Can Major Wright Help The Bears' Secondary?

• LCB Charles Tillman
• RCB Zack Bowman
• SS Chris Harris
• FS Danieal Manning

Rod Miranelli, formerly the defensive line coach, was hired as defensive coordinator. The front seven seems primed for a return to form, and Miranelli will have some flexibility there. The secondary will lean on that group. It appears their greatest challenge will be finding consistency in the back end. They do still have corner Charles Tillman, and he undoubtedly has some good years left in him.

Lovie Smith's two greatest tests as a coach have been a) finding anything resembling a reliable quarterback, and b) finding safety combinations. Their struggles at quarterback have been well publicized, leaving the safety problems in the background. According to USA Today, "The Bears have made a total of 40 lineup changes at the two safety positions" during Smith's tenure as head coach.

Danieal Manning is still pencilled in as the starting free safety, but nothing is guaranteed in the Bears' secondary. Wright fits well in a defense built around the Cover 2, where his average man coverage skills can be masked in the deep zone. Plus, he gets to sit back and flatten receivers. He certainly brings a physical presence. For those of you with violent tendencies, you'll enjoy this. But don't expect significant contributions from Wright in his first year. Just plead for the rest of the secondary to play well.