Chicago Bears 2012 Offseason Thread (1 Viewer)

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Signing Colston just reeks of Muhsin Muhammed part 2. I view him 29 going on 35. Lot of wear on Colston's wheels -- he's a tremendous receiver for the lack of separation he gets.

I'd either sign Vincent Jackson and draft Kendall Wright in Round 1 or sign Manningham and draft Michael Floyd. (I don't think the Bears end up with Jackson -- I think he'll get an enormous deal from someone....and probably quickly)

They obviously must overhaul WR. Hester plan hasn't work, who knows if Knox plays again. If Earl can stay healthy, throw him in the slot.

No thanks on Colston. 29 year old slot receiver with 5 past knee surgeries. No way I would pay him. Jackson, on the other hand, that's a different story. We the cap space. WR is our biggest need. He's a stud receiver in his prime. For once in my lifetime, we need a big time wide receiver. Guys like him aren't on the market often. Now's the time to do it. No injury history. Multiple great seasons in a row. It's never going to get any better than Jackson. Yes, he's a little older, but no team is going to let a young receiver walk, anyway. Pay the man!

huh?Never has hit any of these stats: 70 catches, 1200 yards, 10 TDs.

If Jackson has had 3 great season in a row, then Wes Welker has been out of this galaxy.

 

[flapgreen]

Avril, Mario, Bowe, Colston, Vincent still available as of right now. Come on Chiefs! Be stupid and don't re-sign Bowe. I'd love Bowe and Avril, as long as Avril doesn't want top 5 money.

Bowe tagged as expected. So now it's down to Jackson or Colston for a #1 WR. I really think we are going to get outbid for both of these guys, and I'm not sure if that's good or bad, I think both will be paid big, and Colston's knees concern me for a long term contract.

Agreed, give me a few other solid FA signings. Meachem/Manningham/Wayne type of WR or two. Then draft WR round 1.

Don't get me wrong, I think we need to make a strong push to get Jackson, I'm just having that gut feeling that says we get beat out. For Colston, if we are going to overpay him, try and keep it a shorter contract offer, three years or so.My first round choice is still Floyd, but if he is gone, there isn't another WR I would take first round. So if we missed him, Meachem/Manningham/Wanye aren't going to make us that much better in my opinion.

I agree with the bolded. The Bears need a #1 WR, and specifically a big-bodied one if available. Just like you said, guys like Manningham probably aren't a big enough improvement to the current group to justify the coin they'll get to play in CHI. Floyd seems a good fit, imo, and of course V Jackson and Colston would be a huge upgrade at WR.

It's time to spend big money on an offensive player. We've already wasted Cutler over the past two seasons. Get some wide receivers and some legitimate offensive lineman. I'm sick of this crap spewed from Lovie and Tice about developing the current players. We don't have years to develop guys. They either stink, or they don't. This coaching staff so inept at developing offensive talent, it's pathetic. Cutler's obviously fed up. Sign a couple of proven guys who won't get our quarterback killed and go from there. Why sign guys who have never really been number one guys on their own team? Don't pay big money to someone you hope can be the guy. Pay someone who WILL be the guy.

 

[flapgreen]

Signing Colston just reeks of Muhsin Muhammed part 2. I view him 29 going on 35. Lot of wear on Colston's wheels -- he's a tremendous receiver for the lack of separation he gets.

I'd either sign Vincent Jackson and draft Kendall Wright in Round 1 or sign Manningham and draft Michael Floyd. (I don't think the Bears end up with Jackson -- I think he'll get an enormous deal from someone....and probably quickly)

They obviously must overhaul WR. Hester plan hasn't work, who knows if Knox plays again. If Earl can stay healthy, throw him in the slot.

No thanks on Colston. 29 year old slot receiver with 5 past knee surgeries. No way I would pay him. Jackson, on the other hand, that's a different story. We the cap space. WR is our biggest need. He's a stud receiver in his prime. For once in my lifetime, we need a big time wide receiver. Guys like him aren't on the market often. Now's the time to do it. No injury history. Multiple great seasons in a row. It's never going to get any better than Jackson. Yes, he's a little older, but no team is going to let a young receiver walk, anyway. Pay the man!

huh?Never has hit any of these stats: 70 catches, 1200 yards, 10 TDs.

If Jackson has had 3 great season in a row, then Wes Welker has been out of this galaxy.

3 consecutive 1000 yard seasons isn't "great"? What is, then? I'm not talking about Calvin, Welker etc. Those guys have definitely been "out of this galaxy", but they're not going to be available, nor should they be. It's time to finally put up big cash for an offensive player. The Saints and Pats do it all of the time with their own guys. It's an offensive league and you need big weapons to compete, not continue paying mid-tier guys hoping they can develop. You do that through the draft, which we haven't done well in for years. We have fallen behind most of the league in offensive weapons. We can start drafting better, but we need a couple of guys right now. Our best players are aging fast, while the offense continues to fall behind year after year.

 

[mlball77]

Avril, Mario, Bowe, Colston, Vincent still available as of right now. Come on Chiefs! Be stupid and don't re-sign Bowe. I'd love Bowe and Avril, as long as Avril doesn't want top 5 money.

Bowe tagged as expected. So now it's down to Jackson or Colston for a #1 WR. I really think we are going to get outbid for both of these guys, and I'm not sure if that's good or bad, I think both will be paid big, and Colston's knees concern me for a long term contract.

Agreed, give me a few other solid FA signings. Meachem/Manningham/Wayne type of WR or two. Then draft WR round 1.

Don't get me wrong, I think we need to make a strong push to get Jackson, I'm just having that gut feeling that says we get beat out. For Colston, if we are going to overpay him, try and keep it a shorter contract offer, three years or so.My first round choice is still Floyd, but if he is gone, there isn't another WR I would take first round. So if we missed him, Meachem/Manningham/Wanye aren't going to make us that much better in my opinion.

I agree with the bolded. The Bears need a #1 WR, and specifically a big-bodied one if available. Just like you said, guys like Manningham probably aren't a big enough improvement to the current group to justify the coin they'll get to play in CHI. Floyd seems a good fit, imo, and of course V Jackson and Colston would be a huge upgrade at WR.

It's time to spend big money on an offensive player. We've already wasted Cutler over the past two seasons. Get some wide receivers and some legitimate offensive lineman. I'm sick of this crap spewed from Lovie and Tice about developing the current players. We don't have years to develop guys. They either stink, or they don't. This coaching staff so inept at developing offensive talent, it's pathetic. Cutler's obviously fed up. Sign a couple of proven guys who won't get our quarterback killed and go from there. Why sign guys who have never really been number one guys on their own team? Don't pay big money to someone you hope can be the guy. Pay someone who WILL be the guy.

I'm 100% with you that CHI needs to spend money and/or picks addressing OL and WR. They are both areas of significant need. We gave up a lot to land Cutler and then surrounded him with garbage (aside from Forte). It's time to get him some help. Also, I agree with your point that time is of the essence. The CHI D is getting older, the window is closing... the O needs to make big strides immediately, before the D slides. -With all of that said, I don't think the team should just throw around money just to get any decent WR to join the team. IMO, a guy like Manningham or Meachem is only a small upgrade, so I don't think it makes sense to pay them a huge premium. If they sign with CHI for a reasonable price, I'm fine with it, but only at a reasonable price. I still think it's highly important that the Bears draft or sign at least one WR this year that is 6 ft 3 inches or taller. Cutler needs someone like this in the mix.

ETA: I'd be fine with CHI drafting a first rd WR and bringing in a guy like Manningham/Meachem though. Two additions like that would be helpful. I just don't want to pay Manningham/Meachem WR1 type money.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Signing Colston just reeks of Muhsin Muhammed part 2. I view him 29 going on 35. Lot of wear on Colston's wheels -- he's a tremendous receiver for the lack of separation he gets.

I'd either sign Vincent Jackson and draft Kendall Wright in Round 1 or sign Manningham and draft Michael Floyd. (I don't think the Bears end up with Jackson -- I think he'll get an enormous deal from someone....and probably quickly)

They obviously must overhaul WR. Hester plan hasn't work, who knows if Knox plays again. If Earl can stay healthy, throw him in the slot.

No thanks on Colston. 29 year old slot receiver with 5 past knee surgeries. No way I would pay him. Jackson, on the other hand, that's a different story. We the cap space. WR is our biggest need. He's a stud receiver in his prime. For once in my lifetime, we need a big time wide receiver. Guys like him aren't on the market often. Now's the time to do it. No injury history. Multiple great seasons in a row. It's never going to get any better than Jackson. Yes, he's a little older, but no team is going to let a young receiver walk, anyway. Pay the man!

huh?Never has hit any of these stats: 70 catches, 1200 yards, 10 TDs.

If Jackson has had 3 great season in a row, then Wes Welker has been out of this galaxy.

3 consecutive 1000 yard seasons isn't "great"?

This didn't happen and no 1000 yards isn't great from a WR1. Never catching 70 receptions in a season isn't great. Nor is not reaching 10 TDs.This is why he doesn't deserve 12 million per season.

I don't disagree that we need to spend, just don't think Jackson is all that and a bag of chips.

 

[RBM]

Ive stated before and will stand by my prediction that our starting receivers on opening day will be Meachem, Bennett, and Floyd. And Im ok with that.

 

[Annyong]

I'm sure this has been covered, and i havemt followed the offseason at all, but how high is Blackmon(sp?) projected to go? Any chance they trade up for him?

 

[flapgreen]

Signing Colston just reeks of Muhsin Muhammed part 2. I view him 29 going on 35. Lot of wear on Colston's wheels -- he's a tremendous receiver for the lack of separation he gets.

I'd either sign Vincent Jackson and draft Kendall Wright in Round 1 or sign Manningham and draft Michael Floyd. (I don't think the Bears end up with Jackson -- I think he'll get an enormous deal from someone....and probably quickly)

They obviously must overhaul WR. Hester plan hasn't work, who knows if Knox plays again. If Earl can stay healthy, throw him in the slot.

No thanks on Colston. 29 year old slot receiver with 5 past knee surgeries. No way I would pay him. Jackson, on the other hand, that's a different story. We the cap space. WR is our biggest need. He's a stud receiver in his prime. For once in my lifetime, we need a big time wide receiver. Guys like him aren't on the market often. Now's the time to do it. No injury history. Multiple great seasons in a row. It's never going to get any better than Jackson. Yes, he's a little older, but no team is going to let a young receiver walk, anyway. Pay the man!

huh?Never has hit any of these stats: 70 catches, 1200 yards, 10 TDs.

If Jackson has had 3 great season in a row, then Wes Welker has been out of this galaxy.

3 consecutive 1000 yard seasons isn't "great"?

This didn't happen and no 1000 yards isn't great from a WR1. Never catching 70 receptions in a season isn't great. Nor is not reaching 10 TDs.This is why he doesn't deserve 12 million per season.

I don't disagree that we need to spend, just don't think Jackson is all that and a bag of chips.

Ok. If you want to count 2010 when he was suspended for the majority of the season, then you're right. You have a right to ignore the 2 seasons before and 1 season after that. If your idea of "great" is the likes of Calvin Johnson and Fitz, then we're talking about 2 different things. I never said he was Top 5. If you plan on going after a big name wide receiver that's available in free agency, you're not going to find a guy more dominant than Jackson in any year. It just doesn't happen. He's a dominant force on the football field and requires double coverage at almost all times. Surely, you have watched the Chargers and have seen the attention he commands from opposing teams. He would make an instant impact for the Bears on offense. Jackson, Floyd, Cutler and Forte on the field at the same time would change the entire offense. Jackson's amount of receptions per season on the Chargers is a pretty meaningless stat, imo.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Signing Colston just reeks of Muhsin Muhammed part 2. I view him 29 going on 35. Lot of wear on Colston's wheels -- he's a tremendous receiver for the lack of separation he gets.

I'd either sign Vincent Jackson and draft Kendall Wright in Round 1 or sign Manningham and draft Michael Floyd. (I don't think the Bears end up with Jackson -- I think he'll get an enormous deal from someone....and probably quickly)

They obviously must overhaul WR. Hester plan hasn't work, who knows if Knox plays again. If Earl can stay healthy, throw him in the slot.

No thanks on Colston. 29 year old slot receiver with 5 past knee surgeries. No way I would pay him. Jackson, on the other hand, that's a different story. We the cap space. WR is our biggest need. He's a stud receiver in his prime. For once in my lifetime, we need a big time wide receiver. Guys like him aren't on the market often. Now's the time to do it. No injury history. Multiple great seasons in a row. It's never going to get any better than Jackson. Yes, he's a little older, but no team is going to let a young receiver walk, anyway. Pay the man!

huh?Never has hit any of these stats: 70 catches, 1200 yards, 10 TDs.

If Jackson has had 3 great season in a row, then Wes Welker has been out of this galaxy.

3 consecutive 1000 yard seasons isn't "great"?

This didn't happen and no 1000 yards isn't great from a WR1. Never catching 70 receptions in a season isn't great. Nor is not reaching 10 TDs.This is why he doesn't deserve 12 million per season.

I don't disagree that we need to spend, just don't think Jackson is all that and a bag of chips.

Ok. If you want to count 2010 when he was suspended for the majority of the season, then you're right. You have a right to ignore the 2 seasons before and 1 season after that. If your idea of "great" is the likes of Calvin Johnson and Fitz, then we're talking about 2 different things. I never said he was Top 5. If you plan on going after a big name wide receiver that's available in free agency, you're not going to find a guy more dominant than Jackson in any year. It just doesn't happen. He's a dominant force on the football field and requires double coverage at almost all times. Surely, you have watched the Chargers and have seen the attention he commands from opposing teams. He would make an instant impact for the Bears on offense. Jackson, Floyd, Cutler and Forte on the field at the same time would change the entire offense. Jackson's amount of receptions per season on the Chargers is a pretty meaningless stat, imo.

Lol, you can never admit you're wrong. Vincent Jackson didn't have 3 straight 1000 yard seasons...that's a fact. He also wasn't suspended for 2010, he held out with a contract dispute.Great is being a top 5 WR. Jackson falls in that 6-15 category but he's also 29 years old.

Players like him are never free agents? I would've rather the Bears signed Sidney Rice to 7 million per year over the 12+ million it will take for VJAX. Rice at least put up a big time season and is young.

 

[RBM]

I'm sure this has been covered, and i havemt followed the offseason at all, but how high is Blackmon(sp?) projected to go? Any chance they trade up for him?

No chance. He will go no later than 7 probably.

 

[flapgreen]

Signing Colston just reeks of Muhsin Muhammed part 2. I view him 29 going on 35. Lot of wear on Colston's wheels -- he's a tremendous receiver for the lack of separation he gets.

I'd either sign Vincent Jackson and draft Kendall Wright in Round 1 or sign Manningham and draft Michael Floyd. (I don't think the Bears end up with Jackson -- I think he'll get an enormous deal from someone....and probably quickly)

They obviously must overhaul WR. Hester plan hasn't work, who knows if Knox plays again. If Earl can stay healthy, throw him in the slot.

No thanks on Colston. 29 year old slot receiver with 5 past knee surgeries. No way I would pay him. Jackson, on the other hand, that's a different story. We the cap space. WR is our biggest need. He's a stud receiver in his prime. For once in my lifetime, we need a big time wide receiver. Guys like him aren't on the market often. Now's the time to do it. No injury history. Multiple great seasons in a row. It's never going to get any better than Jackson. Yes, he's a little older, but no team is going to let a young receiver walk, anyway. Pay the man!

huh?Never has hit any of these stats: 70 catches, 1200 yards, 10 TDs.

If Jackson has had 3 great season in a row, then Wes Welker has been out of this galaxy.

3 consecutive 1000 yard seasons isn't "great"?

This didn't happen and no 1000 yards isn't great from a WR1. Never catching 70 receptions in a season isn't great. Nor is not reaching 10 TDs.This is why he doesn't deserve 12 million per season.

I don't disagree that we need to spend, just don't think Jackson is all that and a bag of chips.

Ok. If you want to count 2010 when he was suspended for the majority of the season, then you're right. You have a right to ignore the 2 seasons before and 1 season after that. If your idea of "great" is the likes of Calvin Johnson and Fitz, then we're talking about 2 different things. I never said he was Top 5. If you plan on going after a big name wide receiver that's available in free agency, you're not going to find a guy more dominant than Jackson in any year. It just doesn't happen. He's a dominant force on the football field and requires double coverage at almost all times. Surely, you have watched the Chargers and have seen the attention he commands from opposing teams. He would make an instant impact for the Bears on offense. Jackson, Floyd, Cutler and Forte on the field at the same time would change the entire offense. Jackson's amount of receptions per season on the Chargers is a pretty meaningless stat, imo.

Lol, you can never admit you're wrong. Vincent Jackson didn't have 3 straight 1000 yard seasons...that's a fact. He also wasn't suspended for 2010, he held out with a contract dispute.Great is being a top 5 WR. Jackson falls in that 6-15 category but he's also 29 years old.

Players like him are never free agents? I would've rather the Bears signed Sidney Rice to 7 million per year over the 12+ million it will take for VJAX. Rice at least put up a big time season and is young.

Wrong? Because I didn't count a season when he wasn't even on the field? I'm wrong, then. That good?You would rather the Bears have signed Rice who has been injured for half of his career and had one big season out of three?

I never meant top 5, and agree with 6-15. We were talking about different things there.

 

[flapgreen]

I'm sure this has been covered, and i havemt followed the offseason at all, but how high is Blackmon(sp?) projected to go? Any chance they trade up for him?

No chance. He will go no later than 7 probably.

none

 

[RBM]

Robert Mathis off the table....re-signed today

 

[RBM]

Bears expected to make run at free agent Vincent JacksonPosted by Evan Silva on March 5, 2012, 6:33 PM ESTGetty ImagesThe Chargers haven’t given up hope of re-signing free agent Vincent Jackson, but refusing to franchise tag their No. 1 receiver suggests they’ve at least prepared for the possibility of losing him. Jackson is easily the best wideout left on the market, and will command top dollar if he makes it through the next eight days unsigned.Both Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune and John Clayton of ESPN believe the Bears will be aggressive pursuers of Jackson if he hits free agency.McClure explained on Twitter Monday that the Bears were targeting Jackson and defensive end Cliff Avril in advance of the franchise tag deadline. Avril was tagged, but Jackson wasn’t. McClure anticipates Chicago making a push for Jackson.Clayton also tweeted Monday that he believes the Bears will “make a big run” at Jackson.At 6-foot-5 and 230 pounds, Jackson would easily be the biggest receiver on Chicago’s roster. Currently, the Bears’ biggest receiver signed for 2012 is 6-foot, 206-pound slot receiver Earl Bennett.Permalink 26 Comments Latest Stories in: Chicago Bears, Rumor Mill, San Diego Chargers, Top Stories Email

 

[flapgreen]

Ive stated before and will stand by my prediction that our starting receivers on opening day will be Meachem, Bennett, and Floyd. And Im ok with that.

Taking Nicks and Mario out of the equation, where do you think we should use the extra money under the cap if we only pick up Meachem?

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Ive stated before and will stand by my prediction that our starting receivers on opening day will be Meachem, Bennett, and Floyd. And Im ok with that.

Taking Nicks and Mario out of the equation, where do you think we should use the extra money under the cap if we only pick up Meachem?

I'd rather sign Carl Nicks or Levi Brown + Robert Meachem or Mario Manningham for the price of Vincent Jackson.

 

[Steed]

Cecil Lammey has been adamant on twitter that Eddie Royal will reconnect with Cutler and Jeremy Bates, I hope he's not the big WR signing the front office keeps referring to.

 

[flapgreen]

Levi Brown won't be that much and he's been a total bust. I don't see them signing Nicks due to the surplus of guards already on the roster, but I wouldn't be opposed either. Let's say we sign Meachem and Nicks, and then Floyd doesn't fall to us. What then? Wright? He's a smaller guy too. Go into the season with Meachem as our only upgrade at wr? That's a bad idea too. I'm thinking they push hard for Jackson and don't get backed into a corner at 19 and have a little more freedom with the pick. Due to a strong combine, it's sounding like Floyd probably won't be there, anyway.

 

[flapgreen]

Cecil Lammey has been adamant on twitter that Eddie Royal will reconnect with Cutler and Jeremy Bates, I hope he's not the big WR signing the front office keeps referring to.

He would be a good number 2/3 for us along with Bennett.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Levi Brown won't be that much and he's been a total bust. I don't see them signing Nicks due to the surplus of guards already on the roster, but I wouldn't be opposed either. Let's say we sign Meachem and Nicks, and then Floyd doesn't fall to us. What then? Wright? He's a smaller guy too. Go into the season with Meachem as our only upgrade at wr? That's a bad idea too. I'm thinking they push hard for Jackson and don't get backed into a corner at 19 and have a little more freedom with the pick. Due to a strong combine, it's sounding like Floyd probably won't be there, anyway.

I'd love to sign Nicks + Meachem and then draft Wright. Lots of bigger WR's available later in this draft too(criner, fuller, jeffrey, childs).

 

[flapgreen]

Levi Brown won't be that much and he's been a total bust. I don't see them signing Nicks due to the surplus of guards already on the roster, but I wouldn't be opposed either. Let's say we sign Meachem and Nicks, and then Floyd doesn't fall to us. What then? Wright? He's a smaller guy too. Go into the season with Meachem as our only upgrade at wr? That's a bad idea too. I'm thinking they push hard for Jackson and don't get backed into a corner at 19 and have a little more freedom with the pick. Due to a strong combine, it's sounding like Floyd probably won't be there, anyway.

I'd love to sign Nicks + Meachem and then draft Wright. Lots of bigger WR's available later in this draft too(criner, fuller, jeffrey, childs).

Might as well get Mario instead of Nicks. Our guards aren't the worst in the league, abd they're all fairly cheap. Mario will have a much bigger impact that Nicks ever could. I don't think we make a run at either, though, unless we completely whiff on the wide receiver market.Eta: Meachem is a very average receiver. He's pretty good on the New Orleans offense as a deep threat when there are so many guys to throw to, and your qb has all day. I don't think he will be much of an upgrade in Chicago.

 

[RBM]

Ive stated before and will stand by my prediction that our starting receivers on opening day will be Meachem, Bennett, and Floyd. And Im ok with that.

Taking Nicks and Mario out of the equation, where do you think we should use the extra money under the cap if we only pick up Meachem?

Take a look at a Marcus McNeil if he becomes available, and Demetrius Bell as LT options. Maybe poke around Cortland Finnegan or Brandon Carr? Definitely upgrade the backup qb situation. Maybe a Chad Henne or Jason Campbell or even bring Orton back.We have lots of needs.

 

[RBM]

Levi Brown won't be that much and he's been a total bust. I don't see them signing Nicks due to the surplus of guards already on the roster, but I wouldn't be opposed either. Let's say we sign Meachem and Nicks, and then Floyd doesn't fall to us. What then? Wright? He's a smaller guy too. Go into the season with Meachem as our only upgrade at wr? That's a bad idea too. I'm thinking they push hard for Jackson and don't get backed into a corner at 19 and have a little more freedom with the pick. Due to a strong combine, it's sounding like Floyd probably won't be there, anyway.

I'd love to sign Nicks + Meachem and then draft Wright. Lots of bigger WR's available later in this draft too(criner, fuller, jeffrey, childs).

Might as well get Mario instead of Nicks. Our guards aren't the worst in the league, abd they're all fairly cheap. Mario will have a much bigger impact that Nicks ever could. I don't think we make a run at either, though, unless we completely whiff on the wide receiver market.Eta: Meachem is a very average receiver. He's pretty good on the New Orleans offense as a deep threat when there are so many guys to throw to, and your qb has all day. I don't think he will be much of an upgrade in Chicago.

Oh I think he would be a big upgrade from our junk. He is not a stud but I like his size and speed.

 

[RBM]

Just wanted to add that I would throw all needs out the window if we got to see Mario Williams playing opposite Julius Peppers

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Ive stated before and will stand by my prediction that our starting receivers on opening day will be Meachem, Bennett, and Floyd. And Im ok with that.

Taking Nicks and Mario out of the equation, where do you think we should use the extra money under the cap if we only pick up Meachem?

Take a look at a Marcus McNeil if he becomes available, and Demetrius Bell as LT options. Maybe poke around Cortland Finnegan or Brandon Carr? Definitely upgrade the backup qb situation. Maybe a Chad Henne or Jason Campbell or even bring Orton back.We have lots of needs.

 

[flapgreen]

Ive stated before and will stand by my prediction that our starting receivers on opening day will be Meachem, Bennett, and Floyd. And Im ok with that.

Taking Nicks and Mario out of the equation, where do you think we should use the extra money under the cap if we only pick up Meachem?

Take a look at a Marcus McNeil if he becomes available, and Demetrius Bell as LT options. Maybe poke around Cortland Finnegan or Brandon Carr? Definitely upgrade the backup qb situation. Maybe a Chad Henne or Jason Campbell or even bring Orton back.We have lots of needs.

Oh definitely address OT and backup QB position. Depending on who the chargers keep, we could look at Gaither or McNeil. I'm not even sure about backup QB yet. Orton wants to start somewhere, which I think he will. Campbell and Henne most likely wat to start somewhere as well, and will at least go to a team where they might have a chance, imo. I'm not a big Finnegan fan, as I live in the Nashville area, and I think Carr will command a ton, also.

 

[flapgreen]

Just wanted to add that I would throw all needs out the window if we got to see Mario Williams playing opposite Julius Peppers

That would be half of our payroll, but it would be fun to see. It sounds like he's looking to be the highest paid defensive player in the league. Avril would've been nice, but Detroit knew better.

 

[RBM]

Also, I would like to see us make a run at Ben Grubbs. I wanted him in that draft but he went one pick ahead of us to Baltimore (we wound up grabbing Olsen). Understand our guard situation is not that bat, but I could never complain about an upgrade. Plus I would love to see Williams get a shot to play outside one more time.

 

[geoff8695]

Just wanted to add that I would throw all needs out the window if we got to see Mario Williams playing opposite Julius Peppers

THIS Instantly go from worrying about the D getting old to having the best D-line in the NFL. Would much rather spend BIG in this fashion rather than throwing 12 million/yr at VJax, praying that he doesn't get a 3rd DUI and end up suspended from the league, or having to put up with him taking plays off. If he did that crap in SD, risking his chance at a big payday, then what do you think he will do in Chicago now that he finally gets that big payday? I'm not sure I want to find out.Don't get me wrong I LOVE the "idea" of VJax and Cutler tearing it up. However, if I'm a first time GM (Emery), there is no way in hell I can justify allocating that much of my cap in a freakish talent like VJax, who some might say has a 10 cent head, and who comes with LOTS of baggage.

 

[steelcitysledgehammers]

No thanks on Colston. 29 year old slot receiver with 5 past knee surgeries. No way I would pay him. Jackson, on the other hand, that's a different story. We the cap space. WR is our biggest need. He's a stud receiver in his prime. For once in my lifetime, we need a big time wide receiver. Guys like him aren't on the market often. Now's the time to do it. No injury history. Multiple great seasons in a row. It's never going to get any better than Jackson. Yes, he's a little older, but no team is going to let a young receiver walk, anyway. Pay the man!

Have you considered...1) Both Colston and Jackson are the same age (born in '83)2) Even though Jackson has been in the league one year longer than Colston, Colston has CLEARLY outproduced Jackson in every receiving category except for Yds/Rec.3) How many times has Jackson lead his team in receptions? Never. He's always been second banana to Gates. Colston, OTOH, has lead the Saints in receptions 3-4 times during his career.4) Count up the # of games Colston has missed due to injury. Now count up the number of games Jackson has missed due to suspensions and hold-outs. Who is the greater liability?5) Jackson is one league infraction away from being suspended an entire season.Now please tell me again why you want Jackson over Colston?Go Bears!J

 

[The Tick]

No thanks on Colston. 29 year old slot receiver with 5 past knee surgeries. No way I would pay him. Jackson, on the other hand, that's a different story. We the cap space. WR is our biggest need. He's a stud receiver in his prime. For once in my lifetime, we need a big time wide receiver. Guys like him aren't on the market often. Now's the time to do it. No injury history. Multiple great seasons in a row. It's never going to get any better than Jackson. Yes, he's a little older, but no team is going to let a young receiver walk, anyway. Pay the man!

Have you considered...1) Both Colston and Jackson are the same age (born in '83)2) Even though Jackson has been in the league one year longer than Colston, Colston has CLEARLY outproduced Jackson in every receiving category except for Yds/Rec.3) How many times has Jackson lead his team in receptions? Never. He's always been second banana to Gates. Colston, OTOH, has lead the Saints in receptions 3-4 times during his career.4) Count up the # of games Colston has missed due to injury. Now count up the number of games Jackson has missed due to suspensions and hold-outs. Who is the greater liability?5) Jackson is one league infraction away from being suspended an entire season.Now please tell me again why you want Jackson over Colston?Go Bears!J

I think there is just a lot of talk out there that Colston's knees are worse than reported and could be a major issue. We've had too many problems lately drafting guys with health questions that have blown up in our face. We can't afford to have that happen either to a receiver that is going to command a ton of money. If we could keep it a short contract and not too crushing, I wouldn’t mind Colston, but I would be more comfortable locking up V. Jackson for a long period of time than Colston right now.

 

[flapgreen]

It sounds like you're not looking for a real answer, but I'll repeat what I've already said. Of course I've considered all of that. If Colston hadn't already had multiple knee surgeries and wasn't 29 in addition, he would be the obvious choice, but that's not the case. I'm a huge Colston fan. I thinks he's a great receiver, but giving him a big contract with a significant history of knee problems isn't worth it. Jackson hasn't been "second banana" to Gates in a while. How many games he's held out is a meaningless comparision to games missed due to injury. Jackson isn't going to be holding out. Both guys have their flaws, no doubt.

 

[steelcitysledgehammers]

I think there is just a lot of talk out there that Colston's knees are worse than reported and could be a major issue.

I've heard no such rumors outside of pure speculation on message boards such as these. Anyone got a link to anything concrete regarding these knee problems? As far as I'm concerned, this is one of the few offseasons where Colston isn't going to require any type of surgery or clean-up. He's in the best health of his career.He's the #1 WR we're looking for. Let's go get him!Go Bears!J

 

[The Tick]

I think there is just a lot of talk out there that Colston's knees are worse than reported and could be a major issue.

I've heard no such rumors outside of pure speculation on message boards such as these. Anyone got a link to anything concrete regarding these knee problems? As far as I'm concerned, this is one of the few offseasons where Colston isn't going to require any type of surgery or clean-up. He's in the best health of his career.He's the #1 WR we're looking for. Let's go get him!Go Bears!J

I haven't seen anything in print, but on the Score yesterday Zach Zaidman, one of the bears beat reporters, said that is what he is hearing from his contacts. So not concrete, but it's sounds to be more than just internet rumors.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

What if Chicago went out and signed:

(1 or 2) of Levi Brown OT, Demetrius Bell OT, Jared Gaither OT, Ben Grubbs OG, Scott Wells C

(1) of Courtland Finnegan CB, Brandon Carr CB

(1) Eddie Royal

Resign:

-Kellen Davis TE

-Tim Jennings CB

-Israel Idonijie DE

-Amobi Okeye DT

Draft:

Round 1- Michael Floyd/Kendall Wright

Round 2- Alshon Jeffrey/Tommy Streeter/Juron Criner

Round 3- Jeff Fuller/Ryan Broyles/Brian Quick/Greg Childs

Round 3- Cam Johnson DE

This is affordable. The Bears upgrade at OL/CB. Add a player Cutler likes in Eddie Royal and add 3 young playmaking WRs, also a pass rusher.

Why 3 WR's? Because not all of them will hit, but odds are they all won't bust either. Earl Bennett is the only WR we have, we need at least 3 more if not 4.

 

[The Tick]

What if Chicago went out and signed:(1 or 2) of Levi Brown OT, Demetrius Bell OT, Jared Gaither OT, Ben Grubbs OG, Scott Wells C(1) of Courtland Finnegan CB, Brandon Carr CB(1) Eddie RoyalResign:-Kellen Davis TE-Tim Jennings CB-Israel Idonijie DE-Amobi Okeye DTDraft:Round 1- Michael Floyd/Kendall WrightRound 2- Alshon Jeffrey/Tommy Streeter/Juron CrinerRound 3- Jeff Fuller/Ryan Broyles/Brian Quick/Greg ChildsRound 3- Cam Johnson DEThis is affordable. The Bears upgrade at OL/CB. Add a player Cutler likes in Eddie Royal and add 3 young playmaking WRs, also a pass rusher.Why 3 WR's? Because not all of them will hit, but odds are they all won't bust either. Earl Bennett is the only WR we have, we need at least 3 more if not 4.

If our new GM spent 3 straight picks on WR I think he should be fired on the spot. We have so many holes on this team that we need to start plugging, if he can't have the confidence in his top round picks to hit then he has no business being a GM.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

What if Chicago went out and signed:(1 or 2) of Levi Brown OT, Demetrius Bell OT, Jared Gaither OT, Ben Grubbs OG, Scott Wells C(1) of Courtland Finnegan CB, Brandon Carr CB(1) Eddie RoyalResign:-Kellen Davis TE-Tim Jennings CB-Israel Idonijie DE-Amobi Okeye DTDraft:Round 1- Michael Floyd/Kendall WrightRound 2- Alshon Jeffrey/Tommy Streeter/Juron CrinerRound 3- Jeff Fuller/Ryan Broyles/Brian Quick/Greg ChildsRound 3- Cam Johnson DEThis is affordable. The Bears upgrade at OL/CB. Add a player Cutler likes in Eddie Royal and add 3 young playmaking WRs, also a pass rusher.Why 3 WR's? Because not all of them will hit, but odds are they all won't bust either. Earl Bennett is the only WR we have, we need at least 3 more if not 4.

If our new GM spent 3 straight picks on WR I think he should be fired on the spot. We have so many holes on this team that we need to start plugging, if he can't have the confidence in his top round picks to hit then he has no business being a GM.

That strategy has been used numerous times in the NFL draft with success. The Bears can't afford to draft one WR, because if they bust then we are still in a huge hole.Not hitting on a pick is more than the GM's fault:-lack of motivation-coaching-injuries-can't learn/adapt to NFL game

 

[ditka85]

What if Chicago went out and signed:

(1 or 2) of Levi Brown OT, Demetrius Bell OT, Jared Gaither OT, Ben Grubbs OG, Scott Wells C

(1) of Courtland Finnegan CB, Brandon Carr CB

(1) Eddie Royal

Resign:

-Kellen Davis TE

-Tim Jennings CB

-Israel Idonijie DE

-Amobi Okeye DT

Draft:

Round 1- Michael Floyd/Kendall Wright

Round 2- Alshon Jeffrey/Tommy Streeter/Juron Criner

Round 3- Jeff Fuller/Ryan Broyles/Brian Quick/Greg Childs

Round 3- Cam Johnson DE

This is affordable. The Bears upgrade at OL/CB. Add a player Cutler likes in Eddie Royal and add 3 young playmaking WRs, also a pass rusher.

Why 3 WR's? Because not all of them will hit, but odds are they all won't bust either. Earl Bennett is the only WR we have, we need at least 3 more if not 4.

If our new GM spent 3 straight picks on WR I think he should be fired on the spot. We have so many holes on this team that we need to start plugging, if he can't have the confidence in his top round picks to hit then he has no business being a GM.

That strategy has been used numerous times in the NFL draft with success. The Bears can't afford to draft one WR, because if they bust then we are still in a huge hole.Not hitting on a pick is more than the GM's fault:

-lack of motivation

-coaching

-injuries

-can't learn/adapt to NFL game

I'd like a link to an example. I find it hard to believe a GM drafts 3 WR in a row so he can hedge his bets.

 

[RBM]

Eddie Royal? Eddie friggin Royal? Is that shtick?

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

What if Chicago went out and signed:

(1 or 2) of Levi Brown OT, Demetrius Bell OT, Jared Gaither OT, Ben Grubbs OG, Scott Wells C

(1) of Courtland Finnegan CB, Brandon Carr CB

(1) Eddie Royal

Resign:

-Kellen Davis TE

-Tim Jennings CB

-Israel Idonijie DE

-Amobi Okeye DT

Draft:

Round 1- Michael Floyd/Kendall Wright

Round 2- Alshon Jeffrey/Tommy Streeter/Juron Criner

Round 3- Jeff Fuller/Ryan Broyles/Brian Quick/Greg Childs

Round 3- Cam Johnson DE

This is affordable. The Bears upgrade at OL/CB. Add a player Cutler likes in Eddie Royal and add 3 young playmaking WRs, also a pass rusher.

Why 3 WR's? Because not all of them will hit, but odds are they all won't bust either. Earl Bennett is the only WR we have, we need at least 3 more if not 4.

If our new GM spent 3 straight picks on WR I think he should be fired on the spot. We have so many holes on this team that we need to start plugging, if he can't have the confidence in his top round picks to hit then he has no business being a GM.

That strategy has been used numerous times in the NFL draft with success. The Bears can't afford to draft one WR, because if they bust then we are still in a huge hole.Not hitting on a pick is more than the GM's fault:

-lack of motivation

-coaching

-injuries

-can't learn/adapt to NFL game

I'd like a link to an example. I find it hard to believe a GM drafts 3 WR in a row so he can hedge his bets.

1999 PackersRound 1- Antwan Edwards=he flopped

Round 2- Fred Vinson= he was traded to seattle after a year or 2 for Ahman Green

Round 3- Mike McKenzie= he obviously worked out really well and by draft position wasn't the guy they thought would work out.

 

[RBM]

What if Chicago went out and signed:

(1 or 2) of Levi Brown OT, Demetrius Bell OT, Jared Gaither OT, Ben Grubbs OG, Scott Wells C

(1) of Courtland Finnegan CB, Brandon Carr CB

(1) Eddie Royal

Resign:

-Kellen Davis TE

-Tim Jennings CB

-Israel Idonijie DE

-Amobi Okeye DT

Draft:

Round 1- Michael Floyd/Kendall Wright

Round 2- Alshon Jeffrey/Tommy Streeter/Juron Criner

Round 3- Jeff Fuller/Ryan Broyles/Brian Quick/Greg Childs

Round 3- Cam Johnson DE

This is affordable. The Bears upgrade at OL/CB. Add a player Cutler likes in Eddie Royal and add 3 young playmaking WRs, also a pass rusher.

Why 3 WR's? Because not all of them will hit, but odds are they all won't bust either. Earl Bennett is the only WR we have, we need at least 3 more if not 4.

If our new GM spent 3 straight picks on WR I think he should be fired on the spot. We have so many holes on this team that we need to start plugging, if he can't have the confidence in his top round picks to hit then he has no business being a GM.

That strategy has been used numerous times in the NFL draft with success. The Bears can't afford to draft one WR, because if they bust then we are still in a huge hole.Not hitting on a pick is more than the GM's fault:

-lack of motivation

-coaching

-injuries

-can't learn/adapt to NFL game

I'd like a link to an example. I find it hard to believe a GM drafts 3 WR in a row so he can hedge his bets.

1999 PackersRound 1- Antwan Edwards=he flopped

Round 2- Fred Vinson= he was traded to seattle after a year or 2 for Ahman Green

Round 3- Mike McKenzie= he obviously worked out really well and by draft position wasn't the guy they thought would work out.

Numerous times?

 

[flapgreen]

There's no way in hell they're drafting 3 wide receivers in a row. Not happening.

Free agency wise, I think our cap space allows us to do a few things.

Possibilities, not necessarily what I think they will do:

-Nicks. Decent LT/2nd mid-range WR. A good backup qb.

-Mario. A decent LT/mid-range WR, and good backup QB. Probably stretching it on this one cap wise. Mario's contract will be huge.

-Jackson/Colston. A decent LT/mid-range WR, and good backup QB

-Carr. Meachem/Wayne. LT/mid-range WR. Good backup QB

Tried to include one big name is each of those scenarios to get an idea of what could fit under the cap. I may be off by a little on what we could afford, but I think that's fairly close. Of course we could not sign any big names and sign more people. I think we need one big difference maker, though, not a bunch of mid-level guys. I'm not even going to try and speculate on the draft any further, because free agency will play a huge part in what we draft.

If Freeney is in the mix, that could change a lot of things too, if they take a look at him. I really wanted Avril. Much cheaper than Mario and an up and coming DE. Detroit thought better of it, though.

 

[flapgreen]

Current free agents on the Bears. Who we re-sign will obviously affect the cap.

RFA

Khalil Bell. Will re-sign

UFA

Roy Will. I sure as hell hope not

Kellen Davis. Will re-sign.

Idonije. Questionable, but probably re-sign

Okoye. Priority #1 on re-signings. Get this guy signed!!!

Corey Graham. Doesn't look likely.

Tim Jennings. Probably re-sign

Zach Bowman. Probably re-sign.

Steltz-who knows

Merriweather-gone

Any other guys we let go of over the course of the offseason will be considered dead cap space, because they will still receive part of their salary, like Omifail and Adams have.

 

[flapgreen]

My newest dream scenario:

-Nicks

-Gaither

-mid-level wr Meachem

-good back up qb

-draft wr in 1st round

I think that's close to what we can spend, maybe slightly over what we can spend, but having an all-pro OG and potential all-pro LT under the age of 26 and on the line for years to come would change everything. Everything!!! If we can get these 2 guys, I wouldn't mind filling in the other pieces elsewhere. An all-around solid OL with Gaither, Carimi and Nicks. Geez that would be awesome for many years. We can fill in the rest as we go along through draft. Awesome. Let's just hope the morons Lovie and Tice will finally admit their wrong with this putrid OL, and the Hester project. If they can do that, everything could completely change.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

What if Chicago went out and signed:

(1 or 2) of Levi Brown OT, Demetrius Bell OT, Jared Gaither OT, Ben Grubbs OG, Scott Wells C

(1) of Courtland Finnegan CB, Brandon Carr CB

(1) Eddie Royal

Resign:

-Kellen Davis TE

-Tim Jennings CB

-Israel Idonijie DE

-Amobi Okeye DT

Draft:

Round 1- Michael Floyd/Kendall Wright

Round 2- Alshon Jeffrey/Tommy Streeter/Juron Criner

Round 3- Jeff Fuller/Ryan Broyles/Brian Quick/Greg Childs

Round 3- Cam Johnson DE

This is affordable. The Bears upgrade at OL/CB. Add a player Cutler likes in Eddie Royal and add 3 young playmaking WRs, also a pass rusher.

Why 3 WR's? Because not all of them will hit, but odds are they all won't bust either. Earl Bennett is the only WR we have, we need at least 3 more if not 4.

If our new GM spent 3 straight picks on WR I think he should be fired on the spot. We have so many holes on this team that we need to start plugging, if he can't have the confidence in his top round picks to hit then he has no business being a GM.

That strategy has been used numerous times in the NFL draft with success. The Bears can't afford to draft one WR, because if they bust then we are still in a huge hole.Not hitting on a pick is more than the GM's fault:

-lack of motivation

-coaching

-injuries

-can't learn/adapt to NFL game

I'd like a link to an example. I find it hard to believe a GM drafts 3 WR in a row so he can hedge his bets.

1999 PackersRound 1- Antwan Edwards=he flopped

Round 2- Fred Vinson= he was traded to seattle after a year or 2 for Ahman Green

Round 3- Mike McKenzie= he obviously worked out really well and by draft position wasn't the guy they thought would work out.

Numerous times?

He wanted an example...I provided one.I don't think it's that hard to understand. The Bears have a huge hole at WR. Devin Hester is a returner and can play WR in small packages. Knox may never play football again. Hurd is in jail. Roy Williams is an UFA and not welcomed back. Earl Bennett is the only WR on the team basically. Therefore obtaining 3 other WR's isn't far fetched.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

My newest dream scenario:-Nicks-Gaither-mid-level wr Meachem-good back up qb-draft wr in 1st roundI think that's close to what we can spend, maybe slightly over what we can spend, but having an all-pro OG and potential all-pro LT under the age of 26 and on the line for years to come would change everything. Everything!!! If we can get these 2 guys, I wouldn't mind filling in the other pieces elsewhere. An all-around solid OL with Gaither, Carimi and Nicks. Geez that would be awesome for many years. We can fill in the rest as we go along through draft. Awesome. Let's just hope the morons Lovie and Tice will finally admit their wrong with this putrid OL, and the Hester project. If they can do that, everything could completely change.

DE/DT/CB???

 

[flapgreen]

DT? That's one of the last things we need. As for CB and DE, we could find them in the draft. We're not going to fill every hole in one offseason. Protect Jay and find him someone to throw to. The defense has holes, but it's still a very good. I'm sure I'll change my mind again soon.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

DT? That's one of the last things we need. As for CB and DE, we could find them in the draft. We're not going to fill every hole in one offseason. Protect Jay and find him someone to throw to. The defense has holes, but it's still a very good. I'm sure I'll change my mind again soon.

If you lose Okeye to pair with Anthony Adams gone then you do have a need at DT. Melton/Paea are the only impact people at the position.

 

[Statcruncher]

-Nicks Jackson

-Gaither

-mid-level wr Meachem

-good back up qb

-draft BPA

 

[flapgreen]

DT? That's one of the last things we need. As for CB and DE, we could find them in the draft. We're not going to fill every hole in one offseason. Protect Jay and find him someone to throw to. The defense has holes, but it's still a very good. I'm sure I'll change my mind again soon.

If you lose Okeye to pair with Anthony Adams gone then you do have a need at DT. Melton/Paea are the only impact people at the position.

I don't think they will let Okoye walk. He was too good last year. I'll bet they sign him within the next week. They didn't plan on letting Adams go and Okoye too, imo.