't lie? I've watched 4 of Wrights games and I see many plays he doesn't make in traffic...doesn't sound like a difference maker at the next level.
I worry about Wright's work ethic too. I just don't think a WR in round 1 is a wise move at all. Too many needs elsewhere, and while I like the prospects of some of the guys that will be there, the Bears really need as close to a sure thing as possible with that pick, and all of those guys have question marks. If they don't like the DL/OL talent that is there I think they should trade out of that pick if possible and go for quantity over questionable quality- but I think there will be some good defensive linemen there.
benson_will_lead_the_way
Footballguy
If you just listened to Phil Emery's press conference....he thinks Webb is a LT and a starter.
Also Free agency has allowed the Bears to be flexible in the 1st round.
Also Free agency has allowed the Bears to be flexible in the 1st round.
The Tick
Footballguy
Only thing I would consider besides one of the line would be linebacker if Kuechly drops or one of the top three DB's if there is a rush on linemen and we just lose the value there.Still think DE is the best chance to get someone to come in and start making an immediate impact.
flapgreen
Footballguy
Tell me how Jeffrey has had a better offseason.
flapgreen
Footballguy
Work ethic??? Wat. Where are you getting that from?
flapgreen
Footballguy
I'm not advocating the Bears taking Wright. I'm saying I wouldn't rule it out. I'd prefer taking a wr in the 2nd, but it will ultimately come down to who is available in each round.
However, I am advocating the Bears not take Jeffrey. This guy is a punk and was reported by many scouts to have a bad attitude. He didn't fall out of the first because of his physical ability. He didn't even participate at the combine.
However, I am advocating the Bears not take Jeffrey. This guy is a punk and was reported by many scouts to have a bad attitude. He didn't fall out of the first because of his physical ability. He didn't even participate at the combine.
RBM
Footballguy
Not sure how anyone can take Jeffrey in the first or second. What weight will he be playing at? How would anyone know? He was special in college at like 230, but then he works out at like 215 or less. Bad sign.
mlball77
Footballguy
FTR, I don't want to see CHI take a rd 1 WR. I'd be ok with one in the 2nd or 3rd... or anytime after that. DL and OL are bigger needs, imo, but it sounds to me like CHI is going to stick largely to their guns with the current group of o-linemen (if Emery is sold on Webb at LT).
Could CHI end up taking a DB in the first... or at least the second?
Could CHI end up taking a DB in the first... or at least the second?
benson_will_lead_the_way
Footballguy
Tested out better...in better shape...etc.'flapgreen said:
flapgreen
Footballguy
huh. Tested out where? He barely participated at the combine and was reported to have been overweight at one point. As RBM said, no one knows what weight he will be playing at. He didn't set the world on fire at his pro day, and he also had lost a considerable amount of weight relatively quickly, according to reports. Take it for what it's worth, but Jefferey may not even get drafted in the 2nd. Randle will definitely go ahead of him now, as well as Wright.
flapgreen
Footballguy
I have no idea. I think some are just echoing what Lovie is saying. Almost everyone around the league knows that LT is our biggest weakness.
benson_will_lead_the_way
Footballguy
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1123069-south-carolina-football-alshon-jefferys-speedy-forty-times-prove-critics-wronghttp://bleacherreport.com/articles/1122725-2012-nfl-draft-news-wr-alshon-jeffery-back-in-1st-after-south-carolina-pro-dayhttp://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Alshon-Jefferys-stock-is-back-on-the-rise.htmlhttp://www.mockingthedraft.com/2012/3/28/2909002/2012-nfl-draft-alshon-jeffery-improves-his-stock-at-pro-dayRan between a 4.38-4.47, 36.5 vertical jump, 10'2 broad jump, weighs 213, and is tall. Why is that not a good option opposite Marshall? Let Bennett/Hester/Knox/etc play the slot.Why am I bringing up Jeffery? He made a pre-draft visit to Chicago.
benson_will_lead_the_way
Footballguy
He's 23 and from a small school. He should still be improving...but how much?
benson_will_lead_the_way
Footballguy
Why? Because you're generally negative about everyone? Who are you positive about?
benson_will_lead_the_way
Footballguy
Kendall Wright-Even more worrisome than his lack of strength was his 16 percent body fat, one of the highest percentages for a receiver in the past decade and indicative of a lack of discipline. The average Bod Pod test for a receiver is in the single digits. Purdue’s Keith Smith recorded the highest mark among receivers a year ago at 14.1 percent and stood 214 pounds. Smaller receivers like Wright, who measured 5-10 1/4, 197 pounds at Baylor's pro day in late March, are expected to be more sleek.
-“Randall Cobb was a lot better,” said one of the league’s best evaluators. “Wright is nowhere near as good with the ball in his hands and (Cobb) lasted 'til the back of the second (round). People are getting snookered — I did the first time I watched (Wright), seeing all the long TDs on the perimeter. Go back and watch how many tackles he really eludes and runs away from and tell me how many you find.”
-4.61 at the combine and 4.41-4.46 at his pro day.
What's better 4.41-4.46 at 5'10 1/4 197 with 16 percent body fat vs a 4.38-4.47 6'3 216?
