I was hoping to stick on baseball and continue trying to explain to Cubs fans why their team won't be so hot, but the Chicago Bears did something they rarely do and that was to make a stunning trade.
The Bears got Denver Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler and a fifth round draft pick for quarterback Kyle Orton, this year's first and third round draft picks, and next year's first round draft pick. Considering how well general manager Jerry Angelo has done with first round picks maybe this is a good deal.
However, is the one year pro bowler Cutler the answer to an anemic Bears' offense? I'd say yes and no.
I say yes because he is more mobile than Orton. Can throw a deeper pass which should better utilize the speed of Devin Hester. Has always wanted to be a Bear. We don't hear too many guys say they want to play for the Bears. These are all positives.
Now the reason I'm leaning towards Cutler not being the answer is simple, offensive coordinator Ron Turner. The Bears have no real idea on developing quarterbacks and who is going to guide the talented Cutler to the next level? I really thought Rex Grossman was a steal when the Bears drafted him from Florida and he helped get the Bears to the Super Bowl. But for some reason he regressed and that reason was Turner who didn't know how to utilize his skills and the lack of a good quarterback's coach to teach him. Grossman and his confidence were so beaten down by the fans and the media he may never play again.
The fans and media have been clamoring for a franchise quarterback. The reality is no quarterback will truly thrive here. Do you think Peyton Manning would be who he is if he was a Bear? Absolutely not. The organization doesn't have the quarterback mentality because they always focused on running the ball.
Cutler will be an upgrade if they utilize his arm strength and get away from the pointless two yard pass play. They also need some real receivers. Greg Olsen should get better and the never used Earl Bennett was Cutler's favorite receiver at Vanderbilt. Did you get that Mr. Turner? Hester is a threat but they need a bonafide pass catcher.
Finally, the Bears made a free agent signing I know will help when they lured offensive tackle Orlando Pace to the team. My friend Mike thinks he's too old at 33. This seven time all-star, despite recent injuries, is the answer to the retirement of John Tait. His leadership on the line should only help last year's number one pick Chris Williams.
Still everything on offense will come down to Turner and his play calling. Players won't matter.
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4 comments:
You wrote my thoughts.
Turner is Offensive as an Offensive coordinator.
I hope he can change his ways. Now, he has no excuses.
I agree with you on the key being our Offensive Coordinator. If he doesn't have many long yard plays in his book, his arm strength and mobility mean nothing. As far as the trade goes, Cutler is better than any quarterback available in this year's draft. So losing a first round pick is no big deal.
My only problem with Pace is that they signed him to a three year deal at his age. I'm sure his experience will help but one year at a time. Let's see what he has left in the tank.
Now let's get back to this year's real big story, The CHICAGO CUBS and their Magic 101 year. World Series here we come!
Three year deals are not guaranteed. It's all for cap purposes. They can cut him if he doesn't pan out.
Length of contract is irrelevant. Pace wont hurt the Bears. Top Draft picks are pointless too. 1st rounders are wasted here except for Olsen of late.
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