Chicago Bears: 5 Things to Look Forward To Next Season

The Chicago Bears have had a season of ups and downs. From starting 2-3, to winning five in a row, to losing four more in a row.

The Bears now sit at 7-7 and are on the outside looking in for the playoffs. It's quite a shame too, because had Jay Cutler, Matt Forte and Johnny Knox not gotten injured the Bears arguably would be 11-3 and a virtual lock to make the playoffs.

But not all is lost—the Chicago Bears have learned a lot about themselves and there are quite a few things to look forward to in 2012. Here are my top five things to look forward to next season. 

Enjoy!

1. A Healthy Jay Cutler

Jay Cutler was having his best season as a Chicago Bear and was really starting to blossom in Mike Martz's offense.

He was on pace for over 3,700 yards, 21 touchdowns and only 11 interceptions, possibly his best season since his Denver days—and he was doing all of this without a true No. 1 receiver and a below-average offensive line. 

But on the bright side, Mike Martz dispelled rumors of leaving the Bears for a head coaching position at the collegiate level. Chicago's offense was really starting to come together and with Martz more than likely coming back, his third season could be a good one.

Jay seems to be coming into his own in Chicago and I think if the Bears' front office can shore up the offensive line a little more and get some help at receiver, Jay could be in for a special season. 

2. A Higher Draft Pick

Last season the Chicago Bears had the 29th pick in the draft. This season that number appears destined to be in the mid-teens.

This is both good and bad.

It's good in the fact that the Bears will have a shot at some higher-rated prospects, but it is also bad because it means the Bears did make the playoffs.

I've seen a few mock drafts having the Bears select Michael Floyd, wide receiver from Notre Dame. This would be a fantastic addition to the Bears' current wide receiver corps and arguably make them a top-five unit.

They would have a true, and very talented, No. 1 in Floyd, a very good No. 2 in Earl Bennett, and would also mean a move for Johnny Knox to the slot, which would make him a much more potent weapon.

The Bears would have three solid receivers starting and Jay Cutler would be ecstatic. 

I have also seen the Bears going after various offensive linemen, which I am also all for. The offensive line is still easily the weakest part of the team so any addition would be welcome.

This higher pick could end up working out well for the Bears regardless of what direction they go. 

3. Matt Forte (Hopefully)

Matt Forte is one of the elite backs in the NFL, and was one of the most talked about running backs due to his contract situation. 

Forte, and apparently everyone but the Bears front office, knows that he is an elite back and wanted to be paid like one.

However, the Bears did not want to commit the type of money he wanted, so Forte proceeded to produce one of the best-ever seasons by a Bears running back before getting hurt. 

While the injury is not serious it has caused Forte to miss the last two games, and will probably force him out for the rest of the season.

But I think the Bears have taken notice of how important Matt Forte is to their offense, and I think they will open their minds and give him the money he deserves.

4. An Improved Secondary

When Chris Conte and Major Wright took over as full-time starters at the safety positions the Bears pass defense was much-improved. Both players have the athleticism and smarts to play safety in the Cover 2 scheme, and it showed.

Before injuring his shoulder, Major Wright had an interception in three straight games and was becoming a great playmaker for a Chicago team that prides itself on taking the ball away. 

Conte was playing extremely well prior to his injury. He was a guy you could count on to make a tackle in the open field and he plays pursuit angles exceptionally well. 

Both players look to have secured a position the Bears have been shaky at since the Mike Brown days. They both will be healthy next year and should start from day one.

Not to mention Charles Tillman played some his best football this season and will hopefully keep it up going into next year. 

Tim Jennings had a few lapses at critical moments and for the most part has played decently, but I think the Bears will look for an upgrade in the draft or free agency. 

5. A Super Bowl Win

This may be wishful thinking, but if the Bears can shore up the offensive line and finally get Jay Cutler a true No. 1 WR (*Cough*Michael Floyd*Cough*) they will have a legitimate start. 

Remember, this team was one win away last season from a Super Bowl appearance, and they were well on their way to the playoffs this season had Jay Cutler not gone down. 

If the Bears do shore up the offensive line, get the No. 1 receiver, and SIGN MATT FORTE they will be in prime position to be contenders once again.

The defense has shown no signs of slowing down—except for last week—but who can blame them when the offense has Caleb Hanie.

I would look for the defensive line to improve even more as well, and I expect Henry Melton to continue to improve. 

Let's hope that next year the Bears can continue the recent success of Chicago teams and bring the Lombardi Trophy back to the Chi for the first time since 1985.