The Chicago Bears will play their 89th regular season in 2008 and will try to improve on their 7-9 result in 2007. Obviously, heading into the new season the Bears had to tackle a lot of problems, mainly their weak offense. Statistically speaking, the team’s running game ranked last in most categories. The team also had its share of injuries and poor play from its aging offensive line. What does it take to turn the bears into the 2006 team that ended the season playing Super Bowl winner the Indianapolis Colts?
The draft is a good indication of where the team is headed in 2008. In addition to its six other regular picks, the team was able to choose an extra third-round pick after trading with the San Diego Chargers. They also traded third-round picks with the San Francisco 49ers and got their fifth-round pick after negotiating with Lance Briggs’ agent. The NFL also allowed the Bears to pick three compensatory picks, giving the team a total of 12 draft picks. As many experts predicted, the Bears wisely used their top three draft picks to pick offensive players. These were Vanderbilt University offensive tackle Chris Williams, Tulane running back Matt Forte and wide receiver Earl Bennett.
The following rounds brought some defensive players as well as offensive players to the team, including Arkansas’ Marcus Harrison at defensive tackle, Louisiana State University safety Craig Steltz, Nebraska cornerback Zack Bowman, tight end Kellen Davis and wing. defensive Ervin Baldwin of Michigan. Express. Rounding out the list were Georgia offensive guard Chester Adams, Oregon State linebacker Joey LaRocque, Ohio State offensive tackle Kirk Barton and Arkansas wide receiver Marcus Monk.
How did the press react to the 2008 Chicago Bears? There was some criticism regarding the quarterback’s situation, as well as players like Cedric Benson. Just as the team was trying to rebuild its offensive line, it also lost Bernard Berrian. Fans and pundits noted that the Bears went after offensive players like Chris Williams. Williams has received some scrutiny due to his short arms, yet most fans believe that he is a smart athlete and can easily become a top pass blocker in the big leagues. Cedric Benson probably felt the heat when running back Matt Forte was selected, possibly as his replacement if Benson doesn’t start making good on his promises. Forte is seen as an intermediate for running back and winger, although his MVP performance in the Senior Bowl did help. Earl Bennett also earned high marks for his size and volume and, most importantly, his passing catch rate.
What is the general reception of the 2008 Bears draft? They got good scores, receiving both quantity and quality. Some experts questioned why the team did not opt for a quarterback. It seems likely that the Bears will have a longer wait for success as they rebuild their offense. However, they seem to be heading in the right direction. Sometimes building legendary Super Bowl winners just takes time, as Chicago’s most loyal fans know.