Bears Blitz

Published by Brian Marchetti on April 8, 2011
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears

Despite making an appearance in the 2010 NFC Championship game, the Chicago Bears suffer from a number of deficiencies on both sides of the ball.

The defense could benefit from some help in the secondary.  The linebackers are aging but remain effective.  Overall, the defense played extremely well in 2010.

The most glaring issues stem from the offense.  Second rate wide receivers along with a largely ineffective offensive line may make the successes of the 2010 campaign seem like ancient history at the conclusion of 2011.  That is, if there is a season in 2011.

For the first time in two years, the Chicago Bears have a first-round draft pick.  It’s the 29th pick, but a first-round pick, nonetheless. 

The unfortunate reality remains that a first-round pick for any team, especially the Bears, in no way guarantees a successful pick.

Historically, the Bears have failed to make good decisions, especially when drafting high in the first round.  Cedric Benson, Curtis Enis, and David Terrell immediately come to mind.

Two of the three above mentioned failed to make any sort of impact and left the Bears after forgettable careers. 

Cedric Benson has found some measure of success with the Cincinnati Bengals but only after coming to the conclusion that he may actually have to work to earn his keep.

All things considered, perhaps having the 29th overall pick will prevent the Bears from further draft day disasters.

With that in mind, the Bears must address specific issues, most importantly, the offensive line.

The Bears now have their best signal caller since Sid Luckman but have no one to protect him. Protection is even more important when you take into account Mike Martz and his obsession with long developing plays. Jay Cutler may not remain upright long enough to reach his full potential while he wears the blue and orange.   

Some have projected that the Bears may draft a wide receiver in the first round.

That would be a mistake.  A huge mistake.

Without an offensive line, every other position on the offense is useless.  Running backs have no holes to run through, the quarterback has no time to find the open man, and the receivers are little more than sprinters that jog back to the line after the quarterback is peeled off the grass.

The Bears must draft an offensive lineman.

While it remains too early to make any solid predictions, here are a few possibilities. 

Danny Watkins from Baylor has been mentioned.  According to scouting reports, the 6’3”, 310-pound guard possesses natural strength and quickness.  However, he will turn 27 during the NFL season. 

Penn State center Stefen Wisniewski may prove a solid pick.  At 6’3”, 298 pounds, he may seem a bit undersized but makes up for it with precise technique and a solid work ethic. 

A very promising prospect remains Nate Solder from Colorado.  At 6’9″ and 315 pounds, Solder started his career as a tight end but moved over to tackle after putting on 30 pounds. 

Even with the added weight, he possesses speed.  Some have timed his 40 at 4.8.  That’s a very fast 315 pounds.  His quickness and strength makes it unlikely that he will remain available for long so the Bears must act when they can.

This upcoming draft may be one of the most crucial in recent Bears history.  The right decisions may yield a championship or two while a few missteps will have the Chicago Bears wallowing in a sea of mediocrity.

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