Bears Blitz

Published by Derek Estes on November 22, 2011
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears

The Broncos released Kyle Orton this evening in a surprise move which could rescue the Chicago Bears from an otherwise disappointing end to a solid season.

After a 2-3 start to the season, the Bears surged back into the NFC Central title race with five straight wins. Despite a schedule that features three teams with losing records over their final six games, Chicago’s chance at an NFC Wild Card berth quickly evaporated when Jay Cutler broke his right thumb against the San Diego Chargers.

Cutler and Matt Forte spearheaded the Bears’ offense, which delivered at least three touchdowns in each of their most recent five wins; Forte’s put together a career performance in a contract year.

With Cutler out of the lineup, though, Forte will rely on Caleb Hanie to deliver the vertical threat needed to create space for the running game. That’s a tall order for a third-year quarterback who’s only thrown 14 regular-season passes in his career.

Then the Broncos provide Orton with a second chance on his career, and in doing so, flare hope for Chicago’s playoff hopes.

Orton will hit waivers, meaning any team could put in a bid for his services. However, no team in the NFL would likely try claiming him.

The Miami Dolphins showed interest before the start of the season, nearly brokering a trade for Orton before cooling off on Denver’s asking price.

At 3-7, Miami stands little chance of a postseason appearance. What’s more, their offense finally started producing behind backup quarterback Matt Moore, winning three straight. Tony Sparano won’t likely disturb their current chemistry, which could potentially save his job.

The Seahawks could put in a bid, but they likewise stand virtually no chance at the playoffs; a veteran quarterback on the roster for six games won’t improve matters greatly.

I could review the other 28 teams, but the fact of the matter is no other team really has any use for Orton.

In Chicago, Orton posted poor numbers everywhere except the win column—a stark contrast to his two years in Denver where he posted over 3,500 yards and 20 touchdowns but few wins.

Assuming the Bears come up winners on the waiver wire, they’ll bet on Orton being able to put it all together and keep them in the hunt for another shot at the NFC Championship, maybe even the Super Bowl.

If nothing else, that wouldd be quite a story for the Bears’ former fourth-round pick.

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