The Chicago Bears ended their season with a 7-10 record. In the new league year, major decisions have to be made. Not to worry; playoffs are in their sights, as long as head coach Matt Eberflus and the front office make these moves in the next six months.
- Improve the pass rush. Montez Sweat rejuvenated the Bears’ front seven, but other than him, their defensive line is atrocious. Free agent Chase Young would be a dream signing at the edge, but if Chicago can’t connect, some rental, 1-year contracts could work.
- Fix the O-line. The trenches are alright, but not amazing. They’ll need to find a new center, as Lucas Patrick and Dan Feeney share the common traits of expired contracts and imitating a turnstile after the snap. It seems the two will walk in free agency, and a center like Tyler Biadasz will be picked up there. As for their tackles, the Bears should approach this in the draft with one of the many tackle prospects, like Notre Dame’s Joe Alt or Penn State’s Olumuyiwa Fashanu.
- Draft USC’s Caleb Williams with the #1 pick. Hear me out. Justin Fields has a limited ceiling, and a second contract would be more expensive than a rookie deal for Williams. The standout, Heisman-winning prospect has the potential to be a generational talent. If a Super Bowl is all that matters, Williams is the guy that can take Chicago there.
- Get some WR help. The Bears have a few free agent receivers, and if left untreated, will leave D.J. Moore with peanuts. If Tyler Scott is the WR2, the passing game is doomed. They could use the #1 pick on Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison and swing on a QB with their #9 slot, or take Williams first and a receiver or tackle with the #9 pick.
Pray the McCaskey family sells. Virginia, the majority owner, will likely pass away soon at 101 years young. After this, Chicago must hope the next generation sells the team to someone, anyone. When the team’s head of day-to-day operations was moved up from managing ticket sales, it’s no wonder the family has brought a reign of error upon the city.
