Despite being one of the more famous and storied NFL franchises in the league, the Bears have had to deal with some pain of late. Can this group turn that around?
Strength
When looking at the Chicago Bears statistics, they were actually very good at defending the pass, allowing the third least amount of passing yards. On top of this, they used their first two picks in the latest NFL draft on Kyler Gordon (cornerback from Washington) and Jaquan Brisker (safety from Penn St).
This is only going to strengthen their ability to defend the pass and make their group stronger.
Weakness
Their strength is defending the pass, but their weakness is making the pass. With rookie Justin Fields under centre and let’s say some questionable coaching, the Bears ranked 30th for passing yards, 29th for touchdown passes and 30th for net yards per attempt.
Without any big upgrades on either the offensive line or wide receiver group, it is all up to Fields to make the leap for this passing game to improve.
Player to watch
Despite Allen Robinson playing a minimal role in this offence last season, his presence will be missed.
It is time for Darnell Mooney to break out and show his true potential on this team. He had 1055 yards on 81 catches last season and without Robinson on the roster, it is going to fall on his shoulders when it comes to the passing game. He has the ability to do it and I am looking forward to watching him play.
Who’s under pressure?
I am looking off-field for the person under pressure and that is new general manager Ryan Poles. He has walked into a less than ideal situation and needs to make moves quickly in order to capitalise on Justin Fields’ rookie contract.
Without an offensive line, it is hard to see this offence firing and with the trade of Khalil Mack they are in a weird space, to rebuild or not? He needs to figure it out fast!
Projection
I am a massive Justin Fields fan, he was my favourite quarterback coming out of the draft in 2021, but I don’t love the situation he is in. The Bears need to desperately get him some help beside Darnell Mooney at wide receiver and invest in young offensive lineman.
In a division with the Packers and Vikings, it is hard to see them clinching a playoff berth and I feel the spotlight could be firmly on Chicago come the end of season 2022-23.
Win/loss: 7-10.
Sunny Japs
Guest
I don't see how Bears can win 7 games... 4 or 5 is more realistic.
Jake Smith
Roar Rookie
Yeah it was mind boggling that they neglected the offensive-line throughout the draft and off-season as whole!
Davico
Roar Pro
It is going to be a long year for the Bears I'm afraid. They got way worse on Defense and the O Line is rubbish. Without protection it would not matter if Fields had all the options to throw to in the league.