Derrick Brooks to Chicago Bears? Thanks, But No Thanks
Published by Max Kienzler on September 14, 2009
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears
It has been reported by several different sources that the Chicago Bears are in contract negotiations with free agent linebacker and future hall of famer Derrick Brooks.
This comes after the news that star middle linebacker Brian Urlacher is done for the season with a dislocated wrist.
Let me first say that Derrick Brooks is one of the great linebackers of this decade. He is a class act, was a hell of a player, and should be a first ballot hall of famer.
That said, under no circumstances should the Bears pursue this avenue.
Brooks is now 36 years old and did not participate in ANY training camp for any team. He will not come in ready to play and he is not the best player for the spot. The closest he came was working out for the Saints, but never signed with them.
Several years ago, the Chicago Bears were ready to let Lance Briggs walk instead of paying him an insane amount of money that he was demanding. They were confident that backup Jamar Williams would be able to take over his spot without a huge drop off.
As it turned out, Briggs tested the market and found that his best option was still with Chicago so Williams has toiled on the bench. But now is the perfect time…
Move Lance Briggs to middle linebacker.
I know their are rumors that he doesn’t want the position and that his skills are best suited for the weakside, but he is our best linebacker (he is arguably our best linebacker even with Urlacher healthy) and this is a chance for him to move to the middle and for Jamar Williams to come in and prove his worth.
Derrick Brooks is a fine player, but his best years are way behind him. The Bears have better options sitting on their bench.
Plus, by moving Briggs over and Williams into the starters role, that would allow the Bears to bring back their fifth round draft pick, Marcus Freeman who showed some serious flashes during preseason.
So while I understand that the Bears are trying to evaluate all their options but at this time, thanks but no thanks Derrick Brooks.
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