The Bears Top Offseason Needs (Part One)

After another disappointing season, (The Bears had a losing season this year and have missed the playoffs the last three years) obviously the Bears need to make some changes on both sides of the ball.

The Bears promised a drastic change. But after filling out their coaching staff, it didn’t seem like they had done much, so I think  (or should I say, hope) they’ll pick up some playmakers either on free agency, the draft or even by trade.

Here are the biggest Offseason needs for the Windy City team:

Need #1: The Offensive Line

The O-Line is, without a doubt, the reason why the Bears simply sucked carrying the rock and were a big part on Jay Cutler throwing so many interceptions.

They specially need a major improvement in the tackle position; Orlando Pace was just a temporary solution and didn’t exactly perform at a high level.

The team simply couldn’t run the ball and Mike Martz is known for his willingness to let the QB sacked. So if the team wants to really exploit Jay Cutler and Matt Forte’s abilities, they need to get some solid players for this aging line.

If I was the Bears front office: I would try to pick up a veteran free agent (but not to old, I’d be a happy with a player that’s been around the league for at least 5 years) and in the Draft a project pick in the 6^th or 7^th round. 

Need #2: The Defensive Line

The main problem for the Bears was their inability to stop the run and the defensive line has to take a lot of the blame.

The team drafted with their first pick in the ’09 Draft, defensive end Jarron Gilbert. But he didn’t impress enough the team and they decided to trade for Gaines Adams (R.I.P) and still he didn’t help the team much.

They were ranked 29^th in rush defense and they just didn’t get to the quarterback enough. Cedric Benson and Ryan Grant had career days and both of those games made a huge impact on the Bears.

If I was the Bears front office: I would pursue Julius Pepper if the Panthers don’t resign him and trade their 3^rd and/or 4^th pick for a young talented player. But I would change the defensive system because the Bears have the talent to play the 3-4 not the Tampa 2 blitzing with Hillenmeyer or Nick Roach sounds much better than what they have now.

(This article was first published in Bears Backer. If you want to see part 2 please click on the link.)