On the day of Jay (but prior to the signing), I wrote the following:
Getting Cutler isn't a smart move for the Chicago Bears. It is a franchise-altering move. It is the kind of move that changes the identity from top-to-bottom. Halas Hall can shed their label of being cheaper than a street-walker in downtown Atlantic City. The offense can enter into the 2009 with expectations beyond "not screwing things up." Jay Cutler brings hope to an organization that seems to be priming the fan base for another .500 campaign.Think about where we are.
The times they are a' changin. The Bears haven't solved the defensive issues that kept them out of the 2008 postseason. They still look to enter the 2009 season with less experience at wide receiver than anywhere else in the NFL. But in a league where each and every team believes the championship window is twelve months or less, Halas Hall has managed to sell me on the long-term viability of the franchise. I'm excited for 2009. And 2010. 11. 12. Beyond.
There will be fire in Bourbonnais - wide receivers or not. Fire from the earth, scorched by stampeding die-hards eager for a look at the man who comes to serve the dinner. I'm not a religious fella but as a Bears fan - thanks to Jerry Angelo - I feel reborn. He described the energy as a "tsunami". I'd call it an earthquake. The ground has cracked open and may we now hope that years of miserly behavior and bad decisions sink far, far below. Far enough never to be seen again.
Let past regrets be prelude to the future greatness. And bear down, Chicago Bears. Bear down.
#2 BearDown11 said . . .It's so true. The only other time I was this amped for a season to start was the begining of 2007 when I thought we were sure to be repeat performers in the Super Bowl.
Kudos to Jerry Angelo and the Mckasky's for this offseason, our team isn't complete, but it seems that it's at least destined to be exciting.
Now, if Hakeem Nicks or Brian Robskie fall into our laps, I might not sleep until the season starts!
April 17, 2009
#3 Foxtro Tango Packers said . . .I like Hester's emergence last year. he came to play in the last 6 games with a firm grasp of the offense. If that momentum can carry over into training camp, I think he'll be fine. The guy had 50 catches for over 600 yds and only was a real factor in the 2nd half of the season. We know G-reg and Dez will be balls to the wall as usual but I think the key is developing Bennett. Dont sleep on this cat.This guy led the SEC in career receptions in only 3 years so he is capable and athletic. If he gets his head straight, Maybe he'll surprise some cats outside of Chicago.
Its been a long time and a lot of 4 and 5 win seasons since Ive felt this excited about a Bears offense. In fact, I think the last time (not counting 06 when wrecks was hot) was in 93. The offense probably sucked back then but I didnt care. It was my first Bears game . It was in LA against the Rams when Bettis was a rookie. I was crazy excited to see Neal Anderson. Point is.....we have an offense now boys. Something to be proud of. Now we just gotta go out and show it.
April 17, 2009
#4 The UPS Guy said . . .Go Bears!
April 17, 2009
#5 Kumar Gonzorelli said . . .Special delivery to Halas Hall...
http://www.bangcartoon.com/2008/delivery.htm
April 17, 2009
#6 Duff Diggler said . . .The UPS Guy,
That video is HILARIOUS! Must see video!
April 17, 2009
#7 Urlacher FTW said . . .Great vid!!!
April 17, 2009
#8 BDG said . . .I do like Hester, if he can play like he did in New Orleans, it should be a good season. I'm just not sure if the hands will ever be there, he still tries to catch with his arms and chest a lot instead of getting his hands out and snatchng it. He still muffs punts and how long has he been doing that?
I guess my biggest hope is that Bennett and Cutler can re-kindle some of that college chemistry and we actually have our posession receiver and don't know it. Along with the fact that last year I thought we were screwed going in with a rookie 2nd round RB and that turned out pretty amazing. I wish JA would have grabbed up Dawkins in early FA, he's old but would get us through a few years, and in hindsight TO would have been a welcome addition. Think of the improved situation with those 2 alone.
April 17, 2009
#9 Sarcastiholic said . . .LOVE the video thanks for that.
April 17, 2009
#10 Life Without Pants said . . .Quite a different feeling being a Bears fan now as compared to just a couple of months ago, at least in regards to the offense.
I'm still cautiously optimistic that the coaching shakeup will have an effect on the defense and that the changes in offense will also carry over to less time on the field for the defense and forcing teams to become more one-dimensional.
Sacks! I need sacks!
April 17, 2009
#11 Life Without Pants said . . .Couldn't have said it better myself - this isn't a short term thrill, this is the kind of excitement that will carry me, and all of us, for many many years. Hester is a SOLID #2 (I don't care what anyone says - that guy is developing and his speed alone makes him lethal on cross/post routes/go routes. As you have been clamoring for, and I agree - sign Holt and enter into the season with a (solid) defense and an above-average offense. Adding ONE veteran WR will add so much depth to all of the other playmakers - Forte, Hester, Olsen.
Bear down! Is it August yet?
April 17, 2009
#12 Derek said . . .Adding - Cutler and Earl will get something going - I've been a Vandy fan for years and those two were great together. Bennett is a diamond in the rough - he will emerge and you folks will be pleasantly suprised!
April 17, 2009
#13 Derek said . . .The Cutler era is here - these expectations on the kid scare me a little bit. We can live without a WR for now - I am sure we will have an opportunity to find one before the end of the summer. Besides, we can just move Olsen to split end, since his bl0cking is non-existent, and keep Clark on the field more often as a traditional TE.
We really need to address the defense - we did not make the playoffs last year due to glaring holes in our secondary...the coaches claim that that was due to our lack of a pass rush - but regardless of the reason, we need to fix it! Cutler may end up being a great QB, but his sub-500 record in college and pros proves if he doesn't have a stellar defense, his stats don't translate into wins. And if our fans turn on him if we don't make the playoffs next year, I am sure he will make a play to move out of town. And that would be the worst use of 2 first round picks in the history of the NFL. (Besides David Terrell and Cedric Benson)
Go Bears! But let's get Ken Lucas or another DB we can rely on in a Bears uniform, and maybe experiment with our LBs to make sure they can add some pressure next season!
April 17, 2009
#14 Who's Laughing Now said . . .By the way, if we draft a wide receiver in the 2nd round while either of the top two safety prospects are still on the board, I will be sick. I am not interested in watching a 4500 yard QB lead us to 7 wins. But I would be excited to see 3500 yards from the QB, 1800 all-purpose yards from Forte, and an aging defense get rejuvenated by investing some of our high draft picks into our holes on D to get some youth ready to play over the next couple of years.
April 17, 2009
#15 O-Line wins games said . . .Love the optimism. WANT to join in BUT I still need to see some additions. Does JA still have some tricks up his sleeve? WR. SS. I want to believe!
April 17, 2009
#16 Albert in Tucson said . . .13- I agree, Robiskie and Britt have shot up boards and will not be there when we pick.
We really need to look at FS rather than the 7th or 8th best WR in the draft. FS is probably our weakest position on defense and we sign Bullocks...WTF? We could probably get the number 1 or 2 rated FS in the draft at 49. Delmas looks good but it scares me that he played in the shitty MAC, might be Manning all over again coming from a smaller school. They say Delmas compares to Tyrell Johnson from the Vikings. I like Delmas, he delivers huge hits and is good in coverage and against the run. Johnson also looks good and played elite competition. Moore and Chung will probably also be there but they are more likely to play SS.
I say take Delmas or Johnson and then go WR in the 3rd and with one of the later picks.
April 17, 2009
#17 do said . . .LOL. Thanks, UPS. I am busily forwarding that link other Bear fans.
I am sure I have said this before, but it "bears" repeating. I have been seriously following the Bears since 1964. I remember hearing the end of the Detroit game in 1963 but then did not watch or listen to the Championship game. The first event in MY Bears' history? Running back, Willie Galimore and Receiver, Bo Farrington (both in the prime of their careers) are killed in an automobile accident during traing camp. I watched the careers of Sayers and Butkus SQUANDERED on otherwise mediocre teams. Saw Hall of Fame tight end MIKE "George Halas throws nickels around like they were manhole covers" DITKA " exiled to Philadelphia in a contract dispute. Then came THE ABE GIBRON years. The BOBBY DOUGLASS years The BOB AVELLINI years. Then, at last, the JIM FINKS years, punctuated by 1985. But, alas, Papa Bear dies and then come THE MICHAEL McCASKEY years. Ew. Then WANNY, and JURONSTADT. Ouch. This franchise traded away BOBBY LAYNE who became aHall-of Famer, and they CUT GEORGE BLANDA ,also a Hall of Famer. Meanwhile they stuck their own fans with the likes of QBs (in no particular order) named Jack Concannon, Kent Nix, Larry Rakestraw, Joe Barnes, Gary Huff, Mike Phipps, John Huarte, Vince Evans, Rusty Lisch, Peter Tom Willis, Henry Burris, Craig Krenzel, Chad Hutchinson, Will Furrer, Shane Matthews, Steve Stenstrom and MOSES Moreno. When a guy named MOSES can't lead you to the promised land, you KNOW you're in trouble.
Folks, the last time the Chicago Bears made a deal of this magnitude was......NEVER......EVER!
Mega deals for the Chicago Bears? Jay Cutler. That's it. That's the list.April 17, 2009
#18 Max said . . .I agree that we should take a FS in the 2nd round. I think a FS could have a bigger impact on the team this year.
Of course if the team thinks that Bowman will be a stud (they have seen him practice) then I would be fine with them taking a WR. However if they plan on anyone other than Bowman starting at FS then that is the position they should address.
April 17, 2009
#19 Urlacher FTW said . . .First off: NO! NO GOD DAMN IT!! This move by Angelo was a bold one. I will give him that. He went out and got the player he wanted and he showed balls by risking so much and I will give him props for that. But I am not ready to get down on my knees and kiss his ass as the greatest GM ever.
Now I know you guys are not saying he is the greatest GM, but the Jerry Angelo love fest has to stop. He has blown so many drafts. He has made crappy moves in free agency. He has done nothing positive for this team in his entire tenure up until now.
It angers me. It is like a QB throwing 6 straight interceptions and then gets lucky and hits a receiver for an 80 yard TD.
God... And I think that if we do not sign a legit receiver in free agency, we have to use our second rounder on one as opposed to a safety. That is just me.
Bear Down
on a more positive side, me feelings on Cutler a week later
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/157290-the-chicago-bears-let-the-healing-begin-please
April 17, 2009
#20 LeFleur said . . .Good read Max, I pretty much feel exactly the same way about Boldin. But if Cutler ends up being as good as advertised then it was a good move. There are more great WRs around than great QBs.
Seeing Harrison walk away quietly into the night is kind of.. odd. Seems like lately all the really good wideouts end up playing a few years even after they are pretty much done. I think Rice ended up the Seahawks number 3 guy before he chose to hang it up and Tim Brown convinced Oakland to bring him back way after his prime but Marvin seems content to just go.
I would think a guy like Holt or Harrison would really want to come here now that we have a QB. I would be fine with FS or WR in the second. Hopefully they address both spots by the 3rd.April 17, 2009
#21 Fresno,CA BEAR FAN said . . .Max, you're wrong on JA. He didn't get lucky. He put his balls on the line.He hasn't succeeded -- he's put himself out there to succeed or fail based on what Cutler does. You don't suck as a GM and get your team to the Super Bowl. His drafts and his coaching hire produced a 2006 version of the Monsters of the Midway. HE LED US BACK TO THE SUPER BOWL, MAN, GIVE THE DUDE SOME CREDIT. He legendarily has whiffed on finding offensive talent, especially at QB1. Either he's now, finally, got his man, or he doesn't. Either way, he stuck his balls out there.
April 17, 2009
#22 Max said . . .I am planning to go to the 49er vs Bears game in San Fran.....I live in Northern Cali...alot of 49er fans are saying that i will get jumped and they will fuck with me...do you think i should be worry about that cause i plan to take my son who is a bear fan and my wife who is a 49er fan......
April 17, 2009
#23 Urlacher FTW said . . .LeFluer, did I not say I gave him props for the move? Cause I am pretty sure I did. I admitted it was ballsy. But just in case you missed it, I will say it again
"Jerry, I give you props for making this move. You finally took a gamble on a position we have needed for a long time and I respect you for it."
That said, he still sucks. He has had a knack for making later round picks produce but thats it. He cannot make a pick when it comes to a blue chipper. I stand by what I said that this move does not forgive all the other screw ups he has been apart of.
April 17, 2009
#24 BDG said . . .Fresno most of if not all that is just talk. If you are truly worried take a can of pepper spray; it will take the fight right out of anyone and you don't even get dirty. My wife and I both carry it on keychains and I keep one in each car, it is the best stuff ever.
I doubt you'll have to worry though, the area around Sox field in Chicago is a bad part of town but for an hour on either side of game time it becomes miraculously clean and crime free. The city has a vested interest in removing any reason a fan wouldn't want to attend a sporting event. I mean at Soldier Field, I saw a guy get thrown out for cursing at a Packer fan and throwing a punch will get you a life time ban. It is also a family event, that stuff won't be tolerated.
April 17, 2009
#25 Fresno,CA BEAR FAN said . . .You've fucking lost your marbles on the whole JA sucks thing. Do you remember the teams we had prior to him coming here? Seems to me they consistently blew high draft picks didn't make major FA moves and rarely had the success JA has had in the later rounds.
In other news the Eagles have lost some ammo and maybe the chance to get Boldin. They just traded for Peters from Buffalo. They still have another 1st rounder so I wouldn't completely eliminate them but that would be two huge contract extensions they would need to come up with. I still don't think we have any chance to acquire Boldin and would not be willing to give up the rest of our picks or any future 1st rounders to get him but I know some of you doApril 17, 2009
#26 BDG said . . .max- every GM goes through this process...its not just JA..every team deals with draft picks that end up to be busts....JA has screwed up but what GM out there hasnt..
April 17, 2009
#27 Frank Schoenburg said . . .Rashan Salaam, Curtis Enis, David Terrel not JA picks. Lot's of GM's miss on 1st rounders you just know more about the current GM for our team because it's fresh in your memory.
April 17, 2009
#28 Vizzini said . . .Just bought a Cutler jersey. Bear Down!
April 17, 2009
#29 Urlacher FTW said . . .So I made my own Bears mock draft. Let me know what you think.
#49-Duke Robinson. He will help the Bears be a dominate running team, which will help Cutler more than a WR that will take years to develop. I would love to see them be able to run at will on teams. Then have Cutler unleash the cannon on the play action to Hester.
#99-Brandon Williams. A productive DE should help the secondary. This guy has all the tools and would become better under Rod.
#119-Mike Mickens. He looks solid in zone and man. A little undersized but still a good 4th round pick.
#140-David Bruton. He could go earlier but I wouldn't look at him until now.
#150-Aaron Kelly. 6'-4" with great hands.
#190-DeAndre Levy. Hillenmeyer was hurt and isn't good when covering TE's. Roach should stick to ST and being a back up.
#246-Greg Orton. If he had better speed he would rocket up the board.
#251-Brannan Southerland. He is a good FB that can catch and block.April 17, 2009
#30 Vizzini said . . .Vizz - I don't know about many guys that are projected out of the first 2 rounds so I can only speak to pick number 49 on your list. Problems I would have with that pick are:
1.) Garza is a more capable starter at his position than Hester or Bullocks. Especially Bullocks, and that would make 4/5 of our Oline brand new, doesn't sound great. So I would be a bit surprised if they addressed a line spot here even if he was there.
2.) I think that monster will be the first guard off the board so I dunno that he makes to us anyway.April 17, 2009
#31 Max said . . .Urlacher-I don't entirely disagree with you, but I have different priorities. This is all hypothetical so I'm just going by who's still around by other peoples boards. I would like to see the Bears get a starting FS and a #1 WR, I just didn't see it with the position of the picks.
I think Hester will pan out as a good WR this year. I also believe that Bennett will step up and be a useful contributer for the team.
To me they need a tall WR for jump balls and redzone plays. So with Britt and the rest of the top guys gone they can still get that later. They could even pick up Barden if they want to use a higher pick then I did.
FS-I know they need someone BAD, but I see players that could be had later in the draft that could still contribute. If someone good drops than great.
Garza has been playing on borrowed time. If I remember right, he went in to get his knee scoped and they couldn't find the ligaments they had repaired.
That with the Kreutz problem and needing an OT in a few years, I thought why not just get a OG this year, then a C next year, and a RT the next.
I suppose they could do the FA thing like usual but this is just a scenario. Plus, who's to say what they need will be available at what cost.
April 17, 2009
#32 jeff said . . .So since the GM before Angelo was worse means that Angelo himself isnt bad?
Ok, maybe I am being to critical. But he has not been a good GM. Show me where he has proven to be worth his salary. Ok, Cutler was a bold move and I respect that. Forte and Berrian were good third round pick ups, fine. Hester was a gem. . . Now what?
Terrell, Enis and Salaam were not his. But Rex was... and Michael Haynes, and Cedric Benson, and Tank Johnson.
And last I checked, we drafted two return men in the second round a couple years ago when we picked up Dev and Manning.
Moose was his signing. Kordell Stewart was his signing. So was Jonathon Quinn, Craig Krenzel, and Chad Hutchinson (Shoot Burris was signed in 2002, but that coulda been Hatley).
He has not been that good. Our most recent first round pick, Williams, had back problems and we still selected him. And then he missed most of the season.
Angelo has not been a good GM. Maybe this Cutler move was a sign of good things to come, and I hope it is, I hope this is the start of a new JA... but I am not holding my breath.
April 17, 2009
#33 Willie from Chicago said . . .max, here's the thing.
since jerry angelo had the full powers of general manager following the 2003 season (jauron had player control previously)....
the bears went
5-11
11-5 - division title, playoffs
13-3 - division title, sb appearance
7-9
9-745-37 and two division titles and two playoff wins, sb appearance
......in the ten years previous
68-92 and one division title and one playoff win
i don't know what to make of those numbers but they sure make him look like he's doing okay, comparatively.
April 17, 2009
#34 Willie from Chicago said . . .Jeff, in the 2 years Ive been posting on this blog, I have to say dude, this is rthe best post Ive read from you. And thats a hard thing to say, because you have interesting posts every week. Good Job dude!
April 17, 2009
#35 Murph said . . .Lol, Jeff, i made the same comparison when the people on this blog were saying that we should fire Lovie.
April 17, 2009
#36 Willie from Chicago said . . .Fresno Fan, I was in San Fran last Oct. for the Eagles game against the niners. If the fans didnt mess with those Philly fans, whom I say totally live up to their reputation, I think youll be fine. Acr0ss the bay in Oakland another story. Some of the nicest fans Ive come across are the Titans fans and its a great place to see a game.
April 17, 2009
#37 Max said . . .Man, it’s a great time to be a sports fan for me. The Bears have Cutler and are a contender again, the Blackhawks have won their first playoff game, the Bulls are in the playoffs, the Cubs are on their way to a 3rd consecutive playoff appearance and another shot at a world series (sorry to all you sox fans), and The MIAMI HEAT are going to the playoffs after only winning 15 games the prior year (I’m going to be attending game 3 in Miami).
BEAR DOWN!
GO BEARS
GO CUBS
GO BLACKHAWKS
GO BULLS
GO HEAT!
April 17, 2009
#38 LaFluer said . . .Ok Jeff. Good point and nice show with the numbers, you do have me there...
But correct me if I am wrong, I am pretty sure just about every blue blooded bear fan was calling for Angelo's head, for many of the same reasons I just put down, just 2 or 3 weeks ago (and that was before Cutler was supposed to be on the trading block, so we cannot try and disguise Angelos lack of offseason moves on being focused on Cutler).
So this one single trade has moved him from public enemy No. 1 to football genuis? I realize the signifcance of this move for the organization but one move does not make, or to be fair break, any GM; it is a collective work.
And it is hard to argue with the numbers, but I think more along the lines of how much better could we have been if Angelo had done a better job. But it would seem I am in the minority on this, so I'll let just it go.
Or i guess i should say, ill bear down.
April 17, 2009
#39 LaFluer said . . .To Max ... What has JA done ... Hired Smith, who built a defense. No, a DEFENSE. Tommie. Tillman. Hester. Even Vasher, who used to be good before he stunk.
April 17, 2009
#40 BDG said . . .Briggs? Did he draft Briggs? Anderson. Brought in Idonje.
April 17, 2009
#41 BDG said . . .Exactly Jeff. That's my point right there. We have improved dramatically since JA has taken over. All of the FA signing (except Moose) were low cost low risk moves. Granted before this he hasn't made major moves to improve us quickly, but he has put us in a position to be very competitive year in and year out. He has hit on a lot more picks than that too.
2002 4/9 productive nfl players
1. Columbo 1st
2. Terrence Metcalf 3rd
3. Alex Brown 4th
4. Adrian Peterson 6th
2003 6/12 productive nfl players
1.Rex Grossman 1st
2.Charles Tillman 2nd
3.Lance Briggs 3rd
4.Ian Scott 4th
5.Bobby Wade 5th
6.Justin Gage 5th
2004 4/8 productive nfl players
1.Tommie Harris 1st
2.Terry Johnson 2nd
3.Bernard Berrian 3rd
4.Nathan Vasher 4th
2005 4/6 productive nfl players
1.Cedric Benson 1st
2.Mark Bradley 2nd
3.Kyle Orton 4th
4.Chris Harris 6th
2006 5/7 productive nfl players I would say 2006-2008 is incomplete because we don't have enough info but this is how I see it
1.Danieal Manning 2nd
2.Devin Hester 2nd
3.Dusty Dvoracek 3rd
4.Jamar Williams 4th
5.Mark Anderson 5th
2007 6/9
1.Greg Olsen 1st
2.Garrett Wolfe 3rd
3.Josh Beekman 4th
4.Kevin Payne 5th
5.Corey Graham 5th
6.Trumaine McBride 7th
2008 7/12
1.Chris Williams 1st
2.Matt Forte 2nd
3.Earl Bennett 3rd
4.Marcus Harrison 3rd
5.Craig Steltz 4th
6.Zackary Bowman 5th
7.Kellen Davis 5th
Sure JA has had some horrible picks fact is ALL GM's do. But you have to look at the whole picture and give him credit for some of the STEALS he has made. Unfortunately alot of the picks also had to go somewhere else to get a chance to play, but that also says something about the depth he maintains here.
Look I don't think JA is god never did before Cutler and I won't now. I just think we have made steady progress since he got here and for that I'm thankful.
April 17, 2009
#42 BDG said . . .Sorry I was working on all that Bull shit while you said you'd drop it haha
April 17, 2009
#43 jeff said . . .Fuck it GO BEARS
April 17, 2009
#44 Duff Diggler said . . .i'm actually a jerry fan and i think drafting is an absolute crap shoot. i'm not a lovie fan because i know what bellichick would do with our defensive roster.
April 17, 2009
#45 Fresno,CA BEAR FAN said . . .Jay throws out the first pitch and sings the seventh inning stretch at tomorrows cubs game!!! its on fox.
April 18, 2009
#46 Fresno,CA BEAR FAN said . . .Max- your right about we wanted his head because for a minute he wasnt making anymoves to improve this team...but now that he went out and got us a PROBOWL QB.. he is in good favor.....we dont say he is a god and is the best GM in the game but out of anyother GM in the NFL today he is the one who got us the biggest improvement this year out of anyother team.....I mean cmon MAX he got us a PROBOWL QB!
April 18, 2009
#47 Shady said . . .and he also got us one of the best Dline Coaches in the game.....
April 18, 2009
#48 Phantom One said . . .I think we'll find out a bit more if the coaching really makes a difference.
Plus, are you really sold on Marinelli?
Do you still believe in LOVEie?
April 18, 2009
#49 Phantom One said . . .One thing about JA that often goes overlooked is that even when he is wrong his decision was right. Here are a few examples to chew on:
Lovie's first year he brought in Terry Shea to run the offense. Terry Shea asked to bring in his QB, Johnathan Quinn, and JA obliged. He trusted his OC and got burned...
When Thomas Jones (the first Bear in an eternity to rush for 1200 yards in consecutive seasons) went in for a visit to request a trade, JA obliged because TJ earned the right to be the starter somewhere in this league...
When JA said that we will "take care of our own" he meant it - and we now have a locker room full of guys who have had their pay day (Peanut, Vasher, Harris, Briggs, Urlacher, Brown, Hester) even though some of them have not lived up to it.
JA's brain is fully engaged in building this club, and if you fool yourself into thinking he is not worthy of our support, then we are destined to have a GM who would trade the 11th pick in the draft for Rick Mirer (1997)
April 18, 2009
#50 shonbear said . . .In short: everyone makes bad decisions, but not everyone has their decision making process as dialed in as he does. With one exception (extending Lovie's contract, which I think came from higher anyway, maybe Phillips or Virginia) he separates himself from his emotions, and makes very well reasoned decisions in a very disciplined way. The complexity of which are not only football related, but also business related.
It is no mistake that our draft choices are usually the first ones signed because he knows the market better then most.
April 18, 2009
#51 Duff Diggler said . . .I'd like to talk about DH for just a second. It's no doubt that he improved greatly with Kyle, getting more comfy with the playbook, being on the field more and so on. My imagination is running wild with fantasies that he will be so inspired by having a big time QB that can set him up for the ultimate spike that he will try harder with more inspiration and motivation. That will in turn set him at ease knowing that his production is more where he feels his contribution is worthy. This will set his overthinking mind to perform as he is capable of on special teams again. He will be the double threat that we all envisioned was possible. Proving that the dual hat wasn't too much for him.
This QB scenario is vital for his development in all his responsibilities. He won't know what to do when a ball is put into his hands with pinpoint accuracy and he doesn't have to wait for it or break stride to make the catch, then thinking, now comes the hit.
In addition, this training camp will only have one QB taking all the snaps fot the Number one offense and it will help whatever receivers we have because they won't have two different style QB's throwing to them during camp. This would have also been the case if it had been Kyle this year and would have helped.
It will be interesting to seee our boy roy or whoever can get some training camp footage this year that was there last year to see the difference in skill level from the receivers and QB's.
This will help the WR's TE's OL and center. One QB to run the show, one voice, one leader. No change change change. They will be ONE SOLID UNIT (I said unit) come the September 13th thrashing of the Pakcers in their house.
Speaking of that, I'd like to see a solid performance from the offense and Jay Cutler, but I'm more interested in the Defense and MF getting all the credit for a win their. If they look spectacular in game one, then the four letter word station is going to get all over the Bears privates and I would rather methodically, consistantly gain wins under the radar rather than have everybody pull a Titans like OMG the Titans are the best ever blah blah blah.
Bear down D, take the game back. Offense take advantage of every turnover opportunity they give you and put it away. then run the clock out with a little F, G and J.
This is my dream and if we were to pick up a Tory Holt or Boldin it would become a lot more feasible, but I really think we are going to see improvement from our receivers and (lotta love Kyle), but a decrease in productivity from the Denver WR corps. That's my case.
Haven't posted in awhile, but reading everyday. Gotta love the Jay trade, that's enough juice to push me to the draft and the draft to the camps and ultimately August. Enjoy summer fellas, time is drawing near, when the NBA and NHL is done with their seson like playoffs we are right there!
April 18, 2009
#52 BDG said . . .all this talk about WRs and the secondary. Our success this season is more dependent on the DLs performance than anything else.
OL is much better
QB is legendary
RB is golden
WR ....managable
TE stellarLBs are stout
DBs have something to prove, plus i'd imagine we'd get at least one more in the draft. But they could really use some help from the DL
DL these guys need to step up and make some playsDvorchek needs to stay healthy
Harris needs to stay %100
Wale needs to get back to 06 form
Brown did well, but could use a few more sacks
Anderson needs to produce or go away
Harrison needs to develope (which he is)Marinelli may be the catalyst. But to me, DL was our most blaring weakness last year.... ALL YEAR.... I can't even remember how many times they almost got to the QB, but almost doesn't do shit after about 2.5 seconds after the snap. They need to get pressure. They need to get sacks. They need Lovie to call the right fuckin plays. BDG has a great point in letting our LBs get running starts into blitzes instead of starting everyone on the line (and then blitz or go into coverage).
Therefore, UFA WR or not, I OFFICIALLY SUBMIT MY BID for the Bears draft a DE with the 49th overall. This DE class is DEEP AS FUCK, but they're gonna go fast! I'll take any of these guys...
1. Brian Orakpo, Texas
Height: 6-3. Weight: 263.
Projected 40 Time: 4.66.
Combine 40 Time: 4.70.
Benchx225: 31. Vertical: 39.5. Broad: 10-10.
Projected Round (2009): Top 7 Pick.2. Aaron Maybin, Penn State
Height: 6-4. Weight: 253.
Projected 40 Time: 4.61.
Combine 40 Time: 4.89.
Pro Day 40 Time: 4.59.
Benchx225: 22. Vertical: 40.5.
Projected Round (2009): Top 15 Pick.3. Everette Brown, Florida State
Height: 6-2. Weight: 256.
Projected 40 Time: 4.60.
Combine 40 Time: 4.73.
Pro Day 40 Time: DNP.
Benchx225: 26. Vertical: 31.5.
Projected Round (2009): Top 15 Pick.4. Tyson Jackson, LSU
Height: 6-4. Weight: 295.
Projected 40 Time: 4.85.
Combine 40 Time: 4.91.
Pro Day 40 Time: DNP.
Benchx225: 20. Vertical: 28.5.
Projected Round (2009): 1.5. Michael Johnson, Georgia Tech
Height: 6-7. Weight: 266.
Projected 40 Time: 4.63.
Combine 40 Time: 4.75.
Pro Day 40 Time: 4.59.
Benchx225: 28. Vertical: 38.5.
Projected Round (2009): 1.6. Robert Ayers, Tennessee
Height: 6-3. Weight: 272.
Projected 40 Time: 4.73.
Combine 40 Time: 4.89.
Benchx225: 18. Vertical: .
Projected Round (2009): 1.7. Connor Barwin, Cincinnati
Height: 6-4. Weight: 256.
Projected 40 Time: 4.60.
Combine 40 Time: 4.66.
Pro Day 40 Time: 4.47.
Benchx225: 23. Vertical: 41.5.
Projected Round (2009): 1-2.8. Larry English, Northern Illinois
Height: 6-3. Weight: 251.
Projected 40 Time: 4.70.
Combine 40 Time: 4.90.
Pro Day 40 Time: 4.70.
Benchx225: 36. Vertical: .
Projected Round (2009): 1-2.9. Paul Kruger, Utah
Height: 6-4. Weight: 263.
Projected 40 Time: 4.64.
Combine 40 Time: 4.90.
Pro Day 40 Time: 4.79.
Benchx225: 24. Vertical: 32.5.
Projected Round (2009): 2.I like Jackson and Ayers myself, but count 'em. Nine. Nine 1-2nd round DEs. Whereas with any other possition (FS, WR, CB) we keep saying things like "if he falls to us" or "if he's still on the board." Think about it....
April 18, 2009
#53 Shady McDraft Fan said . . .Duff,
I agree that DL improvement is vital to our success. That being said I think S, and WR would be much more logical with our first pick #49.
First they are more pressing needs for this year than DE because no matter who we draft they won't be replacing Brown. Gun or Anderson yet. Brown is one of the top DE's all-around in the league IMO, and Gun and Anderson are in their contract years. Since they are the Bears will want to give them every chance possible to see if they are worth retaining.Also I feel the value of the WR's or S's available at #49 will be greater than that of DE. I think 1 of the top 3 safeties should be there and 8-9 for WR which would be a very productive Robiskie or Iglasies I believe. I think the only DE's you mentioned that might possibly be available there are Barwin, English and Kruger. Barwin and English are better suited to be LB's in a 3-4 from what I've read and Kruger looks like he would be another Bazuin. Great college production but not a great pro. If you watch the highlights of him at Utah he gets ALOT of help from the rest of his d-line. They were constantly getting pressure and he just happen to be there on quite a few of the plays I looked at.
This is just my opinion. I think we take the S first if one of the top three are there and go WR and DE or CB with our next 2-4 picks.
The only exception would be if Ayers or Michael Johnson were to somehow fall through to us. I heard the Bears were very interested in Ayers but I doubt he lasts because alot of teams have been talking about him. Just a side note. The Bears have been linked to DE Henry Melton from Texas. I don't know if you remember him but he was the MONSTER RB texas had when Vince Young was there. He switched to DE and has ALOT of upside. He could double as our short yardage back (haha)
Last thing I think JA and CO. were making a statement about our d-line needs and how we are going to approach it by saying Marinelli was our biggest free-agent signing. I believe with him and some tweaks to the scheme we will get much better production from our D-line this year, plus when teams are trailing us by 20 pts. lol because of Cutler they will have to take deeper drops to look down field more giving us more time to get to their QBApril 18, 2009
#54 jeff said . . .Duff, I totally understand where you're coming from. The D-Line was inconsistent at best last year and struggled to pressure or sack opposing QB's. Most of the time on 3rd and long, it didn't matter who the Bears had in their secondary because the time the D-Line allowed the WRs to get open and the QB to look down field was long enough for any QB/WR to connect for a long pass. So yes, a marked improvement in our D-Line is necessary to bring this unit back to it's 2006 Championship form. Another reason for drafting a D-Lineman is because football games are won and lost in the renches, and because the Bears rotate so many lineman on D, drafting a guy who can get an opportunity to make some plays could really have a big impact on the Bears 2009 defense.
That being said, by the time the Bears select at 49, most if not all of the elite D-Lineman will be off the board. The two guys I see who might interest the Bears are Lawrence Sidbury Jr, and Jarron Gilbert when the Bears select in the 2nd round, but most if not all of the other guys you mentioned will most likely be off the board. Will I be upset if the go d-line a 49? Of course not, but I feel that there will most likely be more value at the CB/S position, and those positions happen to be ones where the Bears are seriously lacking depth.
Shonbear, good to see you're posting again, you always bring some great insight to our Bears. I agree I'd like this team to regain it's dominant defense again. Realistically, if the Bears are going to go deep into the playoffs next year, it's still going top be on the defense to get the big stop and to get Cutler the ball. The best thing that can happen to this team next year is the reemergence of a top 5 defense and the ability of Jay Cutler to kick ass (how do you like that analysis?) in the 3rd and 4th quarters.
Big day of Chicago sports today, wanted to get my post in before it becomes much more difficult to type and think coherently after a few cold ones.
Bear down Chicago sports fans.
April 18, 2009
#55 O-Line wins games said . . .i'll tell you this. with reports everywhere that no one wants to give up a 1 and 3 for boldin, perhaps the bears can sneak in with a 2 and 3. they have the cap in the future to give him the contract he desires.
April 18, 2009
#56 O-Line wins games said . . .Mock Draft 2.0 (Scouting strengths taken from NFL Draft Countdown)
49. Louis Delmas, FS, Western Michigan, Height: 5-113/8 | Weight: 202
Very tough and physical...Excellent instincts and awareness...Does an outstanding job against the run...Will deliver the big hit...Very smooth with good range...Has the ability to match up in coverage...Active and is always around the action...Decent hands and ball skills...Very productive...Hard worker...Has a lot of experience...True team leader.99. Ramses Barden, WR, Cal Poly, Height: 6-6 | Weight: 229
Great height and outstanding bulk...Excellent athleticism...Real strong and physical...Good leaper with terrific ball skills...Runs with some power...Has a nose for the endzone...Decent blocker...Intelligent with solid intangibles. Extremely productive and was dominant at his level.119. Christoper Owens, CB, San Jose State, Height: 5-93/4 | Weight: 181
Pretty good speed and quickness with a burst...Excellent instincts and awareness...Real tough for his size...Very aggressive...Willing in run support...Decent hands and ball skills...Durable...A ton of experience.140. Brandon Williams, DE, Texas Tech, Height: 6-21/2 | Weight: 261
Excellent athleticism...Great explosion with a burst...Nice agility and balance...Very quick off the snap...Can really bend off the edge...Does a nice job in pursuit. .Good range...Pretty productive...Still has upside.154. Sammie Lee Hill, DT, Stillman, Height: 6-37/8 | Weight: 329
Outstanding size and bulk...Long arms...Very strong and powerful...A good athlete...Quick and agile...Stout at the point of attack...Can push the pocket...Nice hand use...Occupies multiple blockers...Productive.191. Quinn Johnson, FB, LSU, Height: 6-03/4 | Weight: 246
Excellent size and bulk...A dominating lead blocker...Powerful ball carrier...Very physical and aggressive...Terrific special teamer...Has some potential as a goaline specialist ...Team player... Top intangibles.246. Deon Butler, WR, Penn State, Height: 5-103/8 | Weight: 182
Great athlete...Excellent speed...Quick and explosive with a burst...Is very elusive...Reliable hands...A decent route runner...Tough and will work the middle...Smart with good awareness...Has lots of experience.251. Mortty Ivy, LB, West Virginia, Height: 6-11/2 | Weight: 248
Good athleticism...Nice instincts...Reads and reacts quickly...Has a nose for the ball...Real tough...Good strength...Smooth and fluid in coverage...Is able to take on and shed blockers...Decent hands and ball skills...Has shown some potential as a pass rusher...Doesn't get caught up in traffic...A team leader...Is intense and competitive...Productive.
April 18, 2009
#57 O-Line wins games said . . .http://draftguys.com/index.php/articles/dgtv_1/chris_owens_video/
April 18, 2009
#58 O-Line wins games said . . .http://draftguys.com/index.php/articles/dgtv_1/deon_butler_-_wr_-_penn_state/
April 18, 2009
#59 Shady said . . .http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLMppXE97kE
Quinn needs to be a Bear, he is nasty and loves to hit, plays with a LB mentality.Sorry for all the posts, wouldn't let me put more than one video per post.
April 18, 2009
#60 O-Line wins games said . . .That mock draft rocks, but no offensive lineman?
April 18, 2009
#61 BDG said . . .59 - Yeah, I know it's blasphemy considering my handle.
April 18, 2009
#62 Fresno,Ca BEAR FAN said . . .I'm liking Quinn Johnson. I'd rather get Tony Fiametta from Cuse but I think if we do draft a FB it is more likely we will get Quinn seeing how JA and Co. have a love affair from anyone from a Louisiana school. I would like to get one of them in round 5-6 and let them replace McKie. I never understood why the Bears drafted J.D. Runnels a couple years ago and traded for Bryan Johnson, but after they didn't work out they kinda have just given up trying to upgrade the position. I would like to see this happen this year to pair Forte with a great young blocker for the foreseeable future
April 18, 2009
#63 BDG said . . .I brought this up about a week ago..but nobody paid any attention to it........yea we need to upgrade our FB...mckie Cant Catch! Cant Block!...if anything he just gets in Forte's way...we need a big time Blocker at our FB...think how much more yards Forte would of had last year if he had a Good FB in front of him.......
April 18, 2009
#64 Max said . . .Unrestricted free agent wide receiver Torry Holt is on the verge of signing with the Jacksonville Jaguars, according to Chris Mortensen of ESPN.com.
April 18, 2009
#65 Max said . . .What? you guys didnt like the FB dive for no gain that Turner called at least once game? I think McKie was perfect for it...
That said, FB, while I agree needs to be upgraded, should only be addressed after receiver and safety help.
April 18, 2009
#66 BDG said . . .D.J. Hackett! Brandon Lloyd! Anyone not named Moose. Please
April 18, 2009
#67 Vizzini said . . .Oh 4 sure MAX,
There are only 2-3 FB's that will get drafted period. Fiametta, Quin Johnson and maybe Brennan Sutherland. We won't touch any till atleast 5th round most likely try to land one of them in the 6th,7th or even undrafted FA. That is if JA thinks we need an upgrade. But I agree you can't even look at them unless you address S, WR, DE, and CB before. One of the young FB's would be more of a luxury than a need in this draft. I thought they would make a run at Mike Karney when he was available but oh well.April 18, 2009
#68 O-Line wins games said . . .Quinn Johnson would be awesome, but JA doesn't like the FB position. So I don't see them drafting early enough to get him.
O-Line wins games-nice draft. Just out of couriosity are you liking Owens as a nickel corner? Also do you think he will be available in a later round?
You could get Mike Mickens at 119. Just a thought.
April 18, 2009
#69 Grade Schooler said . . .Viz- Yeah, Mickens is one of the top cover corners, I think he would be a great pick but a lot of the stuff I have looked at has him going in the mid 3rd.
Coye Francies, Owens' teammate, is a nice corner as well but I think he goes early in the 4th.
I think Owens could definitely start at nickel and probably challenge for a starting spot his second year, especially if Vasher is still a starter.
Here is some more info I found on Owens:
"Looks and plays a lot bigger than his frame indicates. Displays great read-and-react ability in Cover 2 and consistently breaks on the ball. Possesses the smooth, compact footwork that allows him to explode out of his breaks toward the ball. Has a second gear and can really close in a hurry. Plays aggressively and shows the toughness to fight for the ball and tackle in the run game."
April 19, 2009
#70 NY Bears Fan said . . .I'm 69
April 19, 2009
#71 Vizzini said . . .I really feel that Bennett is going to have a break out year. From watching videos of him he seems to have the physical talent for the position but his ability to comprehend the playbook held him back last year. The playbook is not getting any simpler but he has had a lot more time to understand it. Having the existing experience with Cutler should help him a lot.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pDRIjZlJsAA
I am more worried about the defensive side that the receiver position at this point.
April 19, 2009
#72 NY Bears Fan said . . .O-Line wins games -I just was thinking Mickens because I saw on a couple of sites, him going in the fourth aound the 125th pick.
He had a knee injury that should spook a few teams.Owens looks like a good CB, and likely an upgrade over Manning. I just don't know if they draft a nickel CB when they have devoted the spot to Manning. He may turn into a starting CB, I just can't get passed his height. It makes me nervous thinking of 5'-9" CB covering WR that may be 6'-6".Who knows, I'm no expert.
April 19, 2009
#73 BDG said . . .Fun video to watch of the QBs in action. From that angle the down field throws are pretty impressive. Cutler has such a quick release.
http://www.chicagobears.com/multimedia/multimediapopup.asp?mm_file_id=1412&play_clip=Y&rn=7
April 19, 2009
#74 Fresno,CA BEAR FAN said . . .Break out? A catch would be a break out haha just kidding. Well kind of. I agree I think Bennett will be a very solid and valuable member of the offense this year regardless of who we draft and or sign
April 19, 2009
#75 Idonije said . . .BULLS WIN!
CUBS WIN!April 19, 2009
#76 Fresno,CA BEAR FAN said . . .#72 that was a great link, thanks.
April 19, 2009
#77 Foxtrot Tango Packers said . . .not being rude but Earl Bennet is kinda "SLOW" Minded..if you know what i mean..like if you hear him talk..he sounds like he is DUMB...but I believe he will have a break out season this year...
April 19, 2009
#78 Urlacher FTW said . . .very true, but who cares how he talks, as long as he catches the ball. thats all that matters.
April 19, 2009
#79 Fresno,CA BEAR FAN said . . .Jeff- We can not trade our 3rd round pick. It is a compensatory pick and untradeable.
April 19, 2009
#80 Shady said . . .I would love for the bears to get boldin but realistically c'mon....we wont get him so why are we still talking about him.....
April 19, 2009
#81 john said . . .Wow, what a great Saturday for Chicago sports.
Bulls Win.
Cubs Win.
Sox win (who cares).
Hawks win.
There are some great years to come with youngsters like Derrick Rose, Matt Forte, Patrick Kane and Jonathon Toews making careers here in Chicago!
April 19, 2009
#82 Max said . . .i was thinking abouth the terrible position we have been in for the last couple ofyears and i thought you guys would get a kick out of this little reminder...
"Chris Harris was traded to the Carolina Panthers on August 2, 2007 for a 2008 5th round draft pick(Zachary Bowman). Harris started 15 games in 2007 with finishing with 101 tackles with 8 forced fumbles leading the NFL and having a Carolina Panther record. In 2008, the Panthers rewarded Harris with a 4 year contract extension." THANKS JA!
April 19, 2009
#83 Max said . . .Word Shady.
April 19, 2009
#84 john said . . .I am not even gonna touch that one john.
April 19, 2009
#85 Chitillidie said . . .let me clarify:
we have made some incredible strides with the O-Line and QB position not to mention our tightends and top 3 running backs, development of Hester, etc but the incredible stubborness of the coaches and management to admit that Manning is not a pro caliber defensive player and that Kevin Payne and Steltz won't be able to get the job done adequately will result in some heartbreaking losses again this year. Mike Brown was coming off of a season where he played almost every game and that was after rehabbing from another career ending injury. now he is just healthy yet we choose to get rid of him now. Rideau and Haas just sat on the sidelines while we keep Rashied Davis in the NFL when no other team would touch him ie. Mike Green. It is not a sign of weakness to admit mistakes as long as you make strides to improve. Getting Cutler was a subtle admission that the last couple of decades except for Kramer and Miller was a QB nightmare.
We got rid of Harris who is a one man turnover crew because we thought the future was Daniel Manning at safety. We have the human misguided torpedo in Payne at the other safety who lowers his head and doesn't wrap up hitting his own players 40 percent of the time. Steltzy is a solid football player but the speed of the pro game will be his downfall. i am scared that our team is going to be so strong and then because of our inability to shore up the secondary we will squander more years of postseason glory. i pray that i am wrong and that Steltz steps up hard. vasher and tilman too. I'm still excited and i still think we are going to the playoffs, vikes and pack must die...
April 19, 2009
#86 BDG said . . .Just checked out Earl Bennet's Vandy stats. The game logs aren't encouraging. His production when Cutler was QB are arguably better, but if you take out two of his games in : Richmond in 2007 (3) and Kentucky in 2005 (5), you're only left with 12 TDs over a 3 year career. He had a few big games, but all in all didn't get it done vs. the good teams in the SEC. I don't really think he'll be any kind of answer.
I keep watching Bronco's highlights, and wonder how Jay can get it done w/o a big, fast Brandon Marshall-type target. Should be intersting. Hopefully Olsen turns into the 2nd coming of Tony Gonzales.
And Chris Harris can suck it. He never got it done while he was here, why should I cry about it now? And for all the times that the national pundits pick Carolina to go to the Superbowl (like 3 years running, it seems like), how often has John Fox gotten it done? Never. So suck it John. Peppers hasn't even signed his tender yet. He'll be out of shape and inury-prone when he reports a day before the season starts, and will be hurt by week 12. See Jason Peters last year. He's your whole defense. You'll be eating our dust come January. Kyle Orton was better than that waterboy you have at QB. Bears!
And OT: Brent Lillibridge currently has a .333 OBP... with one hit. Cabrera had .334 all last year. Ozzieball!
April 19, 2009
#87 Foxtro Tango Packers said . . .Why no love for Payne on here
16 games 74 solo 15 ass 89 total tckls 1 sack 4 interceptios and 7 passes defensed.
This all in his first year as a starter. Does he need to improve his decision making on when to make the big hit and when to just wrap up absolutely. But I think he had a great season for a first year starter. He is great when he does get the ball in his hands too which is a plus.
I agree that we gave away Chris Harris who I really liked alot, but he was more of a SS and now I believe we have that in Payne. I would rather kept Harris but at least one of our S spots should be good for the future. I'm not giving up on Steltz and I like the Glenn Earl signing but I still would like a young true FS from this draft. Zack Bowman has the physical abilities to be a great football player so maybe he pans out too, although I would rather they developed him to play CB opposite Graham in a couple years.
I'm just surprised how many people I've read that don't like Kevin Payne. The kid is a ball player for sure. Remember he has only been playing S a short time after starting college as a RB
April 19, 2009
#88 Shady said . . .BDG -
I am real high on K Payne, i think he showed tremendous ability last year, and was playmaker when he needed to be.we all know about his lack of ability to wrap up, but man when he connects, it's lights out. i think if John Hoke gets back there for a bit, he could be a one man wrecking crew this year
April 19, 2009
#89 BDG said . . .Best player available, easy.
April 19, 2009
#90 BDG said . . .Fox,
man I'm glad to hear someone else that's high on Payne. I thought I was losing my mind or something. I've heard a lot of bad talk about him and just didn't understand it. Corey Graham is another that I thought played very good for a 1st year guy that seems to get a bad rap on here and I don't see that either. I think Graham might be our best corner right now.April 19, 2009
#91 Kidron Music said . . .Is anyone here an ESPN insider? If so can you paste the scouting report on Glenn Earl? Would like to hear more on him
April 19, 2009
#92 BDG said . . .Glenn Earl
Grade: 59 | Key
Alert: NoneComment: Earl did not play last season after spending the year on injured reserve. He is an aggressive, young safety who has yet to play a full 16 game season over his career. He is a tough, competitive football player. He has good size and strength for the position. He has above-average instincts to diagnose. He is better versus the run than pass. He is a downhill box type player who can be effective versus the run. He has good physical traits as a tackler. He has the speed to run the alleys and does an effective job of maintaining leverage on the ball carrier. However, he does have a tendency to get out of position based on his overaggressive style as a player. He is more comfortable in short zones than deep zones. He has above-average zone awareness and reacts well to underneath throws. He has some functional play speed, but lacks the good top-end speed downfield in deep zones. He struggles to match up in man-to-man situations by allowing too much separation at break points with limited recovery speed. Overall, Earl is best suited to play strong safety, which means he is not suited to cover the deep middle or make plays on the ball.
April 19, 2009
#93 Nicole said . . .Thanks Kidron,
I appreciate thatApril 20, 2009
#94 Anonymous said . . .What's up Guys!
I would like to add some words of encouragement if I may. First, expectations are always high with a stud qb (I thought that Troy Aikman was going to be burned at the stake in Dallas-cowboys fan, but excited for you!) Second, don't think that the receivers that you have can't do the job-they haven't been pushed because there is a new standard that has been set. You play smash mouth football, so there is less pressure. BUT when you got Jay (sweet baby jesus!) the law was laid down before he even landed (put up or shut up!). He demands it like all elite qbs do and they will be forced to deliver or else. I always believed that Troy made Michael Irvin a better receiver because he demanded excellence. I'm not saying that Kyle is bad, but Jay brings the dimension of wanting to air things out and that's a good thing. If you notice, receivers that drop the ball don't last long on elite offenses-why? because it's not tolerated. He is a work in progress and he is willing to do what he has to in order to win-even if it means in your face stuff with the receiver. You basically are entering into a new and fun time, but let it come slowly because you want to be able to sustain. I don't think that the team is bad from what I saw-your defense had to stay on the field too long sometimes and even the best ones can't keep it up. Teams can't stack 8 to the box anymore-burn! You have the run game and that's a plus. Forte is an every down back and Jay will keep defenses on their heels. This is a team to be reckoned with and you served notice that you are bent on winning a title-in essence you have pulled a cowboys move. Don't look too deep into those bronco picks that you gave up-you'll thank yourself in the long run because qbs are a crap shot and then you won't have to pay those first round contracts. Those receivers will respond so stop worrying- a new sheriff in town does that. When I look at Jay, he's an unpolished version of Roger Staubach-landry had to reel him in because he always wanted to go deep. But in the end, Staubach proved worthy and that's what I see in Jay (unpolished talent that's waiting to come alive) CHICAGO I AM SO PROUD OF YOU AND GOOD LUCK!April 20, 2009
#95 Urlacher FTW said . . .From Chicagobears.com:
"JA: First I want to say that when a player comes in as a rookie, he’s usually coming in as a backup. In Earl’s case as a receiver, there’s an inordinate amount of learning that goes on because as a backup he has to learn all the receiver positions, not just one like at other positions. His is different. He had to learn everything, from the “X” to the “Z” to the slot, and that takes time for anybody. Earl’s a very bright person, and he did eventually learn all three. But it wasn’t until the midway part of the season where he got real comfortable. Had he came in as a starter and just had to learn the one position, in all likelihood he would have been fine early on. That’s not to say that he might have been ready by Day 1. But it certainly would have been much more accelerated given the fact that he only had to learn one position. He’s a very bright player, and I want to make sure that our fans know that we see Earl as a potential starter. Last year with veterans like Marty Booker and Brandon Lloyd here, we felt it best that Earl just learn from them."
How many times does Angelo go out of his way to say how this guy isn't stupid? Terrible sign. Yeesh. Please prove me wrong JA.
April 20, 2009
#96 BDG said . . .What I hated about that statement was, if it took too long for him to learn X, Y, and Z... why not just teach him just Y or just Z to get him out there faster?
April 20, 2009
#97 Fresno,CA BEAR FAN said . . .Damn Nicole are you single? haha .
# 94 there is no way you can call him a terrible pick yet. One damn season. It usually takes WR's about three years to be real productive in the NFL. There are exceptions of course just like anything with people like Eddie Royal, Desean Jackson. But you have to be kidding me if you think he is a bust already. I don't think he will ever be some true #1 WR in the league but he should be a solid WR that can hang onto the ball and help get 1st downs, which is something we could use. He was pretty productive in college.
I agree with Urlacher FTW that it would have been nice if they would've got him up to speed on one position first last year so he could get into the games, but who knows how much him knowing all the positions could help us this year. BTW Lovie Please give Rideau a shot at some playing time this year. He's earned it.April 20, 2009
#98 Nicole said . . .nicole just said it all......everyone We have Jay and Denver got our picks..time to move on.........BEAR DOWN!
April 20, 2009
#99 Anonymous said . . .Anonymous,
I can tell you that what you read is pr stuff-that's all. JA simply employed the tactic that Zampese/Turner applied with Aikman and his wide receivers: don't put negative in print-GET THEM ALONE AND TEAR INTO THEM. It was no secret in BigD that they took it to Aikman. The other thing that should be taken from his comments is: what he's saying is there are NO EXCUSES for production. The tide in Chicago has shifted and they have basically informed them that you produce or else. They will feel the same heat that Reggie Wayne feels week end and week out. The production will be there or else-LEAVE. That's how life is when you have a franchise qb!I'm enjoying the discussion guys, I know that alot of times you may tend to believe that women don't watch alot of sports. But I do and I've got my eyes on you Chicago!
April 20, 2009
#100 Nicole said . . .Oh really "Nicole?" You can tell what I read? That's great. But you're a Cowboy fan, so anything you say pretty much sounds like a cow dropping ass to me. So please spare me the Troy Aikman/Franchise QB diatribe. Not only are you talking about some 15 year old players, but you've brought up the fact that you're a woman at least 4 times in two postings... in spite of the fact that your name is Nicole, which would make it kind of obvious. If you knew anything about football, you would know that rooting for another NFC team is... kind of stupid? I'm looking for the words here. Help me out. Shouldn't you be humping Tony Romo's leg at this point? Why are you even here?
I am a football junky. I read about 5 sources/day. I've read from numerous sources that Bennet is not smart, JA's comments I copy/pasted didn't do anything to alleviate those concerns for me. I watched his Vandy highlights, and checked his stats, and I just don't see the potential; Cutler or no. I wasn't saying that JA should be ripping him in the media for being a dumb-ass, I'm just saying that whenever someone goes out of their way to convince the fan base that a player isn't a dumbass, he's usually a dumbass (Vince Young, Pacman Jones, Chris Henry, Odell Thurman: lots of PR efforts to make them not seem like thugs/retards).
Now go away. I'm guessing you're not really a girl anyways. And I tire of your banal opinions. Cowboys suck, and we really don't need any inbred southerners telling us how good our QB is. G'bye now!
April 20, 2009
#101 Dude that's dick said . . .Anonymous,
My, My Why are you so angry! This is simply a forum for discussion and we're all entitled to enjoy great discussion. Yes, I am really a female and no I will not go away because you want me to and that's not really a call for you to make. I have enjoyed the converstion with the other people on this page and I don't go out of my way to be negative, that's just not me. As I have always believed, find the positive even in the face of negativity. I wish the Bears and the Cowboys luck this season because it's going to be interesting to say the least.Guys,
Enjoy the primetime games!April 20, 2009
#102 Legal Carlos said . . .Anonymous,
I'm sure you're much smarter than everyone else here but seriously don't be a dick.April 20, 2009
#103 Fresno,Ca Bear Fan said . . .Isn't Cutler a Type 1 diabetic? What the heck is he doing bar hopping when he has that disease. Don't know what shows more immaturity - getting drunk with type 1 diabetes or his whining about the situation at Denver.
April 20, 2009
#104 MattIsMyForte said . . .Carlos- give the guy a break...im pretty sure you do way more stupid shit and immature things than what cutler does.
April 20, 2009
#105 MattIsMyForte said . . .Would it be fair to say that even though he has drinks in his hand...they might not be alcoholic? Give the guy a break.
Personally I'm glad to see him hitting the fantastic nightlife of the greatest city in the world, attending other Chicago teams games & checking out the clubs and bars with teammates. It is the offseason. Let him enjoy his arrival. Experiencing and enjoying the city you play for and represent should only increase his drive to succeed. It creates a sense of pride and determination to win associated with each and every play DURING THE SEASON. When a player feels like it is "his" I believe that can go a long way on 3rd and long.
Now if he is boozin', yeah, that's pretty fuckin stupid. But I still think its cool that they are bonding and hitting the town. You have to remember, he's a 26 year old single guy. Live it up Jay! Welcome to your new HOME.
April 20, 2009
#106 zisk said . . .*When a player feels like it is "his city" I believe that can go a long way on 3rd and long.
April 20, 2009
#107 BDG said . . .Is there anyone that knows more about diabetes than I do. I know getting drunk isn't good for you (never stopped me though), but are the effects worse when your diabetic or does the alcohol mess with his blood sugar, or what. And I'm glad he's drinking with olsen instead of making it rain or something. The worst thing olsen has ever gotten in trouble for was being a misogynist rapper.
April 20, 2009
#108 BDG said . . .Anonymous #99,
Why be a dick? We finally get someone that is a fan of another team on this site that isn't just here to aggravate us by telling us how much our team sucks and you have to be a dick. I for one enjoyed the posts by Nicole and I can definitely see some similarity between us and when the Aikman era began. I also agree that there will be no more excuses for our WR's. They will have to produce or be shown the door now. There is no more chicken or the egg theory in Chicago about which comes first the QB or the WR. We have a proven QB that the brain trust will do everything it can to keep happy. He won't and they won't tolerate poor play from the WR's. Do you really think they will take a chance of pissing off Cutler now by not improving his WR's? I don't. I think the future of Da team and JA is tied squarely to the hip of Culter now. They will do everything possible to make this trade look genius. It's not going to happen over night but we are headed in the right direction, and that's basically all Nicole was saying. Now am I going to return the favor and wish the Cowboys luck? HELL NO I HATE THE COWBOYS (sorry Nicole) but I respect her and her (or him in your case) opinions.
Also if you think Bennett is so dumb check this link out. They are HRT reports I think the Giants do them to prospactive draft picks. Not sure just stumbled across it. Bennett scored a 18 on his wonderlic and he played at Vandy so I don't think he's a total stick. He scored well on this report. He HAS to be smarter than Hester and Devin is picking it up so far.
There are HRT reports on Chris Williams and Craig Stetlz too if anyone is interested. Williams did great, Steltz not so much. Just google HRT report and player name.
I would like to welcome any further discussion from Nicole and enjoy reading her posts.April 20, 2009
#109 Urlacher FTW said . . .Also anonymous,
Pick a name so we know who you are and can you give me some links that you've read about how dumb Bennett is pleaseApril 20, 2009
#110 BDG said . . .Yes Nicole, please ignore Anon; we all do. Hopefully Cutler will be much better than Aikman, he has already thrown for more TDs in one season than Troy ever did. :)
BDG - Thanks for the info, kind of neat to look at those but I don't quite get it. Steltz scored higher on the Wonderlic than Bennett, which I believe Dustys was like a 40 when he came into the league :), but yet he is rated much more negatively for lack of confidence. Look at last year, yes Steltz got ran over a couple of times but did he ever blow coverage assignments ala Manning, and I seem to recall him being left 1 on 1 with Calvin Johnson deep downfield while filling in for the oft injured Brownie and coming up with an INT to save an embarrasing loss for us. Compared to Earl's rookie season in which he didn't catch a single pass, Steltz looked much more seasoned and bright, you can't read too much into those pieces of paper.
April 20, 2009
#111 BDG said . . .As far as the Cutler drinking goes, it is a little disconcerting . There were reports that his drinking was one of the big reason Denver wanted to trade him in the first place.
We've already heard and seen him drinking multiple times since we got him and that's coupled with me hearing about him and Jared Allen drinking whiskey and almost getting into it during Pro-Bowl week. ( come to find out they are friends, but I sure don't want my franchise QB getting drunk and scuffling with any beastly DE's).
He's very young and he's single so I'm not that upset about it, but it BEARS watching. It is good he is bonding with teammates and enjoying the city. Just hope it doesn't develop into a issue.Here's the link I forgot to add to post #107 about Bennett
http://www.hrd-rtp.com/hrtnfl/Non-Giants%20PDF%2020%20April/Bennett%20%20%20Earl%20-%20WR_BXMS.pdf
April 20, 2009
#112 Urlacher FTW said . . .URL,
I agree that they are just a reference. I just don't see how a rookie WR not getting a playbook down his rookie year means he's too dumb to play in the league. I was basically giving Anon a reference to his intelligence.April 20, 2009
He is a 26 year old multi-millionaire. Drinking is legal. Yes it is not recommended when you are insulin-dependant but my best friend is type one and has 2 sleeves tattooed and drinks almost every weekend, when you are young and invincible (stupid) and add in rich a little thing like a doctor's recommendation isn't going to curb your enjoyment of life.
As long as he doesn't overdue it to the point of getting sick or doing it nightly, he'll be fine, he won't live as long or may need a transplant by 45 but he'll be out of football by then anyway. Let him be young and dumb, only thing that bothers me is when these rich guys get DUIs; know what you pay an agent 12% to work a month or so on your contract, gimme 5% of your salary and I will drive you wherever you need to go all year long.April 20, 2009
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.