Bears Free Agent Signings Nice, But There is More Work to be Done

The problem with signing the top free agent is that it puts you in an all-in situation. I mean, it doesn't make sense to guarantee $40 million dollars to one player if it leaves you three or four players away from contention—yet that's exactly where Bears GM Jerry Angelo finds himself after signing Julius Peppers.

Yes, he also added some depth in the backfield with Chester Taylor, and got Mike Martz the blocking tight end he needs in his system, but if Angelo thinks he's done, then he just may be...as in done as Chicago's GM after this season.

That's because, as currently constituted, this Bears' roster is simply not championship material. The prevailing wisdom says if the Bears fail to make the playoffs this season, both Lovie Smith and Angelo will be packing their bags.

Recognizing this, the team went out and made a huge splash on day one of the free agency period, but they are still a few cards short of a full deck.

At the press conference introducing Peppers and the other signings, Angelo said that he wasn't out to "have an All-Pro at every position."

But look, if the Bears don't fix their holes in the offensive line and in the defensive backfield, this team will be sitting at home come playoff time once again.

Despite the moves made thus far, I'd still have to rank Minnesota (if Favre returns) and Green Bay ahead of the Bears in the division.

So I ask you, Mr. Angelo: Does it make sense to spend this much money and come up short? What's the expected return on these signings?

Well, it should be the playoffs...and anything less should not be left up to chance.

Finish the job, Mr. Angelo. This is an uncapped season, and there should be some useful players out there. Maybe not stars, but some O-linemen and a safety that can help this team.

And, while you're at it, I'd also like a true No. 1 wideout, though I realize that isn't going to happen. The Bears like their receivers, and time will tell if they are right.

Meanwhile, the draft should help, though finding an immediate contributor despite the lack of a first or second round pick might be wishful thinking.

Hey, nice job so far Jerry, but what have you done for us lately?