Can Craig Steltz start at strong safety?
Steltz is a tackler, something the third tier of this defense sincerely lacked in 2007. Lined up next to Mike Brown, the LSU star would be able to fill the role left empty by Adam Archuleta last season. The comparisons heard round the world yesterday: Doug Plank and Gary Fencik.
Who is playing left guard?
Chris Williams, Olin Kreutz, Roberto Garza and John Tait seem pretty secure in their jobs. That leaves a gaping hole at the left guard slot. Is Josh Beekman a possibility? Will Terry Metcalf be given a shot? Might the signing of Alan Faneca have made this a non-issue? Someone has to line up and block.
Where does Earl Bennett fit in?
The Bears have a lot of wide receivers. Devin Hester will run straight. Marty Booker, Brandon Lloyd, Rash Davis and Mark Bradley will all compete for playing time. Bennett has an opportunity very few rookie receivers will have this season: to step on the field as the bona fide number one.
Forte a three-down back?
If you listened to Jerry Angelo's press conference after drafting Forte, he must have called him a "three-down back" ten times. In other words...Jerry fully expects Matt Forte to be the starting running back in 2008, relegating Cedric Benson back to his 2006 role and hopefully success. There won't be a more interesting player to watch this summer than our new tailback.
Who emerges next to Tommie Harris?
Matty T? Dusty D? Marcus Harrison? Israel Idonije? Someone has to start next to the all-world defensive tackle. The question is who.
Rex Grossman v. Kyle Orton
If the draft confirmed anything, it confirmed the Chicago Bears have a deep irrational faith in Rex Grossman and Kyle Orton. Their camp battle - while thoroughly unexciting - should dictate everything about 2008.
ADDENDUM:
The Bears signed their rookie free agents today and Mel Kiper loves Caleb Hanie from Colorado State (a quarterback). Kiper believes he'll carry the clipboard this season but has a chance to be the future starter. If Hanie is carrying the clipboard this season, we all know he has a chance to start by week nine.
#2 Phil from SATX said . . .1. Steltz will start if Brown is on the field to keep him in position, otherwise he will see limited playing time (running downs).
2. The BT must believe Beekman is ready to challenge Metcalf for the starting role.
3. I believe Bradley will emerge as our number one. (Assuming he has the keys to the infamous doghouse).
4. Forte is a 3 down back and will emerge as the starter assuming he is signed prior to camp. Note to Cedric - if you can't play special teams you will not make this club.
5. When healthy, we have the one of the most distruptive D-Lines in the NFL.
6. I am all about Rex.
7. One of our strenghts over the past few years is to get guys into camp on time. This is absolutely critical this season. The development of the rooks who can potentially start this year requires them to be in camp on day 1!!!
April 28, 2008
#3 jdawg said . . .Viva, great comment about importance of getting in camp. Absolutely critical this year. Have to disagree with you about Ced - calling Forte a 3 down back is meant to signal he is expected to be the starter and get the most reps - however, the Bears would love to get back to the '06 two-back attack which Ced will be one of the two, with Garrett still being a situational back with the fewest carries among the 3. Ced will be deployed just the same way as 2006, with Forte in the TJ role.
Jeff, Rex has shown enough to warrant the one-year extension role and the final decision on his future. I guess Kyle has too. Unless there was a guy to draft that they were sure was the future of the franchise in that post-Matt Ryan group, there was absolutely no reason to waste a pick on a guy that would only get playing time at the end of the season when we were already out of it because first Rex then Kyle bombed. It's not irrational faith - that would be signing either to expensive long term contracts and saying over and over again "Rex (Kyle) is our quarterback - next question." You won't catch them making that mistake again. This was a measured decision, that both QBs showed enough at the end of the year to warrant devoting one more year to them. It represented a Boolean decision - either one way or the other - but doing both didn't make sense here. (Mikeb knows Boolean)
Still asking - anyone have any thoughts about Hill? Also, if you want to cover your bets, maybe we'll have some time in the ensuing dog days to explore who that franchise QB of next year might be in case it ain't Rex or Kyle. But as to this year, just remember that there was only one 1st round choice this year and he got taken with the third pick in the draft. Flacco at 18 was a desperation move by the Ravens. All the rest were flyers - not bonafide franchise guys. Hopefully Rex will get the job done this year and warrant a long extension. If he doesn't, hopefully there's more than one bonafide franchise guy coming out next year. If there's one, then the Bears will be packaging everything they have and maybe #54 too to land that guy. (just kidding about #54)
April 28, 2008
#4 Duff Diggler said . . .Safeties: Brown and Manning
DT: Harris and Dusty
QB: Rex (he always looks good in training camp).
other than that, I have no idea
April 28, 2008
#5 Decatur Staleys #7 said . . .Tebow '09
April 28, 2008
#6 mikebdot said . . .Well while we ponder if Forte can replace Benson,I think its all about C Williams.He's holding the keys to this franchise to compete this season,an beyond.
So getting this guy in camp is 1# on the BT list of this off season to do list.April 28, 2008
#7 mikebdot said . . .I could go on and on about why I like this draft.
The lack of having a 3rd QB at this point in the season means nothing. I think we're going to trade someone for one of the 8 QBs on Tampa's roster or wait and see who gets cut during the summer. I don't think that is a terrible place to be. We may also sign another undrafted guy and let them go head to head in camp for the third spot. The fact that we signed someone so quickly after the draft probably goes to show that we had that kid in mind all along. I don't think they signed Leak this quickly.
In any event, I'm looking forward to the battles for the final roster spot. I'm very interested in how everything is going to shape up. I could go position by position, but don't want to blow my wad one day after the draft...
Yes, it's all about the boolean logic. If everything comes up "false", there isn't much you can do. Let's just hope Williams + Forte = "true"
April 28, 2008
#8 Phil from SATX said . . .And, I'll actually guess at a starting lineup:
O:
Grossman
Williams, Beekman, Kreutz, Garza, Tait
Olsen
Forte (yes), McKie
Booker, Hester (Bradley, when McKie out)D:
Tommie, DD, A. Brown, Ogun
Briggs, Urlacher, Okwo
Tillman, Vasher, Brown, Payne (yes)I think Ricky Manning Jr. has a tough time making the roster this season.
We could trade any of the following for a QB: Davis, Manning Jr., any safety that isn't Brown/Payne, Mark Anderson.
I hate our FBs. I wish we'd move AP to fullback.
April 28, 2008
#9 Polygonhell said . . .Biggest surprise on Mikeb's list - Okwo beats out Hunter? If so that would mean a VERY strong linebacking crew. Behind a VERY strong line. Next to VERY strong corners. Safeties (and injury risk) looks to be the only thing keeping us from being the unquestionable #1 D going into next season. What do you think about D. Manning being trade bait for some team who needs depth at free safety? He was a 2nd rounder who has performed pretty well thus far in his young career - but we are pretty high on McBride and McGowan and now Bowman to couple with Mike Brown and Craig Stelz - maybe we shoot him to someone for a guard, a better fullback or more DT depth? I would think out of all our potential depth leftovers, he may have the most value to another team. And speaking of high value, the Mark Anderson deal could net us something very good - he's shown enough to get other teams really interested, even after slowing down and showing some roughness last year. I know people will say Dan Bazuin for this, but his trade value would probably be minimal given that he hasn't done anything yet except collect a paycheck.
April 28, 2008
#10 Phil from SATX said . . .On S who knows.... given last years injuries and under performers there, anyhting to add depth is a good thing. If I had to guess I'd go with Mike Brown and a to sup between Kevin Payne and Craig Steltz.
On Left Guard, either the Bears have some faith that Beekman is a starter this year or the linemen they took in the 7th didn't grade out much worse on their boards than the 4th+ round guards.
Teams always take a lot of recievers into camp, I stillt hink this is Hesters year to start the majority of downs, who the supporting cast is, is going to be decided in camp.
The Forte thing is more interesting, Ced is certainly on notice with this. And even if Ced beats him out in camp this year, I'd see him getting a lot of snaps.
The Bears will add a 4th QB for camp, going into the season they'll carry 3 on the roster and 1 on the practice squad. What's not clear to me is if Nick Hill was picked up to sit on the practicesquad this year, or they see him as earning a roster spot.
April 28, 2008
#11 animal said . . .I was reading back from last few threads and realized I had forgotten to give Big Rob kudos for
Eat that bitch!
Hilarious! (see yesterday)
April 28, 2008
#12 Shady said . . .Chicago Bears: GRADE: B
Chris Williams is the left tackle the Bears need from a pass-protection standpoint, and he'll start as a rookie. Matt Forte is a hard-nosed running back. He's not flashy, but he's elusive. I like what the Bears did on Day 2, starting with Vanderbilt WR Earl Bennett, who reminds me of Hines Ward. Arkansas DT Marcus Harrison lasted until the third round because of some off-field concerns, and Nebraska's Zack Bowman is a big corner who was once projected as a first-round pick, before he suffered injuries to both knees. LSU safety Craig Steltz -- who reminds me of former Bear Doug Plank -- will be a solid special teams player and could push for a starting job. With his height, Arkansas WR Marcus Monk could be a red zone threat and he qualifies as a very good seventh-round pick. He looked like a second-rounder after his junior year, and ran a 4.42 in the 40-yard dash, which is excellent for a 6-foot-4, 220-pound receiver. Tight end Kellen Davis has tremendous athletic ability but he needs to be more consistenApril 28, 2008
#13 animal said . . .How about St. Clair starting at Guard? He's pretty massive.
April 28, 2008
#14 mikebdot said . . .Whoa. Whoa there. Every year people overvalue rookies, only to come back to reality when they are all sitting on opening day. Take it easy on the Steltz/Forte/Harrison possible starters bit.
The only possibility is Williams.April 28, 2008
#15 mikebdot said . . .Phil: I just wanted to see if anyone noticed. There's probably no way HH doesn't start, but was in a strange conspiracy theory type mood.
I wouldn't actually guess Forte would start either, but I think there is a chance he is gone by the season opener. Not sure why I think that, but I ran with it anyway. I think it has something to do with the fact that the only RB that is virtually assured a spot on the roster is Forte. I've got a spreadsheet going for possible spots on the roster for each position, but I'll save it until I feel like talking too much or am really reall bored.
April 28, 2008
#16 Pissed Off said . . .I'm kind of out of it today, didn't get much sleep this past weekend, so, that second paragraph was crap. Was trying to say I think there is a chance Benson is gone by season opener and really reallY bored. And probably other errors as well.
April 28, 2008
#17 Phil from SATX said . . .I think the draft was a success on paper. We wont know until it plays out cuz there are certainly going to be a couple of busts in there just like every team has, lets just hope they are a couple of the later positions drafted and the first 4 work out. I love Bennet. I Love Williams, him or Otah I would have been cool with but I think Williams is the better talent and thats why he was taken, I projected Otah cuz I though Williams would have been gone by 14th. I kept seeing Clady slip and I thought there might be a chance we'd get him but Williams'll do. I ws lukewarm on Forte, but after viewing some film, etc, he looks a like a good runner. The Bears had previously met him before the draft so I guess it shouldnt have been a surprise pick. Glad to see Stewart went before Mendenhall, IMO Stewarts the better back and it looks like some NFL team agreed with me.
I dont know much about Harrison but we needed a little extra help inside for depth if nothing else. If DD, Tommie, the Big Toe all stay healthy, we're good to go, plus Izzy can play some DT or DE. If it all falls into place Harrison might not see any time but that means we're healthy and I'm OK with that.
Im not even going to entertain the tebow talk at this time cuz one year from now is a long ways away and no one knows what can happen. And we dont know for sure if Forte will replace Ced or what will happen. I hope its like the 1-2 punch of 06, but dont we all.
I dont see Okwo beating out Hunter and I dont see Beekman or Hester starting either. I am more than a little curious to see who it is we pick up as a 3rd QB. And speaking of FBs. I think we should have drafted that Owen Schmitt guy, I think he was from West Virgina? What a tough SOB!! But smartly Seattle nabbed him.
I just wish we'd re-sign Ruben Brown, he's a good guard, and St. Clair or any massive bodied O-lineman could plug that guard hole.
April 28, 2008
#18 big rob said . . .I feel 100% certain that Forte will be the opening day starter. If he's not I think it will mean he was somewhat of a mistake. I think BT doesn't give a crap about CB's feelings as they would another former starter - they're pissed at him (and especially Jerry) for helping Jerry add to his reputation of offensive busts. But they WILL use him, and try to get the most out of his contract year. Who knows - if he's going great guns along with Forte maybe they'll use his rising stock to trade him mid-season and really get something for him.
Agree that of all draft picks - only Williams and Forte will be 1st day starters. However, starter just means who starts the game, and Bennett will have the opportunity for a huge role this year. Stelz will be playing special teams, Davis will get some playing time (at least as much as Gilmore), so might Williams in rotating duty. Don't know about Bowman, probably special teams too?
April 28, 2008
#19 Pissed Off said . . .thanks for the kudos phil!!
April 28, 2008
#20 Duff Diggler said . . .I still feel like Benson will be "starting." Forte will see plenty of work but I think Ced hangs on to the "starter" position much like TJ did when Ced arrived as a rookie. That said, if Ced plays with any heart, or for money due to the contract year, he can be very effective. What does this guy care about? He doesnt have heart so he doesnt care about that, and maybe he'll play shitty and not care about getting a contract extension or the money either. What gives?
April 28, 2008
#21 Pissed Off said . . .Wow. I'd have Jamar Williams start over Okwo....
April 28, 2008
#22 Phil from SATX said . . .As would I.
If Williams works out as the opening day starter at LT and Tait is on the RT side, Tait will automatically become an elite RT in the NFL. Williams is more of a Pass protector than a run blocker so I can see a lot of "Rex hands off to Forte on the right side." Sounds good to me.
April 28, 2008
#23 JB said . . .PO'd, I know it runs counter to how NFL clubs run things - but I am telling you now that Forte will be installed as the "starter" for the beginning of the season. It's generally very important for teams to protect the integrity of the veterans/starting roles in order to manage all the egos, even if you feel like a younger guy might help you more. In this case, though, there is zero love lost between Ced and any of the management team. I think the way they're looking at it, his career is hanging by a thread right now and he should feel lucky that they haven't cut him already. With all the negative things Angelo's said about Ced (coming from a guy who typically will not say anything negative about a player), there's no doubt in my mind that Forte was drafted to be the new #1. And Angelo is not a bad guy, nor is Lovie, but I do believe they will experience some pleasure when they get to trot out Matt Forte on the opening series of the Colts game. I could be wrong, but I don't think I am.
I hope you're right about Tait. He's getting old now, let's just hope that we haven't wasted his last years with him on the wrong side. Ruben Brown has not signed, I wonder if there's any info out there as to his rehab. I'd like him back if he's healed.
I read that Williams can be turned into a better run blocker with strength training. But I agree - runs to the right will be a staple next year - even Ced will be able to be productive if he has some decent blocking ahead of him.
April 28, 2008
#24 Max said . . ."Tait will automatically become an elite RT in the NFL. " Man, PO'd, you make some strong statements. Elite? How about better than average, that's probably a little more realistic. I don't think John Tait moving back to the right side is going to elevate him to the top 2 or 3 RT in the game.
I'm pretty much pleased with the draft. I know nothing about Forte, so a lot of it depends on him. I like the Bennett pick and Stelz is going to be a good player for us. I actually picked Marcus Harrison on my mock...only two rounds later...but still. He seems to fit into the prototype of what we like at DT.
And then I like what we did with taking some risks in the later rounds. One of those guys pans out to reach their potential and it's an amazing draft. That CB can fly.
I'd say this draft signaled very strongly that Manning Jr. and Archuleta will most likely be cut...I don't think JA has the balls to actually cut Ced, but it looks like this is his last year. Plus, I don't see lloyd making this team at all. Lot of young OL talent picked late so if one pans out, we'll see a lot of turnover in the backups too. Could be an interesting camp.
I was surprised that we passed on Brohm (completely fine with not drafting Henne). I'm also surprised we passed on picking JDB, but I really like the Stelz pick so I'm really not that upset.
April 28, 2008
#25 zisk said . . .Week 1 starting line up
LT - Chris Williams
LG - Terrance F-ing Metcalf (If we resign Brown, then him, but right now I dont see Beekman taking Metcalf. . . I hope he does cause Metcalf is miserable, but Im going stay negative)
C - Olin Kruetz
RG - Roberto Garza
RT - John Tait
QB - Sexy Rexy
RB - Cedric Benson (The coaches and media will be all over this battle. . . they will be talking about how Forte has shown alot of heart and the Ced is responding with some positive runs and Blah Blah Blah, when it comes week 1, Ced will be starting)
FB - Jason McKie
TE - Greg Olsen (I wanna see alot of 2 TE sets with Dez)
WR - Marty Booker and Brandon Lloyd (Hester might get more snaps but he just wont be ready to deal with all the routes a starting WR has to know, Bennett is a rookie, and Bradley I like but is he still going to be in ill favor come week one??? I hope he isnt, but Im not holding my breath)Defense
DE - Wale and Alex Brown (Anderson comes in during passing situations)
DT - Tommie and Dusty (i think if both stay healthy, this is going to be a destructive D-line)
OLB - Briggs and Hunter (i like Jamar, but Hunter is just to solid.)
MLB - The face of our franchise. . .
CB - Peanut and Ballhawk
FS - Mike Brown
SS - Kevin Payne (good call mikeb)In terms of Nick Hill, everything I have been reading has talked about how he is smart and takes what the D gives him. Good at making plays with his legs when he has to but isnt much of a runner otherwise. Seems like an accurate passer and a good leader
On the flip side, didnt play at a high level of competition and his arm strength is described as "average". Has trouble throwing the deep ball.
Also, he's left handed so if he were to ever start, Tait would be guarding his blind side if that makes any difference
April 28, 2008
#26 PolygonHell said . . .I say
QB rex he will be alright until getting injured and orton finishes strong
RB benson but forte will take a lot of his carries and wolfe will be the 3rd down guy
WR booker and hester start but mid season we'll find out bradley is really good and hester moves to the slot
TE they both start
FB fuck mckie, we're starting 2 tight ends
OL from left to right williams beekman (I think they have a lot of faith in him) kreutz garza taitDE wale and brown who narrowly beats anderson for the job
DT harris and DD with toeina replacing whoever gets hurt
LB the same ones as last year
CB peanut vasher and mcbride in nickle
FS manning
SS brown until injured then replaced by mcgowan who gets replaced by payneApril 28, 2008
#27 Max said . . .I was just listening to Lovie Smiths post draft conference on the site and in response to the QB question he sounds like they already have targetted some specific Free Agents, so we may have a move sooner than later.
Of course I could just be reading more into it than was intended.
April 28, 2008
#28 Shady said . . .We signed Nick Hill and we signed Caleb Hanie out of Colorado St.
Hill I have info on, Hanie is a mystery to me. He didnt appear to work out at the combine. He did have a pro day that a couple teams went to but i cant find anything other than the teams that went. There is a youtube video of him throwing a 45 yard pass for a touchdown, but thats it. Only thing I know for sure is that Mel Kiper was all on his nuts when talking about sleeper picks at QB
April 28, 2008
#29 Shady said . . .Chris Williams:
http://www.chicagobears.com/multimedia/multimediapopup.asp?MM_FILE_ID=1078&PLAY_CLIP=Y
How can you NOT like this pick?
April 28, 2008
#30 said . . .And the aforementioned Caleb Hanie:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9RJM_8lHxW8
It's not much, but I like what I see.
April 28, 2008
#31 animal said . . .Heine and Hill are not the answer any more than Chris Leak was the answer.
I liked the idea that a trade will happen, maybe for Chris Simms. Maybe Jake the Snake feels like throwing a few more INTs before he retires again.
Or maybe we'll go into the season with- gasp- two proven playoff quarterbacks battling their asses off for a job, with something to prove to the world and a chip on their shoulders.April 29, 2008
#32 jeff said . . .sorry, 30 was me (being overly optimistic)
Raidahs just released Dominic Rhodes.
April 29, 2008
#33 Viva said . . .shady, he's about the most likable player on the roster. and i love what he says about earl.
April 29, 2008
#34 jeff said . . .Regarding Cedric Benson:
The Bears have always carried 3 RB's on their roster, and Adrian Peterson has always contributed on special teams (making him somewhat untouchable).
One of these 4 will be cut or traded - Benson, Peterson, Wolfe, Forte, and one of these guys will have to play some special teams.
I would keep - MF/AP/GW - (keep some continuity on Special Teams, because we no longer have our ace BA). This group will perform better with an improved line.
By the way, have we signed our picks yet? Tick tock, Jerry!!
April 29, 2008
#35 jdawg said . . .i think we'll keep all four running backs and slide adrian peterson to the BA - special teams specific role...and occasionally use him on offense.
April 29, 2008
#36 Shady said . . .I suggest delving deeper into the Monk pick. This guy could be the real deal if his knees hold up.
April 29, 2008
#37 mikebdot said . . .Now the REAL question becomes, which rookie jersey do you buy 1st?
I say Forte, but Monk ain't bad.
April 29, 2008
#38 Matt said . . .Chris Williams is awesome. Wow.
That pass by Hanie looked like that is the farthest he could possibly throw a football. His mechanics were absolutely terrible.
April 29, 2008
#39 Matt said . . .I like our draft picks a lot. Overall, a B+. The only pick I disagree with is the TE from Mich St. He is obviously a big target and looks like he has great hands, but we already have Olsen and Dez which is a very solid TE core. What's the point of having the guy sit on the bench when we could have a QB like Dixon or Woodson sitting on the bench and learning the system. I really hope passing on those guys don't come back to bite us. I'm willing to be patient with Rex or Orton for ONE more year, but it would have been better to pick one of those guys rather than an extra TE.
April 29, 2008
#40 Max said . . .Oh yeah....Watch out for Payne this year if he stays healthy. He looked nasty last pre-season, BIG hitter.
April 29, 2008
#41 Pissed Off said . . .IF YOU DONT CARE ABOUT OUR FA ROOKIE SIGNINGS, SKIP MY POST.
What I know about the FA rookies (that I have taken off of rivals.com and nfldraftcountdown.com and typing in their name on google)Hill - Ive already discussed
Caleb Hanie 6'1 235 lbs
I tried looking online, seems to have a big arm, good leadership but mechanics need work and the level of competition was pretty weak. . . but Kiper loves him
OT Cody Balogh - 6'6 319 lbs
Played OT but projected OG, good technique, smart player but isn't a superb athlete and needs to improve footwork. Projected to be utility lineman
DB Trey Brown - 5-8 186 lbs
Good ball instincts, plays run well, said to be a playmaker, but does not have great speed, 4.65 40 time and will get over powered by NFL receivers. Projected to be nickel in a zone D.
DE Joe Clermond - 6'2 249 lbs
Quick, good intangibles, could play more than one position but lacks muscle and has trouble shedding blocks. Projected as a pass rush specialist or maybe linebacker
DT David Faaeteete - 6'2 307 lbs
I had a lot of trouble finding info on this guy. Somebody on a message board commented that he played next to Big Toe so he should at least be comfortable. He’s big, he was a 2 year starter at Oregon, and he’s Samoan so you know he likes to scrap. Projected: No clue
WR Curtis Hamilton – 6’0 195 lbs
Another guy couldn’t get a real description on. Seems like he has good hands and runs decent routes. He had 66 rec. for 873 yards but only 4 touchdowns this past year. He has to be a speedy guy cause he certainly isn’t a big receiver. Projected: No clue, but with 8 other receivers, probably not on our team
PK Shane Longest – 5’10 177 lbs
Can hit from beyond 50 but his consistency isn’t very good and his kick offs are average at best. . . BUT HIS NAME IS LONGEST! That’s awesome. Projected: Good as Gould, so not on this team
DB Leslie Majors – 5’10 175 lbs
Fast, good instincts and ball skills but small, needs to bulk up (he weighs less than Longest) Projected: Nickel package if he gets bigger
DE Nick Osborn – 6’3 260 lbs
I have no clue on this one either. He ran a 5.04 40 time, which seems a little slow. Probably has a high motor and good character . . . but I am just speculatingreally long, sorry
April 29, 2008
#42 Phil from SATX said . . .Dont know if this was mentioned earlier as I havent read all comments but Mel Kiper loves Hanie as Jeff eluded to but also during the 5PM central sportscenter he said the Bears had the best draft of any team in the NFL that will help the team this year. Thats great news.
Regarding Hanie, lets get real though, this is an undrafted talent QB. He cant be very good but I guess we need someone to be the 3rd stringer huh? I dont suspect he'll be on any NFL roster after 2008.
April 29, 2008
#43 Prefontaine said . . .Matt, don't know why but we've always carried 3 TE's - so Davis is just a replacement for the lost Gilmore. Not a luxury, apparently. Interesting feedback on the free agents, Max - here's some random thoughts
Trey Brown - 5'8" DB that can't run? What the hell CAN he do? Maybe he jumps like a monkey.
Faateeete - Could that team have possibly had TWO Samoans lined up next to each other (isn't Toe Samoan) - that's an interesting scouting strategy - one trip to Samoa, pick up two players
Also, forget about any 7th round wide receivers - we had two very interesting prospects in Hass and Ball and they couldn't see the field, much to all of our chagrin.
Thanks for the update! Love the comment by Kiper, can you post a link?
April 29, 2008
#44 JB said . . .Mel Likes us. He really likes us!!
http://sports.espn.go.com/broadband/video/videopage?&brand=null&videoId=3372946&n8pe6c=3
April 29, 2008
#45 Phil from SATX said . . .I generally don't listen to those talking heads at ESPN, but I've always respected Kiper. He's not so much a talking head as he is a legit expert in his field. If he thinks we had a great draft to win now, I think we should all be pretty happy. So we didn't get a QB...so what. They all sucked anyways.
April 29, 2008
#46 Pissed Off said . . .Crap, no text on that? Can't view at work. Computers that came over on the Mayflower.
I know it doesn't matter what others say about us, but I like not having to be so defensive about it. If Kiper's out there saying that, you can bet that some of the lesser lights will pick up on it - many don't actually think for themselves, as we have learned.
I for one can't wait for Rex to get out there and show what he can do with a TOTALLY REVAMPED offense and make Steve Young and Troy Aikman (two guys I otherwise respect greatly as analysts) EAT THEIR WORDS.
Jerry Angelo will win GM of the Year after the 2008 season is in the books. Let's hope Lovie and Ron Turner can deliver the goods as well with their many new, upgraded parts which also include addition by subtraction.
April 29, 2008
#47 Phil from SATX said . . .Excited for this year. I just want Rex to stay healthy more than anything. The year he stays healthy we go to the super bowl, go figure. And I will stand by my sentiments that if Rex doesnt go down against Washington this team would have been in the playoffs. Probably not much of a run but who knows, this team has playoff experience.
Now if things fall into place I see no reason this team cant get into the playoffs in the crappy NFC. There is one national guy who claims to be the sole member and president of the Rex Grossman fan club and his name is Adam Schein. Hey Adam, I was there long before you pal. So there is at least one National guy who doesnt dump on Rex.
April 29, 2008
#48 ATP said . . .Not that there's any compelling reason to engage in Rex convo, but here goes.
The hard thing, we are learning, about finding a franchise QB is finding the right combination of the types of QBs we most frequently see: big arm, or good decision-makers. Within the big arm category, they also divide into big arms with accuracy/touch, or just big arm can throw it a mile.
The franchise combination is big, accurate arm plus decision-making. That's when you get your Tom Brady's and Peyton Mannings.
The crop that came out this year had mostly good decision-makers coupled with less than great arms. Flacco was the exception, with a huge arm but more questionable mechanics and possibly decision-making.
If a kid has a brain, I much rather go with the pedigree arm than the weak arm/good decision maker. We saw what you get with that combination - you get Brian Griese. He will win games for you, just not enough of them, especially the big ones which always feature great D's.
Rex has a brain, which is why I see him able to continue to progress on decision-making. He also has the bonafide pedigree arm, with maybe the best-thrown ball in the NFL, or at least top 5. None of the guys in this year's draft had Rex's arm/throwing motion. Remember they have said if you filmed from the waist up, you could make a training video out of Rex's throwing mechanics (we already know about the problems with him when he doesn't get his feet set).
I don't know if we'll see a return to the first 5 games of 2006 - don't know if Bradley or Hester will do the Berrian impression - but what I do believe is that teams will not know how to defend our offensive attack, with a mix of effective running and spreading the ball around to guys who can catch it. I am predicting efficiency on offense that will make 2007 seem like it couldn't possibly be the same team.
Can't wait! Go Bears! Sign them draftees!
April 29, 2008
#49 Phil from SATX said . . .Pretty decent draft by the bears. I think Williams will start game 1. Hopefully Forte can get in the mix by then as well... i have always liked the two back system. Problem is CB is such a cry baby it will be intresting to see if it causes some locker room issues.
I think they will start off the season using hester TOO often, and he will struggle. Eventually Bradley and Booker will emerge as #1 and #2. But, due to the fact that we have Bradley, Hester, Booker, and a good slot guy in Davis, Early won't see too much action unless there's an injury (besides we're gonna be running 50 times a game).
I really like Steltz, and i really hate AA... so i'd love to see him get in the mix. Problem is you have Payne, McGowan, AA, and Manning all log jammed behind Brownie... who i hope plays every snap of every game all year.
I hope Harrison stays out of trouble and becomes a monster on the field. As much as i like DD, and Tommie Harris, having a third guy who can rotate in would be huge. We COULD have the best D-line in the NFC (maybe the NFL) if everyone stays healthy and plays up to par.
SO i guess... i'm really excited about our defense rebounding to possibly one of (if not THE) best in the NFL. Our offense is going to be our weak point (as usual) but having another capible warm body at RB plus some line help will be huge.
A bonus would be Bradley or Loydd developing into above average WR's. They are both sort of unknown's... so we'll see. I hate to say it, but as much as i love #23, he's never going to be steve smith... Let him do what he does best. He changed the way special teams is played... and he has a place on offense, but #1 WR isn't it. He's scored more TD's over 2 seasons then anyone on the roster, and only 2 have come via WR.
ok...back to work.
April 29, 2008
#50 Shady McShay Hater said . . .ATP, don't forget we picked Earl Bennett and not Early Doucet! (or maybe that's Earl's nickname?)
I have an uncomfortable feeling that you may be right about the overuse of DH early. I am hoping against hope that RT doesn't have pre-slotted roles. It's like the zillions of movies where the dude loves the really hot popular chick but the solid, cute but not super-hot best friend is right next to him the whole time. If Earl Bennett turns into the real deal, coupled with very fast Bradley and catch it all Marty, not to mention TEA-Time plus balls thrown to Forte and Wolfe - do we really need to rely on forcing the ball downfield to Hester?
Yet I fear that's just what Turner will do. Hope I'm wrong.
April 29, 2008
#51 Pissed Off said . . .Re: that video #43
I'm so fucking sick of listening to analysts dissect our QB's. Especially the Todd McShay faggot. Who is that guy anyway? He can go lick Kiper's grundel for all I care. Whiney bitch.
It's guys like him who make me want to defend Grossman and Orton. Not that I would normally, but when I hear "outsiders" talking shit about our QB situation, I get all angry and defensive. I mean, it's OK for US to talk about our QBs that way, but when guys like McShay pile on about Grossman and Orton I want to ask them WHY we should have drafted a QB to backup our backup QBs?
Seriously, drafting a QB in the middle rounds is a waste of time. The Bears were better off drafting the guys they did, guys who can make an immediate impact NOW. When drafting QBs, either take the 1 or 2 (Ryan and Flacco) at the top of the list or wait until round 6,7 or FA and hope to get lucky.
Fuck Brohm, fuck Henne and FUCK McSHAY!
Shady angry.
April 29, 2008
#52 Justin said . . .Saw that yesterday live on sportscenter. McShay is a tool and he makes Kiper look like a genius with his idiotic crap. Kiper is the foremost NFL expert regarding players/drafts and actually knowing a bit about football teams rather than the media hype.
April 29, 2008
#53 Jason said . . .I am graduating from SIU in a week so its great to see SIU alum Nick Hill get signed in state.
We did lose to Flacco in the Semi-Finals this year 20-17 and Nick Hill looked atrocious. But he was consistent throughout the season (28 TDs-7 INTs) Who knows though...look what Tony Romo did out of EIU
April 29, 2008
#54 Duff Diggler said . . .Hey Bears fans:
You guys just got Jerry Rice Jr. Bennett will be in a Bears uni for a decade and more. To say he's the real deal is an understatement.
April 29, 2008
#55 Max said . . .How 'bout these nicknames?
Chris "The Whale" Williams
or simply
"C-Dub"Matt "Hold the fort down" Forte
or
Solier Field's "Fort Matte"Fiesty Earl "The Squirrel" Bennett
Marcus "E-Tackle" Harrison
or just
"The Roller" (roll over you)Craig "The wife stealer" Steltz
or
"The real white hope"Marcus "The Shou-Lin" Monk
or
"The Miracle Monk"....i'm bored
....work suxApril 29, 2008
#56 animal said . . .HAHA!. . . I like "Fort Matte"
April 29, 2008
#57 Shady said . . .further proof that Todd McGay is fucking nuts
http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/draft08/insider/columns/story?columnist=mcshay_todd&id=3372132a mock draft for 09.
He has us taking Tebow... is that guy really an NFL QB? because he looks like an option/running college QB who cant really throw to me.
April 29, 2008
#58 jeff said . . ."C-Dub" I like it.
Matt "Hold the fort down" Forte... Not bad. If only he could wear the #40. We could un-retire Gale's number for a lil while, I'm sure he'd understand...haha
Fiesty Earl "The Squirrel" Bennett. I love it.
Marcus "E-Tackle" Harrison
or just
"The Roller" (roll over you) - Extacy references. Nice.Craig "The wife stealer" Steltz - I like Jeff's, "The Steltz Bomber"
Marcus "The Shou-Lin" Monk. Nice.
Nice work.
April 29, 2008
#59 Shady said . . .no more nickname that involve "dub" or first letter of first name and first syllable of last name.
April 29, 2008
#60 jeff said . . .How about "Big Cat" Williams part deux?
April 29, 2008
#61 Shady said . . .great rosenbloom line:
The Panthers signed defensive tackle Darwin Walker, so the Bears have a shot to run for 100 yards at least once this year.
April 29, 2008
#62 animal said . . .The thing is, Walker wasn't BAD, he just couldn't stay healthy.
Off to the Cubs game! I have 2 extra tix for May 1st if anybody wants.
Jesse, where's my money? Seriously. Don't make me hire Tommie to come and help you find your checkbook.
April 29, 2008
#63 jeff said . . .Jay Mariotti make me angry.
In his latest rip on the Bears, based on not picking some college kid to play backup this year, he says the door is slammed on a one and done super bowl run.Repeat after me Jay- a young, inexperience Kyle Orton quarterbacked this team to the playoffs. A young, inexperienced Grossman quarterbacked this team to a Super Bowl two years ago.
Are they great? not right now. Are they terrible? no way. could one of them end up being great? absolutely.
So we "missed" on Romo? Explain essentially what Romo has on Grossman, other than many more weapons? With a far better offense, he failed in the playoffs twice while Rex succeeded.
April 29, 2008
#64 jdawg said . . .jay used the bears haven't won a playoff game since blah blah argument when it suited him and now he avoids that argument when it comes to romo - who hasn't won a playoff game. it's about convenience for most sports writers.
April 30, 2008
#65 zisk said . . .I've actually gotten to the point of being ammused by Marriotti. I don't read his columns, but the headlines and the ledes are always good for a chuckle.
I would like to say he's jumped the shark, but who can say when?
April 30, 2008
#66 Polygonhell said . . .In that 2009 mock draft McDouche had the bears picking 7th, we better have traded up because there is no way we can be as bad next year as we were this one. Considering we were 7-9 I'm thinking playoffs for sure
April 30, 2008
#67 Pet Peeve said . . .We've started reaching that part of the year, where my judgement gets skewed and I start thinking Super Bowl this season.
Having said that I just want to see an offense on the field this year that can execute something. The more I look at the draft picks, the more I think the organisation drafted well.
I've watched a lot of loosing Bears seasons over the years and I always enter the next one expecting to win. It irritates me when the Bears loose, I hate it when they play poorly and loose.
April 30, 2008
#68 Wayne Scott said . . .Reading that last paragraph was like sprinkling salt in my eyes, then rinsing it out with boric acid and finishing up with a swift kick to the nuts.
April 30, 2008
#69 Wayne Scott said . . .I hate Marriotti, if that is how you spell his name, but he made a good point. Where is our QB? If they do poorly we are screwed and if they do well we are hamstrung. Will somebody get this team away from the old family. This is what happens when men like Halas only have girls... we get this crap, a team who knows they don't have to win make their money, so why try. It only gives them more responsibility after all. Sorry, Cubs fever
April 30, 2008
#70 Wayne Scott said . . .I hate Marriotti, if that is how you spell his name, but he made a good point. Where is our QB? If they do poorly we are screwed and if they do well we are hamstrung. Will somebody get this team away from the old family. This is what happens when men like Halas only have girls... we get this crap, a team who knows they don't have to win make their money, so why try. It only gives them more responsibility after all. Sorry, Cubs fever
April 30, 2008
#71 Wayne Scott said . . .I hate Marriotti, if that is how you spell his name, but he made a good point. Where is our QB? If they do poorly we are screwed and if they do well we are hamstrung. Will somebody get this team away from the old family. This is what happens when men like Halas only have girls... we get this crap, a team who knows they don't have to win make their money, so why try. It only gives them more responsibility after all. Sorry, Cubs fever
April 30, 2008
#72 jdawg said . . .I hate Marriotti, if that is how you spell his name, but he made a good point. Where is our QB? If they do poorly we are screwed and if they do well we are hamstrung. Will somebody get this team away from the old family. This is what happens when men like Halas only have girls... we get this crap, a team who knows they don't have to win make their money, so why try. It only gives them more responsibility after all. Sorry, Cubs fever
April 30, 2008
#73 Pissed Off said . . .Regarding the QBs:
We will have a better line and a better running game than last year. Olsen should be better and more integrated with the offense. We also seem to have drafted some potentially good receivers (I've said it before, keep an eye on Monk).
With Tait at RT and Williams at LT either QB should have more time in the pocket. Forte can block and catch the ball. Hester will have a year under his belt at WR.
There is no way we get worse QB play this year and if Grossman wins the job I expect him to average 60's and 80's in comp. % and rating. Same with Orton. Not great, but good enough with our D.
April 30, 2008
#74 Phil from SATX said . . .I think we all hate it when the Bears loose. I for one, get emotionally attached to this team and then I get my heart stomped on. I shouldnt get so involved every year but I do. I have to. I love the Bears and care about them winning more than most of the players do. I love a particular basketball team a lot too, but I dont invest as much emotionally as I do with the Bears becuase I couldnt take the heartbreak twice a year. The Bears are it, they are my team.
Regarding Mariotti, that guy is a looser piece of shit. He always wants the negative, he's just trying get peoples attention. I bet he doesnt even like the local sports teams. He certainly doesnt invest anything as a fan in to the team. If they were all great his job would suffer. Oh yeah, and I'm still glad we got rid of Mouse that quitting looser.
April 30, 2008
#75 Rancid said . . .Wayne Scott, congratulations! That is the first quadruple post in history on this site! (at least that I remember) There's been many 3 postings, never seen 4! (no worries, we've all done it)
But a question - how are we "hamstrung" if our QBs do well? Because we have to sign them to a long term contract? Wouldn't we want to?
This year is the referendum year on Rex, created because it was an unusually dead year for free agents and a bad year for QBs in the draft - and also because his resurgence after being benched gave the Bears a reason to hope, at least one year's worth of reason. If there were great free agents out there, we would have done a deal for one. If there were great QBs to draft, we would have drafted one. There weren't, in either case.
Peeve is you Shady, right? I love when the Peeve resurfaces. PO'd you can be very funny. That was a subtle post.
Let's talk spelling for a moment, okay? Why oh why does the world have such a problem with this? Never knew it was an issue until becoming a regular visitor of Da Bears Blog
Lose vs. loose - what? Loose is how your pants fit when you have lost weight. Lose is when you lose your keys or lose at poker.
It's means it is. Everything else is its.
When you sell something, you sell it, not sale it. (many transgressors down here in Texas - and those who transgress, often reverse them - I attended a sell at Macy's - I need to sale my car)
What else? you're vs. your has already been covered. What I wish is that once one learns this, it would stay learned. Megan has been busted on loose before, admitted the problem and still came back with loose after. I love you Megan, but does loose have to be hardwired? It appears to be your only spelling flaw.
Does this count as being an asshole, which per the blog I am not free to be? Hopefully not, all in good fun.
jdawg, you're on it. We're going to turn the NFL upside down next year as they try to understand how in the world can a quarterback as bad as Rex Grossman and an offense as bad as the Bears have so much incredible success? They'll try to credit the D and DH (which will deserve some) but the yards and points will be indisputable.
Can't wait.
April 30, 2008
#76 JWilson said . . .As the draft fades in the rear view mirror, I keep appreciating the fact we didn't take a QB. For starters, I don't think we get a RB that fits our system and could push CB out with our third round pick. Kevin Smith also went before our 3rd round pick. Forte would have been gone too and that would have left us with a RB who could have the potential to help CB, but not replace him entirely. As someone said earlier, I do like Grossman more than Benson.
Also, had we taken Brohm or Henne we would be looking at a full blown 3 headed QB controversy like we had last year the first time Rex throws a pick 6. This way we have Rex (a guy who has shown he can be the guy if he ever becomes Good Rex consistently) KO (a guy who has shown he can and should be a reliable solid #2 QB in this league) and a project (one of our 2 undrafted guys) who will have no prayer of starting anytime soon. Hence no controversy.
That allows Rex a straight shot at his contract year. Step up and do this thing, man. That allows us to find out if we actually did land that 1% chance of the undrafted QB who can grow into a starter. He gets a whole year on a club to watch and learn wothout any pressure to actually play. I think even if we drafted an Ainge or Brennen type in the 5-7th round some fans would be clamoring for them to start if it began to look sour. This is probably the best path.
Concerning grammar and spelling I am largely indifferent to others errors. I commit a fair amount of gaffs, but those are normally the result of my propensity to type like an elephant, not due to any ignorance of English proper. I have sausages for fingers and if I try to type fast it gets ugly. I will admit that on this blog I spend more time re-reading and spell correcting my comments than actually writing them. I would never want to draw the ire of Pet Peeve. That is a sin only slightly lesser than double-posting. Pet Peeve comments crack me up. The grammar thing is actually an amusing unique feature of this blog and only gets annoying when people actually get riled up fighting about it. I wonder if the Loose/Lose thing is a regional deal. I never saw that anywhere before coming here and a fair amount of people screw that up.
April 30, 2008
#77 said . . .The O-line is looking like they might be able to protect whoever is the starting QB. Forte was a good pick. He brings a lot of value to the offense. And will probably start this year. And his value will double when he gets Cedric fired up and he starts playing like he should be. With both backs playing at high levels, the NFL better watch out! Chicago's 1-2 punch is back! One thing that needs to happen this season is Ron Turner needs to learn how to call plays where Hester can stretch the field. He now needs to be the deep threat like Berrian was. Our "D" will be kicking ass and taking names this year.
April 30, 2008
#78 Pissed Off said . . .Phil, Jwilson and Rancid...all good takes. Today has been fun reading the blog.
Regarding the spelling issue. I am a learned man and feel my spelling is superior, however, this is a blog and I like to type fast. If you want to rip on me for spelling errors, go ahead. My main error you will find over time is the use of "your" instead of "you're." "You're" takes too much time to write when I can just type "your" and it sounds the same! I will attempt to watch my misuse of the word but I really dont care. I realize "your" means, well, "your" and "you're" means "you are," I just dont take the time to type the extra characters.
April 30, 2008
#79 Phil from SATX said . . .#77 was me.
April 30, 2008
#80 Duff Diggler said . . .I really feel like RT is the only huge risk factor on the offense this year. I truly hope the man is following his own off-season training regimen, which requires the following equipment
1) game films from 2007 Bear games
2) a brickAfter each now-should-be-obvious-in-hindsight horrible play call and personnel decision
stop film
slam brick in head
repeat out loud
I am not an animal. I am an NFL offensive coordinator!
It will either fix him or put him on the PUP list (you know which one I'm rooting for)
Rancid, you are dead on about Forte and what it would have meant to the team to do what all the pundits wanted - Forte was the first RB taken in the second round, and would have been the guy we would have taken if we had the first pick of the 2nd and couldn't move down. Time will tell whether he's as good as Jones, Mendenhall, Stewart or McFadden, but there's no doubt he's an elite back in a draft that was very deep in great back prospects. Shouldn't be a stretch to say he could have been a first rounder in other years. Also agree with your comment that this was another two-fer pick - he WILL make Benson work that much harder and improve him.
Fortunately our offensive improvement next year won't be all on Forte - major line improvements in the works and the new all-hands receiver corps. Also, as we count the improvements in hands on the WRs, don't forget about Bradley - he has always had good hands and will be better in that regard than the two we lost. Really looking forward to watching his progression this year - hope he can stay healthy.
April 30, 2008
#81 Phil from SATX said . . .o speling so rong
o how
could
it
b?
yet 1 evnvokd da wrath of
Pet Peeve
me thinks this a blog
free of critiqe'bout
DA (the) BEARS
....
.........
................only now eye see!'Tis a SIN. Yes! A Sin o so rong!
To abuse dis languige....
...had eye nown all along...my DAs would b THEs
my urs your(s) & you're(s)
Please forgiv me as eye scrib
I SWEAR not 2 forget my there, their, and they're(s)
....as eye blog 'bout owr beloved BEARS!
-DD Cummings
April 30, 2008
#82 zisk said . . .Duff, truly excellent. You are a man of many talents, we discover.
April 30, 2008
I always look at the site from work on my phone punctuation is a lot of work
April 30, 2008
Here at DaBearsBlog, you are free to kill us or the Bears as you so wish. You are not free, however, to be an asshole. So if you spew racism or ill-meaning foul language (cursing about football is just fine) or anything of that ilk, your comments ain't gonna last long, jerk.