Chicago Bears 2012 Offseason Thread (1 Viewer)

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

In any case just like who the Vikings have at defensive back does not matter, who you guys line up at left tackle does not matter to Jared Allen either. Good luck Bears fans.

Minnesota vs. Chicago the last 3 years2009 Week 12 - Allen sacked Cutler 2 times / Cutler threw 1 TD

2009 Week 16 - Allen sacked Cutler 0 times / Cutler threw 4 TD's

2010 Week 10 - Allen sacked Cutler 2 times / Cutler threw 3 TD's

2010 Week 15 - Allen sacked Cutler 0 times / Cutler threw 3 TD's

2011 Week 06 - Allen sacked Cutler 1 time / Cutler threw 2 TD's

2011 Week 17 - Allen sacked the 3rd string QB 3.5 times / Cutler was on IR

I was shocked to go back and see that Jared Allen is only averaging a sack a game against Cutler while Cutler is averaging 2.6 TD's per game. No, the Bears did not add a bunch of bodies to their o-line, but I have a feeling the WR's they added will force opposing defenses to respect the passing game. With my homer glasses on it's not hard to envision fewer sacks and more TD's from the Bears offense. We'll see how it all plays out though, player additions and chemistry don't always turn out as expected.

The starting LT that game was Chris Williams

 

[DoubleG]

In any case just like who the Vikings have at defensive back does not matter, who you guys line up at left tackle does not matter to Jared Allen either. Good luck Bears fans.

Minnesota vs. Chicago the last 3 years2009 Week 12 - Allen sacked Cutler 2 times / Cutler threw 1 TD

2009 Week 16 - Allen sacked Cutler 0 times / Cutler threw 4 TD's

2010 Week 10 - Allen sacked Cutler 2 times / Cutler threw 3 TD's

2010 Week 15 - Allen sacked Cutler 0 times / Cutler threw 3 TD's

2011 Week 06 - Allen sacked Cutler 1 time / Cutler threw 2 TD's

2011 Week 17 - Allen sacked the 3rd string QB 3.5 times / Cutler was on IR

I was shocked to go back and see that Jared Allen is only averaging a sack a game against Cutler while Cutler is averaging 2.6 TD's per game. No, the Bears did not add a bunch of bodies to their o-line, but I have a feeling the WR's they added will force opposing defenses to respect the passing game. With my homer glasses on it's not hard to envision fewer sacks and more TD's from the Bears offense. We'll see how it all plays out though, player additions and chemistry don't always turn out as expected.

The starting LT that game was Chris Williams

You're doing it again.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

In any case just like who the Vikings have at defensive back does not matter, who you guys line up at left tackle does not matter to Jared Allen either. Good luck Bears fans.

Minnesota vs. Chicago the last 3 years2009 Week 12 - Allen sacked Cutler 2 times / Cutler threw 1 TD

2009 Week 16 - Allen sacked Cutler 0 times / Cutler threw 4 TD's

2010 Week 10 - Allen sacked Cutler 2 times / Cutler threw 3 TD's

2010 Week 15 - Allen sacked Cutler 0 times / Cutler threw 3 TD's

2011 Week 06 - Allen sacked Cutler 1 time / Cutler threw 2 TD's

2011 Week 17 - Allen sacked the 3rd string QB 3.5 times / Cutler was on IR

I was shocked to go back and see that Jared Allen is only averaging a sack a game against Cutler while Cutler is averaging 2.6 TD's per game. No, the Bears did not add a bunch of bodies to their o-line, but I have a feeling the WR's they added will force opposing defenses to respect the passing game. With my homer glasses on it's not hard to envision fewer sacks and more TD's from the Bears offense. We'll see how it all plays out though, player additions and chemistry don't always turn out as expected.

The starting LT that game was Chris Williams

You're doing it again.

 

[ZWK]

4. Left tackle J’Marcus Webb receives the majority of criticism from the public and he had some weak moments last season. He allowed far too many sacks and negative plays that just crippled the offense at times. But he’s going to be the starter. That is what Lovie Smith consistently has said. It’s what Mike Tice said when he spoke to the Tribune in January during the Senior Bowl. It’s what is clear after no top pick was used on an offensive tackle.

Let’s rewind to those comments from Tice:

“Here is what I saw with him: Second-year player playing one side one year and one side another,” Tice said. “I thought he was adequate. I thought his consistency grade -- how many times does he block his guy – his consistency grade was actually solid. What grade was bad was the critical errors, the sacks, penalties, not really a ton of quarterback hits. When he made a critical error, everyone knew what it was. But, what you look at is the development of a second-year, seventh-round draft pick. Is he a guy we can move forward and win with?

“Well, if you change your drops and you’re not always in the deep drops. If you change your philosophy of making sure the guy gets chip help from a back or a tight end. If you change and move the release point of the quarterback, you’re going to already make him better without making him better. And then you have an entire offseason and now you have a chance to make him better there. So there are two ways I just told you we can get him better in. And then already I think he is a very good run blocker. That is an area that doesn’t get talked about. Do I think he is the guy moving forward? Yes, I do unless some miracle happens and an elite first-round pick that we couldn’t pass up fell in our lap which I doubt. Yeah, he’s our guy moving forward.”

Is the bolded part actually true? I was skeptical, so I looked up some numbers.Pro Football Focus keeps data for offensive linemen on QB sacks, hits, and pressures allowed, as well as snaps and penalties* (the data is behind a paywall, but a summary article is available here). Out of 76 offensive tackles who played a significant number of snaps, Webb was:

5th worst in sacks per play

6th worst in penalties per play

37th worst in QB hits per play

36th worst in QB pressures per play

So I guess it does check out - it's not just Tice making stuff up. Webb was near the bottom of the league at the major screwups (sacks & penalties), but close to average on the minor ones (hits & pressures).

Still, if we look at total screwups per play (sacks + penalties + hits + pressures), Webb was 14th worst, which means that his consistency rate was pretty bad.

* Note on the data: unfortunately the numbers for penalties and snaps are for all plays, not just passing plays, but I don't think that makes much difference in these rankings.

 

[twistd]

Good news, the Bears aren't the worst line in football. They are 29th!

http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/nfl/40484/179/2012-offensive-line-rankings

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Alshon Jeffery is doing all the right things so far

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/05/10/alshon-jeffery-prioritizes-working-out-over-nfl-rookie-premiere/

 

[DoubleG]

Good news, the Bears aren't the worst line in football. They are 29th! http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/nfl/40484/179/2012-offensive-line-rankings

If I had a nickel for eveytime I agreed with something that Evan Silva wrote, I couldn't by a gumball. Just sayin'.Just as an example, Silva projects GB as the #1 line. Really? An o-line that was in the bottom 3rd in sacks allowed and in the bottom 5 in rushing yards per carry - is now miraculously going to jump to #1...after losing 2 starters and adding a 37-year old center??Ummm...no.

 

[3nOut]

Per KFFL:

Bears | Shea McClellin agrees to terms Fri, 11 May 2012 10:06:32 -0700 The Chicago Bears have agreed to terms with first-round draft choice DE Shea McClellin on a four-year deal. Financial terms were not disclosed. The contract does include an option for a fifth year.

 

[jagbag]

Per KFFL:

Bears | Shea McClellin agrees to terms Fri, 11 May 2012 10:06:32 -0700 The Chicago Bears have agreed to terms with first-round draft choice DE Shea McClellin on a four-year deal. Financial terms were not disclosed. The contract does include an option for a fifth year.

Good job on getting the first two picks signed.

 

[mbuehner]

I gotta say there is an air of professionalism coming out of Hallas Hall I think was lacking in years past. Sign your guys, get them in camp, and get going. I like it.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

I was thinking about how tall the Bears starting WRs are now: Brandon Marshall 6-4 230 and Alshon Jeffery 6-3 218. Are they the biggest duo in the league?

Dallas-6'2,6'2

Arizona-6'3, 6'3

ATL- 6'3, 6'0

Buffalo-6'2, 6'5

Cinci-6'4, 6'2

Denver-6'3, 6'3

KC-6'2, 6-4

Seattle-6'5, 6'4

TB-6'5, 6'2

The only duo that's taller is Sidney Rice and Mike Williams. This will be a first in Chicago!

ETA: One of the taller RBs in the NFL in Matt Forte at 6'2 and TE's in Kellen Davis at 6'7

 

[Statcruncher]

Per ESPN

LAKE FOREST, Ill. – Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Mike Tice kept mentioning the "new personality" of the offense Friday during a seven-minute meeting with reporters following the first practice of rookie minicamp at Halas Hall.

The problem, however was Tice didn't elaborate. At first, anyway.

So what exactly is this new personality?

"Just that we want to play fast," Tice explained later. "We don't want to be out on the field and have the kids think[ing] too much. We don't want to make it hard for the kids. We want to make sure the kids know exactly what we're gonna do, when we're gonna call it and why we're gonna call it. That's our job as coaches. We have some great athletes on offense. We have to put them in a position to show us and show the fans, and show the people that love the Bears, their athleticism and explosiveness. We want to be explosive."

That's perfectly fine, but obviously steps need to be taken to accomplish the task. So thus far in an offseason somewhat lacking on a free flow of information from Halas Hall, the Bears have actually installed their 2012 offense not once, but twice.

So basically, the team's progress in terms of offensive installation stands at the halfway point with training camp approaching in July.

"When we go to OTA days, we'll go through [installing the offense] for a third time," Tice said. "When we go to training camp, we'll go through for a fourth time. So we're excited about that process because we're gonna have a large playbook, and we're gonna be able to pull from that and draw from that playbook as the season progresses, and as we find what the talents of our players are."

The Bears walked away from the first day of rookie camp encouraged by the glimpse they caught of rookie second-round receiver Alshon Jeffery, who eventually left the field close to the end of practice after catching leg cramps. Prior to Jeffery leaving, Tice watched the rookie "picking peanuts off some guys' heads," during drills.

Jeffery will play the "Z" receiver spot in the slot. New acquisition Brandon Marshall and veteran Devin Hester will play on the outside, with the latter playing a much more significant role in 2012 than in years past on offense because of the club's plans to creatively deploy him in a variety of places.

One NFL source said the Bears' 2012 passing game will essentially be the 2008 passing offense of the Denver Broncos, a system well known by new quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates, both Marshall and quarterback Jay Cutler, who the source said, "really likes Hester in the new system."

The only real concern -- outside of the health of receiver Johnny Knox -- seems to be the status of franchised-tagged running back Matt Forte, who at this point appears to be poised for a training camp holdout.

"You're talking about taking a bunch of ideas from a bunch of guys (a group that also includes tight ends coach Mike DeBord, Darryl Drake and Tim Spencer) that have a chance to have some input," Tice said about the formation of the new system. "[And we're] filtering through that information and putting it together on paper, and deciding what the Bears are gonna look like based on the talent pool and skills of the players we have. The staff's done a great job from top to bottom."

Bears coach Lovie Smith has taken notice, and pointed out how the acquisition of offensive firepower should aid in the transitioning of the new offense.

"He's been doing a super job, rallying and just organizing our offensive staff and getting them all on the same page," Smith said of Tice. "I think he'll like the look of our offense this year. It helps a lot when you get more weapons, which we've done. I'm really pleased with what the staff has done."

Alshon's not only catching footballs, but cramps.He's also snacking on peanuts during practice, I hope Tillman is not in danger.

Hester is the 3rd starter and it's now the Denver passing attack?

Should be an interesting year.

 

[flapgreen]

Did Tice coach in Denver?

 

[mlball77]

Did Tice coach in Denver?

Don't think so. I believe the QB Coach, Bates, did. I think he and Cutler have a good relationship from their Denver days, IIRC.

 

[DoubleG]

Alshon's not only catching footballs, but cramps.

Dude has great hands - he catches EVERYTHING!

 

[mlball77]

Ugh... not again. Why must the team always look to expand his role? Seems obvious he should have a limited role on offense as a WR3 or WR4 type and then serve as the team's return specialist.

(TheHuddle) Chicago Bears WR Devin Hester is expected to have a more significant role in the offense this season because the team plans to use him in a variety of ways.Analysis: This is the diametric opposite of earlier talk out of Chicago that suggested Hester will be limited to specific packages. The Bears certainly have more talent at wide receiver than in years past, and if Matt Forte holds out they'll be forced to throw more which would likely give Hester a larger role. There's no question Hester is a playmaker with the ball in his hands, but as it stands there doesn't look to be enough of those opportunities in Chicago to significantly expand his fantasy value.

 

[flapgreen]

Lovie will take that to his grave, and the unemployment line.

 

[DoubleG]

Lovie will take that to his grave, and the unemployment line.

This I agree on. It's clear that Hester is a great returner - and that he seemed to regress when asked to also play WR - and that AS a WR he was not very good. You have added legit WR talent and now you want to increase his role?!?

This is horrible logic by the entire coaching staff. Mike Tice needs to say "Nope - we have WRs now", and the special teams coach should show Lovie Hesters stats before and after becoming a "WR". They need to stop with this silliness.

 

[flapgreen]

Lovie will take that to his grave, and the unemployment line.

This I agree on. It's clear that Hester is a great returner - and that he seemed to regress when asked to also play WR - and that AS a WR he was not very good. You have added legit WR talent and now you want to increase his role?!?

This is horrible logic by the entire coaching staff. Mike Tice needs to say "Nope - we have WRs now", and the special teams coach should show Lovie Hesters stats before and after becoming a "WR". They need to stop with this silliness.

Tice is part of the problem, not the solution. At this point, it's all coach speak anyway, so let's hope this is the coaching staff using up precious O2 continuously answering questions and the OL and Hester. If it continues into the season and they try and force Hester in over Jeffery, Tice should be beaten by Metta World Peace.

 

[flapgreen]

Tice: "Devin is going to be on the field. If he’s not on the field, then they should fire me.’’

Don't worry, ticket thief. You will more likely get hammered due to the OL, but I wouldn't count out anything.

 

[KCitons]

I don't know why teams do this. Why would you make a statement about where your rookie talent is going to lineup? Especially a position like WR, RB, FB, or TE. With Jeffrey having only a few days of actual work, I'm not sure why the Bears would want to state that he is going to line up in the slot? Just tell the media, that the Bears will have multiple offensive sets, and every player is going to be able to line up in multiple positions. Heck, tell them Cutler will see some time at Left Tackle. (I had to get a LT jab in with every post) At least we keep teams guessing.

with that said, maybe the Bears statements really are misinformation to keep other teams guessing. In which case, good job. (I think)

 

[Clifford]

Lovie will take that to his grave, and the unemployment line.

Rex is our quarterback

 

[DoubleG]

I don't know why teams do this. Why would you make a statement about where your rookie talent is going to lineup? Especially a position like WR, RB, FB, or TE. With Jeffrey having only a few days of actual work, I'm not sure why the Bears would want to state that he is going to line up in the slot? Just tell the media, that the Bears will have multiple offensive sets, and every player is going to be able to line up in multiple positions. Heck, tell them Cutler will see some time at Left Tackle. (I had to get a LT jab in with every post) At least we keep teams guessing. with that said, maybe the Bears statements really are misinformation to keep other teams guessing. In which case, good job. (I think)

It is sad that we have to hope the Bears brass is just lying and making stuff up to throw off other teams - or they're inept.

 

[flapgreen]

I don't know why teams do this. Why would you make a statement about where your rookie talent is going to lineup? Especially a position like WR, RB, FB, or TE. With Jeffrey having only a few days of actual work, I'm not sure why the Bears would want to state that he is going to line up in the slot? Just tell the media, that the Bears will have multiple offensive sets, and every player is going to be able to line up in multiple positions. Heck, tell them Cutler will see some time at Left Tackle. (I had to get a LT jab in with every post) At least we keep teams guessing. with that said, maybe the Bears statements really are misinformation to keep other teams guessing. In which case, good job. (I think)

It is sad that we have to hope the Bears brass is just lying and making stuff up to throw off other teams - or they're inept.

But the stuff they're making up doesn't even matter to other teams.

 

[mbuehner]

What does this mean for Earl Bennett? I figured theyd line up AJ across from Marshall and play Bennett in the slot just to get their most talent on the field together. Weird, but if AJ plays the slot he'll see more touches- figure about 80-90 targets and 50-60 catches (which is still better than he'd see with Bennett on the field full time). Thats my only problem with his fantasy potential, too many mouths to feed in Chicago all the sudden.

 

[flapgreen]

Daryll Drake

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Daryll Drake

I've met coach Drake and had conversations with coach Drake...he's a great guy. You're going to blame him for the WR issues the past couple of years?

 

[flapgreen]

Daryll Drake

I've met coach Drake and had conversations with coach Drake...he's a great guy. You're going to blame him for the WR issues the past couple of years?

I've never questioned him being a great guy.

 

[flapgreen]

But find me something that shows me WHY he's a good coach, instead of giving me reasons why he wasn't able to succeed. We're all held accountable, at least most of us, for how we perform on our jobs. What single wide receiver has Drake made better? You won't find anything significant. I promise you that. Whether you be like him or not, the guy isn't a very good coach. On an already mediocre staff, he's dead weight. Spin things a thousand different ways, but thep part of the team he is in charge hasn't done well. Simple as that.

 

[flapgreen]

Drake on Devin: "I promise you Devin's not reading press clippings about Alshon Jeffery," Drake said. "Devin Hester don't give a crap. He's gonna go out there and play." "The talent has always been there (for Hester)," Drake said. "It's just a matter of not having him play 70 plays a game and throw to him twice."

 

[DoubleG]

There's one aspect of this whole Hester situation that doesn't make sense (actually several that are all inter-realted):

You went out and added Weems - who is a pro bowl returner in his own right. Some have suggested this was simply to replace Knox in the return game. Could be.

Then the Bears traded for Marhshall, traded up to snag Alshon Jeffry in the draft and added Devin Thomas (who is 6' 2" btw). You also still have Bennet. At best, Hester is the 5th (and shortest) WR on the team.

It almost seems as though the Bears have made Hester tradeable...or at least are well set to move forward without him on the offense. Couple that with his steadily declining receptions and the obvious fact that the two seasons he did have 50+ receptions ('08 & '09) he had ZERO return TDs (of any type).

Something doesn't add up here. Either the Bears are blowing sunshine, hoping to move Hester still or just hoping to keep everyone happy (or motivated?) - or they are clueless and delusional. At the risk of sounding like the old Shanny/Tatum Bell threads, perhaps they are just being careful not to hand the starting job to Jeffrey, who has shown a less-than-stellar work ethic at times?

It just wouldn't make any sense at all to make all the moves at WR that they did - then insist on forcing the ball to an under-sized, underskilled (at WR) guy who is an amazing returner when he's not over-used on offense. Am I missing something?

And please flap - don't just weigh in with the usual "They're just idiots".

 

[KCitons]

There's one aspect of this whole Hester situation that doesn't make sense (actually several that are all inter-realted):You went out and added Weems - who is a pro bowl returner in his own right. Some have suggested this was simply to replace Knox in the return game. Could be.Then the Bears traded for Marhshall, traded up to snag Alshon Jeffry in the draft and added Devin Thomas (who is 6' 2" btw). You also still have Bennet. At best, Hester is the 5th (and shortest) WR on the team.It almost seems as though the Bears have made Hester tradeable...or at least are well set to move forward without him on the offense. Couple that with his steadily declining receptions and the obvious fact that the two seasons he did have 50+ receptions ('08 & '09) he had ZERO return TDs (of any type). Something doesn't add up here. Either the Bears are blowing sunshine, hoping to move Hester still or just hoping to keep everyone happy (or motivated?) - or they are clueless and delusional. At the risk of sounding like the old Shanny/Tatum Bell threads, perhaps they are just being careful not to hand the starting job to Jeffrey, who has shown a less-than-stellar work ethic at times?It just wouldn't make any sense at all to make all the moves at WR that they did - then insist on forcing the ball to an under-sized, underskilled (at WR) guy who is an amazing returner when he's not over-used on offense. Am I missing something? And please flap - don't just weigh in with the usual "They're just idiots".

I think your spot on with everything. The only thing I could add, is the possibility that the Bears are in a state of confusion about the entire WR situation. With so many changes and injuries (Knox), there is no possible way that anyone can predict who is going to do what this season. I'm not going to start complaining about any of the "hot air" that Lovie, Tice, or Drake are blowing around right now. I honestly don't think they know who lines up #2, #3, and #4 on opening day. The only sure thing is, (barring suspension) Brandon Marshall will be the #1 WR for the Chicago Bears on opening day. It's been quite a few years since we have been able to field an obvious #1 WR.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

But find me something that shows me WHY he's a good coach, instead of giving me reasons why he wasn't able to succeed. We're all held accountable, at least most of us, for how we perform on our jobs. What single wide receiver has Drake made better? You won't find anything significant. I promise you that. Whether you be like him or not, the guy isn't a very good coach. On an already mediocre staff, he's dead weight. Spin things a thousand different ways, but thep part of the team he is in charge hasn't done well. Simple as that.

Johnny Knox. 5th round pick developed into an almost 1,000 yard WR...Drake made him better.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

There's one aspect of this whole Hester situation that doesn't make sense (actually several that are all inter-realted):You went out and added Weems - who is a pro bowl returner in his own right. Some have suggested this was simply to replace Knox in the return game. Could be.Then the Bears traded for Marhshall, traded up to snag Alshon Jeffry in the draft and added Devin Thomas (who is 6' 2" btw). You also still have Bennet. At best, Hester is the 5th (and shortest) WR on the team.It almost seems as though the Bears have made Hester tradeable...or at least are well set to move forward without him on the offense. Couple that with his steadily declining receptions and the obvious fact that the two seasons he did have 50+ receptions ('08 & '09) he had ZERO return TDs (of any type). Something doesn't add up here. Either the Bears are blowing sunshine, hoping to move Hester still or just hoping to keep everyone happy (or motivated?) - or they are clueless and delusional. At the risk of sounding like the old Shanny/Tatum Bell threads, perhaps they are just being careful not to hand the starting job to Jeffrey, who has shown a less-than-stellar work ethic at times?It just wouldn't make any sense at all to make all the moves at WR that they did - then insist on forcing the ball to an under-sized, underskilled (at WR) guy who is an amazing returner when he's not over-used on offense. Am I missing something? And please flap - don't just weigh in with the usual "They're just idiots".

With Knox probably not playing next year, Hester is the only speed WR. So having him involved makes sense opposite our new taller WRs. To what extent...we don't know. Lets also not discount that Hester could be a #2 or #3 WR. He proved he isn't a #1...but Chicago's never had a #1 since...Marty Booker or Marcus Robinson.Perhaps they envision Marshall getting the most targets/attention from defenses. Bennett/Jeffery in the slot being possession guys(Jeffery does a nice job working the middle of the field with his large frame) and working the seams. Hester on the outside running deep patterns with possible one on one matchups.The one area of the field that this doesn't make sense is in the redzone because Jeffery is very good at fade routes/jump balls.

 

[mbuehner]

Hester could potentially be an average #2 or #3 receiver. Or he can definitely be a 1st ballot Hall of Fame return man. But he can't be both. So which one is harder to acquire? Which one does more for your team? It wouldn't take much research to prove Hester has contributed more to the Bears field position over the average returner than he has on offense over the average WR (which may be negative to date)- by a lot. Opponents spend big chunks of time figuring out how to keep the ball out of his hands in the return game, I guarantee nobody has sleepless nights worrying about how to stop him lined up on offense. A returner is like a race horse, you cant be out burning up his legs outside of the big race.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Hester could potentially be an average #2 or #3 receiver. Or he can definitely be a 1st ballot Hall of Fame return man. But he can't be both. So which one is harder to acquire? Which one does more for your team? It wouldn't take much research to prove Hester has contributed more to the Bears field position over the average returner than he has on offense over the average WR (which may be negative to date)- by a lot. Opponents spend big chunks of time figuring out how to keep the ball out of his hands in the return game, I guarantee nobody has sleepless nights worrying about how to stop him lined up on offense. A returner is like a race horse, you cant be out burning up his legs outside of the big race.

I agree, but he should be on offense for some select packages. Hester is very effective on screen plays/bubbles/deep shots down the field. Have him in for those plays and being a decoy 20-30 plays a game and then return.In another regard, Hester is probably the best returner ever...but Dave Toub can make almost any returner look solid to good as well. Bears that have return TDs under Dave Toub: Devin Hester, Johnny Knox, Earl Bennett, Daniel Manning

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

(Rotoworld) ESPN's Adam Schefter reports police have "struggled to find evidence against" Brandon Marshall in the March melee he was involved in at a New York night club, and that it's "likely there will be no charges."

Analysis: Marshall allegedly "slugged" a woman during the fight, but has strongly maintained his innocence. He said in March he had "no fear at all" of being suspended for his role in the incident. New York police are expected to wrap up their investigation this week.

 

[RBM]

Regarding the Hester stuff...its clear that with the top three receivers being Marshall, Bennett, and Jeffrey, we would be lacking in deep speed. I really think thats the only reason he is needed at wr.

Its unfortunate we couldnt bring in someone with that speed who is a capable receiver but it was not in the cards.

 

[steelcitysledgehammers]

Hester's still being called a starter cause he's the only other WR on the team making "starter" money. The starting job is basically his to lose. He'll start the season and if he fails to perform, we'll start seeing more of Bennett, Jeffery or Thomas (I'm also not ruling out Knox).

Personally, I want to see Hester as a compliment to our offense. While I agree he's no #1 WR, that has been the position he's been playing for us the past three seasons. Believe it or not, he's been the one drawing the most attention from the opposing defenses and I believe this is why he's been such a disappointment. Now that we've got Marshall lining up opposite Hester, defenses won't be able to focus on him as much and he could be very productive. He could also continue to fall flat on his face as a receiver.

I guess my point is, don't get too bent out of shape because Hester is being touted as the starter. He'll only remain such for as long as he's productive.

Go Bears!

J

 

[Statcruncher]

Signs pointing back to tackle for Bears' Williams

By Brad Biggs, Tribune reporter 12:11 p.m. CDT, May 14, 2012

The Chicago Bears have not made it official with Chris Williams, but barring a new development it appears likely the former first-round draft pick is headed back to tackle.

Williams has spent time at both guard and tackle in the voluntary offseason workout program, according to one teammate, and the composition of the roster makes it clear he’s needed on the outside. The Bears waived unproven tackle Levi Horn on Monday, eliminating another emergency option at the position. Horn spent the last two seasons on the practice squad.

It would appear general manager Phil Emery and the coaching staff have no other option but to play Williams at tackle. The club has plenty of depth on the interior, especially since the addition of Chilo Rachal in free agency last month. When asked about it during the draft weekend, coach Lovie Smith wouldn’t commit to a position for Williams.

Chris Spencer, Lance Louis, Rachal and Edwin Williams all have experience playing guard and that mix provides the team with competition to sort through during training camp and preseason. At tackle, offensive coordinator Mike Tice has J’Marcus Webb and Gabe Carimi, the first-round draft pick from last year that the team hopes will be back before minicamp next month. Carimi is still working his way back from surgery on his right knee during the final week of December.

So, healthy bodies right now at tackle -- if you don’t include Williams -- are Webb and undrafted college free agents A.J. Greene of Auburn and Tyler Hendrickson of Concordia. The club lists Troy’s James Brown, another undrafted free agent, at both guard and tackle on the roster. He did a little of both during rookie minicamp. Greene declined an invite to the NFL Scouting Combine in February and also passed on a pro day workout at his school in March because he wanted to start a music career. He since has changed his mind. Hendrickson was a Division II All-American at the school in St. Paul, Minn. That’s a long way from the NFL.

That means Williams is needed at tackle for a number of reasons. First, the Bears have expressed total confidence that Carimi will be back to full strength soon and be the emerging young talent he was last year. But he’s played only 1 1/2 games in the league and it’s impossible to say where he’s at until the pads are on and the action is live. Second, the club needs to push Webb. Tice and Smith have said they believe in Webb, but that doesn’t mean he’s in a position of being able to enter training camp as the undisputed starter. He struggled too much at times last season. Switching Williams back to tackle would allow him to compete for the left tackle job he once had and provide insurance for Carimi. There really isn’t another option unless they suddenly fill the final spot on the 90-man roster with an experienced tackle.

It’s worth wondering if Tice truly would consider Williams as a starter at left tackle. Williams started there for the first two games in 2010 before suffering a hamstring injury. When he returned, he was inserted at left guard in what seemed to be a permanent move. Williams has started 20 career games at left guard, more than anywhere else on the line. He has 11 starts at right tackle and seven at left tackle. The club’s top pick from 2008 -- 14th overall -- is entering the final year of his contract.

The only other option for the Bears could be to consider Louis at tackle again. He started 11 games at right tackle last season but Williams has been the one taking some time at tackle so far, and remember, the club is certain Carimi will be the top talent he was viewed to be a year ago soon.

The upside is Williams must realize there is a lot at stake for him entering this season. He missed seven games last season after the freak wrist injury. He should be at the top of his game and the Bears didn’t have anyone to push the tackles last year with Frank Omiyale as the third option. It will be interesting to see how Tice has the line organized when OTA’s begin next week at Halas Hall.

bmbiggs@tribune.com

Twitter @BradBiggs

 

[Statcruncher]

I agree, but he should be on offense for some select packages. Hester is very effective on screen plays/bubbles/deep shots down the field. Have him in for those plays and being a decoy 20-30 plays a game and then return.

 

[RBM]

Signs pointing back to tackle for Bears' Williams

By Brad Biggs, Tribune reporter 12:11 p.m. CDT, May 14, 2012

The Chicago Bears have not made it official with Chris Williams, but barring a new development it appears likely the former first-round draft pick is headed back to tackle.

Williams has spent time at both guard and tackle in the voluntary offseason workout program, according to one teammate, and the composition of the roster makes it clear he’s needed on the outside. The Bears waived unproven tackle Levi Horn on Monday, eliminating another emergency option at the position. Horn spent the last two seasons on the practice squad.

It would appear general manager Phil Emery and the coaching staff have no other option but to play Williams at tackle. The club has plenty of depth on the interior, especially since the addition of Chilo Rachal in free agency last month. When asked about it during the draft weekend, coach Lovie Smith wouldn’t commit to a position for Williams.

Chris Spencer, Lance Louis, Rachal and Edwin Williams all have experience playing guard and that mix provides the team with competition to sort through during training camp and preseason. At tackle, offensive coordinator Mike Tice has J’Marcus Webb and Gabe Carimi, the first-round draft pick from last year that the team hopes will be back before minicamp next month. Carimi is still working his way back from surgery on his right knee during the final week of December.

So, healthy bodies right now at tackle -- if you don’t include Williams -- are Webb and undrafted college free agents A.J. Greene of Auburn and Tyler Hendrickson of Concordia. The club lists Troy’s James Brown, another undrafted free agent, at both guard and tackle on the roster. He did a little of both during rookie minicamp. Greene declined an invite to the NFL Scouting Combine in February and also passed on a pro day workout at his school in March because he wanted to start a music career. He since has changed his mind. Hendrickson was a Division II All-American at the school in St. Paul, Minn. That’s a long way from the NFL.

That means Williams is needed at tackle for a number of reasons. First, the Bears have expressed total confidence that Carimi will be back to full strength soon and be the emerging young talent he was last year. But he’s played only 1 1/2 games in the league and it’s impossible to say where he’s at until the pads are on and the action is live. Second, the club needs to push Webb. Tice and Smith have said they believe in Webb, but that doesn’t mean he’s in a position of being able to enter training camp as the undisputed starter. He struggled too much at times last season. Switching Williams back to tackle would allow him to compete for the left tackle job he once had and provide insurance for Carimi. There really isn’t another option unless they suddenly fill the final spot on the 90-man roster with an experienced tackle.

It’s worth wondering if Tice truly would consider Williams as a starter at left tackle. Williams started there for the first two games in 2010 before suffering a hamstring injury. When he returned, he was inserted at left guard in what seemed to be a permanent move. Williams has started 20 career games at left guard, more than anywhere else on the line. He has 11 starts at right tackle and seven at left tackle. The club’s top pick from 2008 -- 14th overall -- is entering the final year of his contract.

The only other option for the Bears could be to consider Louis at tackle again. He started 11 games at right tackle last season but Williams has been the one taking some time at tackle so far, and remember, the club is certain Carimi will be the top talent he was viewed to be a year ago soon.

The upside is Williams must realize there is a lot at stake for him entering this season. He missed seven games last season after the freak wrist injury. He should be at the top of his game and the Bears didn’t have anyone to push the tackles last year with Frank Omiyale as the third option. It will be interesting to see how Tice has the line organized when OTA’s begin next week at Halas Hall.

bmbiggs@tribune.com

Twitter @BradBiggs

This would be tremendous for us. I started the offseason talking about it and have not given up.

 

[twistd]

But find me something that shows me WHY he's a good coach, instead of giving me reasons why he wasn't able to succeed. We're all held accountable, at least most of us, for how we perform on our jobs. What single wide receiver has Drake made better? You won't find anything significant. I promise you that. Whether you be like him or not, the guy isn't a very good coach. On an already mediocre staff, he's dead weight. Spin things a thousand different ways, but thep part of the team he is in charge hasn't done well. Simple as that.

Johnny Knox. 5th round pick developed into an almost 1,000 yard WR...Drake made him better.

I think Flap has a point. Knox is a decent receiver, but the Bears have not had a 1000 yard receiver since 2002. If you are a receiver coach, and year after year your group is mediocre, at some point you have to take some responsibility for it. We have to hope that he can do a better job with this group of receivers. This certainly seems to be the best core of talent that the Bears have had in many years. If they struggle now he needs to be fired.

 

[twistd]

Signs pointing back to tackle for Bears' Williams

By Brad Biggs, Tribune reporter 12:11 p.m. CDT, May 14, 2012

The Chicago Bears have not made it official with Chris Williams, but barring a new development it appears likely the former first-round draft pick is headed back to tackle.

Williams has spent time at both guard and tackle in the voluntary offseason workout program, according to one teammate, and the composition of the roster makes it clear he’s needed on the outside. The Bears waived unproven tackle Levi Horn on Monday, eliminating another emergency option at the position. Horn spent the last two seasons on the practice squad.

It would appear general manager Phil Emery and the coaching staff have no other option but to play Williams at tackle. The club has plenty of depth on the interior, especially since the addition of Chilo Rachal in free agency last month. When asked about it during the draft weekend, coach Lovie Smith wouldn’t commit to a position for Williams.

Chris Spencer, Lance Louis, Rachal and Edwin Williams all have experience playing guard and that mix provides the team with competition to sort through during training camp and preseason. At tackle, offensive coordinator Mike Tice has J’Marcus Webb and Gabe Carimi, the first-round draft pick from last year that the team hopes will be back before minicamp next month. Carimi is still working his way back from surgery on his right knee during the final week of December.

So, healthy bodies right now at tackle -- if you don’t include Williams -- are Webb and undrafted college free agents A.J. Greene of Auburn and Tyler Hendrickson of Concordia. The club lists Troy’s James Brown, another undrafted free agent, at both guard and tackle on the roster. He did a little of both during rookie minicamp. Greene declined an invite to the NFL Scouting Combine in February and also passed on a pro day workout at his school in March because he wanted to start a music career. He since has changed his mind. Hendrickson was a Division II All-American at the school in St. Paul, Minn. That’s a long way from the NFL.

That means Williams is needed at tackle for a number of reasons. First, the Bears have expressed total confidence that Carimi will be back to full strength soon and be the emerging young talent he was last year. But he’s played only 1 1/2 games in the league and it’s impossible to say where he’s at until the pads are on and the action is live. Second, the club needs to push Webb. Tice and Smith have said they believe in Webb, but that doesn’t mean he’s in a position of being able to enter training camp as the undisputed starter. He struggled too much at times last season. Switching Williams back to tackle would allow him to compete for the left tackle job he once had and provide insurance for Carimi. There really isn’t another option unless they suddenly fill the final spot on the 90-man roster with an experienced tackle.

It’s worth wondering if Tice truly would consider Williams as a starter at left tackle. Williams started there for the first two games in 2010 before suffering a hamstring injury. When he returned, he was inserted at left guard in what seemed to be a permanent move. Williams has started 20 career games at left guard, more than anywhere else on the line. He has 11 starts at right tackle and seven at left tackle. The club’s top pick from 2008 -- 14th overall -- is entering the final year of his contract.

The only other option for the Bears could be to consider Louis at tackle again. He started 11 games at right tackle last season but Williams has been the one taking some time at tackle so far, and remember, the club is certain Carimi will be the top talent he was viewed to be a year ago soon.

The upside is Williams must realize there is a lot at stake for him entering this season. He missed seven games last season after the freak wrist injury. He should be at the top of his game and the Bears didn’t have anyone to push the tackles last year with Frank Omiyale as the third option. It will be interesting to see how Tice has the line organized when OTA’s begin next week at Halas Hall.

bmbiggs@tribune.com

Twitter @BradBiggs

This would be tremendous for us. I started the offseason talking about it and have not given up.

Fact is, I would really like it if I went in to my garage tomorrow morning and my Accord had turned in to a Ferrari. But I think that it is highly unlikely that will occur. Chris Williams was piss poor as a tackle. He had been a below average guard. I think it is wishful thinking to imagine that he will suddenly be transformed in to a solid tackle when he has shown no sign of that to this point. Actually guard should be easier for him to play than tackle, and he was weak at that position. I think the Bears are delusional about this.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

But find me something that shows me WHY he's a good coach, instead of giving me reasons why he wasn't able to succeed. We're all held accountable, at least most of us, for how we perform on our jobs. What single wide receiver has Drake made better? You won't find anything significant. I promise you that. Whether you be like him or not, the guy isn't a very good coach. On an already mediocre staff, he's dead weight. Spin things a thousand different ways, but thep part of the team he is in charge hasn't done well. Simple as that.

Johnny Knox. 5th round pick developed into an almost 1,000 yard WR...Drake made him better.

I think Flap has a point. Knox is a decent receiver, but the Bears have not had a 1000 yard receiver since 2002. If you are a receiver coach, and year after year your group is mediocre, at some point you have to take some responsibility for it. We have to hope that he can do a better job with this group of receivers. This certainly seems to be the best core of talent that the Bears have had in many years. If they struggle now he needs to be fired.

Chicago hasn't had a Good QB and a #1 WR since...Kramer to Conway??? I don't think it's fair to throw the builder under the bus when he has to use rotten wood to build a home.If after this year all the WRs are terrible...then yes it's Drake's fault.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Signs pointing back to tackle for Bears' Williams

By Brad Biggs, Tribune reporter 12:11 p.m. CDT, May 14, 2012

The Chicago Bears have not made it official with Chris Williams, but barring a new development it appears likely the former first-round draft pick is headed back to tackle.

Williams has spent time at both guard and tackle in the voluntary offseason workout program, according to one teammate, and the composition of the roster makes it clear he’s needed on the outside. The Bears waived unproven tackle Levi Horn on Monday, eliminating another emergency option at the position. Horn spent the last two seasons on the practice squad.

It would appear general manager Phil Emery and the coaching staff have no other option but to play Williams at tackle. The club has plenty of depth on the interior, especially since the addition of Chilo Rachal in free agency last month. When asked about it during the draft weekend, coach Lovie Smith wouldn’t commit to a position for Williams.

Chris Spencer, Lance Louis, Rachal and Edwin Williams all have experience playing guard and that mix provides the team with competition to sort through during training camp and preseason. At tackle, offensive coordinator Mike Tice has J’Marcus Webb and Gabe Carimi, the first-round draft pick from last year that the team hopes will be back before minicamp next month. Carimi is still working his way back from surgery on his right knee during the final week of December.

So, healthy bodies right now at tackle -- if you don’t include Williams -- are Webb and undrafted college free agents A.J. Greene of Auburn and Tyler Hendrickson of Concordia. The club lists Troy’s James Brown, another undrafted free agent, at both guard and tackle on the roster. He did a little of both during rookie minicamp. Greene declined an invite to the NFL Scouting Combine in February and also passed on a pro day workout at his school in March because he wanted to start a music career. He since has changed his mind. Hendrickson was a Division II All-American at the school in St. Paul, Minn. That’s a long way from the NFL.

That means Williams is needed at tackle for a number of reasons. First, the Bears have expressed total confidence that Carimi will be back to full strength soon and be the emerging young talent he was last year. But he’s played only 1 1/2 games in the league and it’s impossible to say where he’s at until the pads are on and the action is live. Second, the club needs to push Webb. Tice and Smith have said they believe in Webb, but that doesn’t mean he’s in a position of being able to enter training camp as the undisputed starter. He struggled too much at times last season. Switching Williams back to tackle would allow him to compete for the left tackle job he once had and provide insurance for Carimi. There really isn’t another option unless they suddenly fill the final spot on the 90-man roster with an experienced tackle.

It’s worth wondering if Tice truly would consider Williams as a starter at left tackle. Williams started there for the first two games in 2010 before suffering a hamstring injury. When he returned, he was inserted at left guard in what seemed to be a permanent move. Williams has started 20 career games at left guard, more than anywhere else on the line. He has 11 starts at right tackle and seven at left tackle. The club’s top pick from 2008 -- 14th overall -- is entering the final year of his contract.

The only other option for the Bears could be to consider Louis at tackle again. He started 11 games at right tackle last season but Williams has been the one taking some time at tackle so far, and remember, the club is certain Carimi will be the top talent he was viewed to be a year ago soon.

The upside is Williams must realize there is a lot at stake for him entering this season. He missed seven games last season after the freak wrist injury. He should be at the top of his game and the Bears didn’t have anyone to push the tackles last year with Frank Omiyale as the third option. It will be interesting to see how Tice has the line organized when OTA’s begin next week at Halas Hall.

bmbiggs@tribune.com

Twitter @BradBiggs

This would be tremendous for us. I started the offseason talking about it and have not given up.

Fact is, I would really like it if I went in to my garage tomorrow morning and my Accord had turned in to a Ferrari. But I think that it is highly unlikely that will occur. Chris Williams was piss poor as a tackle. He had been a below average guard. I think it is wishful thinking to imagine that he will suddenly be transformed in to a solid tackle when he has shown no sign of that to this point. Actually guard should be easier for him to play than tackle, and he was weak at that position. I think the Bears are delusional about this.

Chris Williams is the most athletic OT on our roster. So he has potential as a LT.

 

[mbuehner]

Signs pointing back to tackle for Bears' Williams

By Brad Biggs, Tribune reporter 12:11 p.m. CDT, May 14, 2012

The Chicago Bears have not made it official with Chris Williams, but barring a new development it appears likely the former first-round draft pick is headed back to tackle.

Williams has spent time at both guard and tackle in the voluntary offseason workout program, according to one teammate, and the composition of the roster makes it clear he’s needed on the outside. The Bears waived unproven tackle Levi Horn on Monday, eliminating another emergency option at the position. Horn spent the last two seasons on the practice squad.

It would appear general manager Phil Emery and the coaching staff have no other option but to play Williams at tackle. The club has plenty of depth on the interior, especially since the addition of Chilo Rachal in free agency last month. When asked about it during the draft weekend, coach Lovie Smith wouldn’t commit to a position for Williams.

Chris Spencer, Lance Louis, Rachal and Edwin Williams all have experience playing guard and that mix provides the team with competition to sort through during training camp and preseason. At tackle, offensive coordinator Mike Tice has J’Marcus Webb and Gabe Carimi, the first-round draft pick from last year that the team hopes will be back before minicamp next month. Carimi is still working his way back from surgery on his right knee during the final week of December.

So, healthy bodies right now at tackle -- if you don’t include Williams -- are Webb and undrafted college free agents A.J. Greene of Auburn and Tyler Hendrickson of Concordia. The club lists Troy’s James Brown, another undrafted free agent, at both guard and tackle on the roster. He did a little of both during rookie minicamp. Greene declined an invite to the NFL Scouting Combine in February and also passed on a pro day workout at his school in March because he wanted to start a music career. He since has changed his mind. Hendrickson was a Division II All-American at the school in St. Paul, Minn. That’s a long way from the NFL.

That means Williams is needed at tackle for a number of reasons. First, the Bears have expressed total confidence that Carimi will be back to full strength soon and be the emerging young talent he was last year. But he’s played only 1 1/2 games in the league and it’s impossible to say where he’s at until the pads are on and the action is live. Second, the club needs to push Webb. Tice and Smith have said they believe in Webb, but that doesn’t mean he’s in a position of being able to enter training camp as the undisputed starter. He struggled too much at times last season. Switching Williams back to tackle would allow him to compete for the left tackle job he once had and provide insurance for Carimi. There really isn’t another option unless they suddenly fill the final spot on the 90-man roster with an experienced tackle.

It’s worth wondering if Tice truly would consider Williams as a starter at left tackle. Williams started there for the first two games in 2010 before suffering a hamstring injury. When he returned, he was inserted at left guard in what seemed to be a permanent move. Williams has started 20 career games at left guard, more than anywhere else on the line. He has 11 starts at right tackle and seven at left tackle. The club’s top pick from 2008 -- 14th overall -- is entering the final year of his contract.

The only other option for the Bears could be to consider Louis at tackle again. He started 11 games at right tackle last season but Williams has been the one taking some time at tackle so far, and remember, the club is certain Carimi will be the top talent he was viewed to be a year ago soon.

The upside is Williams must realize there is a lot at stake for him entering this season. He missed seven games last season after the freak wrist injury. He should be at the top of his game and the Bears didn’t have anyone to push the tackles last year with Frank Omiyale as the third option. It will be interesting to see how Tice has the line organized when OTA’s begin next week at Halas Hall.

bmbiggs@tribune.com

Twitter @BradBiggs

This would be tremendous for us. I started the offseason talking about it and have not given up.

Fact is, I would really like it if I went in to my garage tomorrow morning and my Accord had turned in to a Ferrari. But I think that it is highly unlikely that will occur. Chris Williams was piss poor as a tackle. He had been a below average guard. I think it is wishful thinking to imagine that he will suddenly be transformed in to a solid tackle when he has shown no sign of that to this point. Actually guard should be easier for him to play than tackle, and he was weak at that position. I think the Bears are delusional about this.

Chris Williams is the most athletic OT on our roster. So he has potential as a LT.

That is true. Not encouraging, just true.I'll be impressed if William's stays off IR, his back doesnt care what the coaches think.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Signs pointing back to tackle for Bears' Williams

By Brad Biggs, Tribune reporter 12:11 p.m. CDT, May 14, 2012

The Chicago Bears have not made it official with Chris Williams, but barring a new development it appears likely the former first-round draft pick is headed back to tackle.

Williams has spent time at both guard and tackle in the voluntary offseason workout program, according to one teammate, and the composition of the roster makes it clear he’s needed on the outside. The Bears waived unproven tackle Levi Horn on Monday, eliminating another emergency option at the position. Horn spent the last two seasons on the practice squad.

It would appear general manager Phil Emery and the coaching staff have no other option but to play Williams at tackle. The club has plenty of depth on the interior, especially since the addition of Chilo Rachal in free agency last month. When asked about it during the draft weekend, coach Lovie Smith wouldn’t commit to a position for Williams.

Chris Spencer, Lance Louis, Rachal and Edwin Williams all have experience playing guard and that mix provides the team with competition to sort through during training camp and preseason. At tackle, offensive coordinator Mike Tice has J’Marcus Webb and Gabe Carimi, the first-round draft pick from last year that the team hopes will be back before minicamp next month. Carimi is still working his way back from surgery on his right knee during the final week of December.

So, healthy bodies right now at tackle -- if you don’t include Williams -- are Webb and undrafted college free agents A.J. Greene of Auburn and Tyler Hendrickson of Concordia. The club lists Troy’s James Brown, another undrafted free agent, at both guard and tackle on the roster. He did a little of both during rookie minicamp. Greene declined an invite to the NFL Scouting Combine in February and also passed on a pro day workout at his school in March because he wanted to start a music career. He since has changed his mind. Hendrickson was a Division II All-American at the school in St. Paul, Minn. That’s a long way from the NFL.

That means Williams is needed at tackle for a number of reasons. First, the Bears have expressed total confidence that Carimi will be back to full strength soon and be the emerging young talent he was last year. But he’s played only 1 1/2 games in the league and it’s impossible to say where he’s at until the pads are on and the action is live. Second, the club needs to push Webb. Tice and Smith have said they believe in Webb, but that doesn’t mean he’s in a position of being able to enter training camp as the undisputed starter. He struggled too much at times last season. Switching Williams back to tackle would allow him to compete for the left tackle job he once had and provide insurance for Carimi. There really isn’t another option unless they suddenly fill the final spot on the 90-man roster with an experienced tackle.

It’s worth wondering if Tice truly would consider Williams as a starter at left tackle. Williams started there for the first two games in 2010 before suffering a hamstring injury. When he returned, he was inserted at left guard in what seemed to be a permanent move. Williams has started 20 career games at left guard, more than anywhere else on the line. He has 11 starts at right tackle and seven at left tackle. The club’s top pick from 2008 -- 14th overall -- is entering the final year of his contract.

The only other option for the Bears could be to consider Louis at tackle again. He started 11 games at right tackle last season but Williams has been the one taking some time at tackle so far, and remember, the club is certain Carimi will be the top talent he was viewed to be a year ago soon.

The upside is Williams must realize there is a lot at stake for him entering this season. He missed seven games last season after the freak wrist injury. He should be at the top of his game and the Bears didn’t have anyone to push the tackles last year with Frank Omiyale as the third option. It will be interesting to see how Tice has the line organized when OTA’s begin next week at Halas Hall.

bmbiggs@tribune.com

Twitter @BradBiggs

This would be tremendous for us. I started the offseason talking about it and have not given up.

Fact is, I would really like it if I went in to my garage tomorrow morning and my Accord had turned in to a Ferrari. But I think that it is highly unlikely that will occur. Chris Williams was piss poor as a tackle. He had been a below average guard. I think it is wishful thinking to imagine that he will suddenly be transformed in to a solid tackle when he has shown no sign of that to this point. Actually guard should be easier for him to play than tackle, and he was weak at that position. I think the Bears are delusional about this.

Chris Williams is the most athletic OT on our roster. So he has potential as a LT.

That is true. Not encouraging, just true.I'll be impressed if William's stays off IR, his back doesnt care what the coaches think.

All I could think of when I read your comment was Bill Murray and Baby steps

 

[flapgreen]

I don't think Cutler got the memo from a couple of you guys about being patient and letting the OL mature. Maybe tweeting him a link to this thread would ease his concerns a little...http://blogs.suntimes.com/bears/2012/05/jay_cutler_on_bears_o-line_the.html

Jay Cutler on Bears o-line: "There are some questions marks there"By Sean Jensen on May 14, 2012 4:40 PM | 1 Comment | No TrackBacksBears quarterback Jay Cutler is thrilled about the additions to the offense this offseason, But count him among those who has a wait and see approach with the offensive line.Asked about the excitement about the Bears heading into 2012, Cutler said, "You know, the offensive line is definitely going to be a concern and seeing where those guys are going to fit in and seeing what five we go with."If Gabe [Carimi] comes back, if J'Marcus [Webb] pans out. Where are we going to put Chris Williams? There are some question marks there. Until we really get that resolved, and get our front five settled in, we've got some work to do on offense."He was then asked if the new offense would help the offensive line."It helps some. But it's not a cure all, by any means," Cutler said. "They're still going to be asked to protect. There are going to be times it's 3rd and 8, 3rd and 10, and we're going to have to take seven step drops and we're going to have the longer route and they're going to have to protect."It's definitely going to help them, moving the pocket, getting rid of the ball quick. They're not going to be under the stress - game in and game out - they were last year. But on the flip side of that, there are going to be times they've got to do their jobs."

 

[flapgreen]

Signs pointing back to tackle for Bears' Williams

By Brad Biggs, Tribune reporter 12:11 p.m. CDT, May 14, 2012

The Chicago Bears have not made it official with Chris Williams, but barring a new development it appears likely the former first-round draft pick is headed back to tackle.

Williams has spent time at both guard and tackle in the voluntary offseason workout program, according to one teammate, and the composition of the roster makes it clear he’s needed on the outside. The Bears waived unproven tackle Levi Horn on Monday, eliminating another emergency option at the position. Horn spent the last two seasons on the practice squad.

It would appear general manager Phil Emery and the coaching staff have no other option but to play Williams at tackle. The club has plenty of depth on the interior, especially since the addition of Chilo Rachal in free agency last month. When asked about it during the draft weekend, coach Lovie Smith wouldn’t commit to a position for Williams.

Chris Spencer, Lance Louis, Rachal and Edwin Williams all have experience playing guard and that mix provides the team with competition to sort through during training camp and preseason. At tackle, offensive coordinator Mike Tice has J’Marcus Webb and Gabe Carimi, the first-round draft pick from last year that the team hopes will be back before minicamp next month. Carimi is still working his way back from surgery on his right knee during the final week of December.

So, healthy bodies right now at tackle -- if you don’t include Williams -- are Webb and undrafted college free agents A.J. Greene of Auburn and Tyler Hendrickson of Concordia. The club lists Troy’s James Brown, another undrafted free agent, at both guard and tackle on the roster. He did a little of both during rookie minicamp. Greene declined an invite to the NFL Scouting Combine in February and also passed on a pro day workout at his school in March because he wanted to start a music career. He since has changed his mind. Hendrickson was a Division II All-American at the school in St. Paul, Minn. That’s a long way from the NFL.

That means Williams is needed at tackle for a number of reasons. First, the Bears have expressed total confidence that Carimi will be back to full strength soon and be the emerging young talent he was last year. But he’s played only 1 1/2 games in the league and it’s impossible to say where he’s at until the pads are on and the action is live. Second, the club needs to push Webb. Tice and Smith have said they believe in Webb, but that doesn’t mean he’s in a position of being able to enter training camp as the undisputed starter. He struggled too much at times last season. Switching Williams back to tackle would allow him to compete for the left tackle job he once had and provide insurance for Carimi. There really isn’t another option unless they suddenly fill the final spot on the 90-man roster with an experienced tackle.

It’s worth wondering if Tice truly would consider Williams as a starter at left tackle. Williams started there for the first two games in 2010 before suffering a hamstring injury. When he returned, he was inserted at left guard in what seemed to be a permanent move. Williams has started 20 career games at left guard, more than anywhere else on the line. He has 11 starts at right tackle and seven at left tackle. The club’s top pick from 2008 -- 14th overall -- is entering the final year of his contract.

The only other option for the Bears could be to consider Louis at tackle again. He started 11 games at right tackle last season but Williams has been the one taking some time at tackle so far, and remember, the club is certain Carimi will be the top talent he was viewed to be a year ago soon.

The upside is Williams must realize there is a lot at stake for him entering this season. He missed seven games last season after the freak wrist injury. He should be at the top of his game and the Bears didn’t have anyone to push the tackles last year with Frank Omiyale as the third option. It will be interesting to see how Tice has the line organized when OTA’s begin next week at Halas Hall.

bmbiggs@tribune.com

Twitter @BradBiggs

This would be tremendous for us. I started the offseason talking about it and have not given up.

Fact is, I would really like it if I went in to my garage tomorrow morning and my Accord had turned in to a Ferrari. But I think that it is highly unlikely that will occur. Chris Williams was piss poor as a tackle. He had been a below average guard. I think it is wishful thinking to imagine that he will suddenly be transformed in to a solid tackle when he has shown no sign of that to this point. Actually guard should be easier for him to play than tackle, and he was weak at that position. I think the Bears are delusional about this.

Chris Williams is the most athletic OT on our roster. So he has potential as a LT.

That doesn't mean he has much potential.