GM for the day(free agents) offense

[Stinger226]

Pace said he will rebuild through the draft, so I dont think there will be any big free agent signing, but plenty of lower end signing to help redo the roster.

We have decent amount of cap space, but way to many spots to fill,to spend big.

 

QBs-We will NOT be bringing in a QB to compete with Cutler,simply none available.

Backups: Matt Moore has history with Fox

Brian Hoyer has history with our new QB coach

Jake Locker has history with our new QB coach

 

conclusion: I think we bring in one of these 3 OR draft one.

 

RBs-I think Kary gets a chance to show what he can do and keep in mind Gase and Fox had several RBs to carry the rock.

Moreno -has a history with Fox and could provide us with some inside running to complement Forte.

Ingram- if Pace thinks he could be the power runner with the look at the lead back roll in the future, we could see him here.

Vereen- if they want to bring in a back to add share time with Forte to extend his career and his brother lobbies for him here.

 

conclusion: I think they bring in Ingram and go more to the power game with Forte as the 3rd down back type, or put him in the slot on some plays.

 

WRs- Jeffery is solid in the future,Marshall is not, I think he will probably be gone and they will bring in a speed WR either as a FA or as a draft pick.

Eddy Royal- has ties to Denver and can be the deep threat as a 3rd WR

Denarius Moore-has shown flashes but have been inconsistent. Has the speed and maybe will give him the chance to grow

Andre Holmes- ditto as Moore

 

conclusion: I think they draft the speed WR in the draft, but with so many holes to fill may grab one here.

 

TE- We need a backup

Virgil Green- has a history with Fox

Jacob Tamme- can give you some pass catching ability for the back up spot

OL- I think they move Long to LT, Bushrod to RT, cut Garza

Brian De La Puente- I think they bring him back as the starting center

Orlando Franklin- if they want to solidify the OL, they bring him in, wont be cheap but OGs dont usually demand big contracts.

James Carpenter- Seahawks will have to spend money on Wilson, he may slip through the cracks

 

conclusion: I think we definitely bring in some help here De La Puente takes over at center and a guard to take over Longs spot as he moves to LT.

 

Other than a WR and maybe a late round QB prospect, I think the draft will be all defense, so here is where we will address free agency.

 

['TD']

I actually disagree with a lot of what you said. I'll skip QB so the thread doesn't get hi-jacked with another discussion there.

 

-I absolutely don't think Forte will be turned into a 3rd down back. He is the best player on the offense.

-I agree they may draft a WR, but I think Marshall has a solid Future, and could play at an extremely high level for the next 5 years with the Bears.

-I think at most, they kick out Long to RT, I can't see him getting the start at LT without experience.

-Fox values veterans, and I don't see Garza getting cut.

-DLP will may choose to follow Kromer to Buffalo. I don't think it's a given he will be back.

 

 

[scs787]

Just an opinion here, but I think they lay down a foundation in free agency and then build on that foundation in the draft.

 

I just got a gut feeling that this team isn't gonna sit on close to 30 million dollars or whatever the number is. Not when your HC is old and your owners are tired of losing.

 

Again this is just my gut feeling here, but I think we'll be major players in FA.

 

As for offensive players, I like some of the names you threw out there. I'm not sure I wanna move Long away from guard though.

[Stinger226]

I actually disagree with a lot of what you said. I'll skip QB so the thread doesn't get hi-jacked with another discussion there.

 

-I absolutely don't think Forte will be turned into a 3rd down back. He is the best player on the offense.

-I agree they may draft a WR, but I think Marshall has a solid Future, and could play at an extremely high level for the next 5 years with the Bears.

-I think at most, they kick out Long to RT, I can't see him getting the start at LT without experience.

-Fox values veterans, and I don't see Garza getting cut.

-DLP will may choose to follow Kromer to Buffalo. I don't think it's a given he will be back.

I probably didnt say it right but am not saying Forte will take a backseat, but think they bring in a power runner to complement what he does.

I think they will be getting rid of Marshall, not because he cant still play, but think they come in here trying to set a new culture and with his distractions last year, they dont feel he fits in. (heard where many players are tired of his chaos)

Garza will give you maybe one year, DLP could be here 4 to 5 years. I think Garza's play has dropped off significantly.

Long to LT is a long shot guess, but to rebuild the team, he is our best option at playing LT in the future and dont think they wait until Bushrods contract is up.( odds are better he just moves to RT)

[Stinger226]

Just an opinion here, but I think they lay down a foundation in free agency and then build on that foundation in the draft.

 

I just got a gut feeling that this team isn't gonna sit on close to 30 million dollars or whatever the number is. Not when your HC is old and your owners are tired of losing.

 

Again this is just my gut feeling here, but I think we'll be major players in FA.

 

As for offensive players, I like some of the names you threw out there. I'm not sure I wanna move Long away from guard though.

We have so many big contract FAs not worthy of what we paid them,I dont think they continue down that road again. I do think they bring in less expensive FAs to start to build the foundation you speak of.

 

I think if we bring in Franklin/OT/OG to solidify the OL,add a Eddie Royal to give us some speed at WR. Mark Ingram will not be expensive and adds a power back to the mix. Add a backup QB, and backup TE and none of this will be big money.

['TD']

I probably didnt say it right but am not saying Forte will take a backseat, but think they bring in a power runner to complement what he does.

I think they will be getting rid of Marshall, not because he cant still play, but think they come in here trying to set a new attitude and with his distractions last year, they dont feel he fits in. (heard where many players are tired of his chaos)

Garza will give you maybe one year, DLP could be here 4 to 5 years. I think Garza's play has dropped off significantly.

Long to LT is a long shot guess, but to rebuild the team, he is our best option at playing LT in the future and dont think they wait until Bushrods contract is up.( odds are better he just moves to RT)

I understand what you mean now, I could see the Bears definitely be bringing in another RB. Pace's saints have a history of finding decent RB after RB for their team. No doubt he will be looking at the position, especially considering Forte's age and being the last year of his contract. I'm not particularly high on Gase's/Fox's ability to gauge the talent of the RB's once they are on the roster. The Broncos almost were in reverse in their RB order last year. Everytime someone got hurt, the next guy in was a lot better. Ball played some what poor, then hillman did pretty well, but then finally CJ Anderson was amazing.

 

I just don't buy into the Marshall thing, and that players can't stand him. I am sure there are some that can't like Gould, but I would guess the reports are blown up a little.

 

I would much rather see DLP also. I just don't think he has many ties with Chicago as he hasn't been here long, and he basically followed Kromer here. Pace was over the pro player personnel during his tenure, and the team let him move on in free agency. That's the main reason I don't think it's a given he will be back.

 

I could see them getting Long to LT in the future, I just don't see them moving him out to the blindside right away. He has dreamed of being a T, and should have a little pull with his high level of play so far at guard. I could see them giving him a shot at RT to see how he does, and maybe move out to LT in 2016 if he excels at RT this year.

[scs787]

We have so many big contract FAs not worthy of what we paid them,I dont think they continue down that road again. I do think they bring in less expensive FAs to start to build the foundation you speak of.

 

I think if we bring in Franklin/OT/OG to solidify the OL,add a Eddie Royal to give us some speed at WR. Mark Ingram will not be expensive and adds a power back to the mix. Add a backup QB, and backup TE and none of this will be big money.

 

Meh, just because past GMs have somewhat failed in free agency doesnt mean you should stop all together. Especially in this years free agency, one that is being billed as the best FA class ever.

 

Second teir guys like Perish Cox, Chris Culliver, Rahim Moore, and Louis Delmas are the guys I'm looking at. Though I wouldn't be shocked if we look at top tier guys like McCourty, Flowers, Maxwell, and possibly even guys like Suh and Houston.

[Stinger226]

Meh, just because past GMs have somewhat failed in free agency doesnt mean you should stop all together. Especially in this years free agency, one that is being billed as the best FA class ever.

 

Second teir guys like Perish Cox, Chris Culliver, Rahim Moore, and Louis Delmas are the guys I'm looking at. Though I wouldn't be shocked if we look at top tier guys like McCourty, Flowers, Maxwell, and possibly even guys like Suh and Houston.

I think those are good names. I will get to defense tomorrow. I think in the next two years will see a lot of turnover and cheaper players run threw to see if we can imitate Seahawks and get some later round gems and unexpected FAs.

[adam]

Here is my wish listL

 

Offense:

1. Eddie Royal, WR

2a. Mike Iupati, G, 28

2b. Orlando Franklin, G, 27

3. Mark Ingram, RB, 25

4. Virgil Green, TE, 27

 

I feel like at a minimum if we can get a Slot Receiver and some help on the O-Line, the others would be just icing on the cake. Ingram would be an awesome change of pace back and Green would be a great 2nd TE. Obviously salaries would play a huge part because the defense needs a lot more love than the offense.

[Stinger226]

Here is my wish listL

 

Offense:

1. Eddie Royal, WR

2a. Mike Iupati, G, 28

2b. Orlando Franklin, G, 27

3. Mark Ingram, RB, 25

4. Virgil Green, TE, 27

 

I feel like at a minimum if we can get a Slot Receiver and some help on the O-Line, the others would be just icing on the cake. Ingram would be an awesome change of pace back and Green would be a great 2nd TE. Obviously salaries would play a huge part because the defense needs a lot more love than the offense.

If we grab two OGs what do we do with Slauson? He is under contract.

[adam]

If we grab two OGs what do we do with Slauson? He is under contract.

No, just one, that is why I had them labeled as 2a and 2b.

[AZ54]

Pace said he will rebuild through the draft, so I dont think there will be any big free agent signing, but plenty of lower end signing to help redo the roster.

We have decent amount of cap space, but way to many spots to fill,to spend big.

 

QBs-We will NOT be bringing in a QB to compete with Cutler,simply none available.

Backups: Matt Moore has history with Fox

Brian Hoyer has history with our new QB coach

Jake Locker has history with our new QB coach

 

conclusion: I think we bring in one of these 3 OR draft one.

 

RBs-I think Kary gets a chance to show what he can do and keep in mind Gase and Fox had several RBs to carry the rock.

Moreno -has a history with Fox and could provide us with some inside running to complement Forte.

Ingram- if Pace thinks he could be the power runner with the look at the lead back roll in the future, we could see him here.

Vereen- if they want to bring in a back to add share time with Forte to extend his career and his brother lobbies for him here.

 

conclusion: I think they bring in Ingram and go more to the power game with Forte as the 3rd down back type, or put him in the slot on some plays.

 

WRs- Jeffery is solid in the future,Marshall is not, I think he will probably be gone and they will bring in a speed WR either as a FA or as a draft pick.

Eddy Royal- has ties to Denver and can be the deep threat as a 3rd WR

Denarius Moore-has shown flashes but have been inconsistent. Has the speed and maybe will give him the chance to grow

Andre Holmes- ditto as Moore

 

conclusion: I think they draft the speed WR in the draft, but with so many holes to fill may grab one here.

 

TE- We need a backup

Virgil Green- has a history with Fox

Jacob Tamme- can give you some pass catching ability for the back up spot

OL- I think they move Long to LT, Bushrod to RT, cut Garza

Brian De La Puente- I think they bring him back as the starting center

Orlando Franklin- if they want to solidify the OL, they bring him in, wont be cheap but OGs dont usually demand big contracts.

James Carpenter- Seahawks will have to spend money on Wilson, he may slip through the cracks

 

conclusion: I think we definitely bring in some help here De La Puente takes over at center and a guard to take over Longs spot as he moves to LT.

 

Other than a WR and maybe a late round QB prospect, I think the draft will be all defense, so here is where we will address free agency.

 

 

I agree on keeping Cutler as there are just so few options in the draft or FA. I expect to see Clausen as our backup again this year and another player brought in to compete with him and Fales for a roster spot. I do not care for Jake Locker as I watched him all through college and while he's a phenomenal athlete he just doesn't read defenses well.

 

RB…don't see us spending big money in FA here. I don't know what Ingram's market will be, I know it won't be huge but he should be in enough demand to put him beyond the price range I want to spend. I wouldn't rule out a FA RB, perhaps Vereen, but avoid the big expense and keep that cash for defense. Draft a RB in the 4th or 5th Rd to fit in the mix. Carey is an inside runner, he's very quick and that's where he can be most productive and as far as I can tell that fits what Fox likes to do. He should get a chance to compete for the #2 role in camp.

 

WRs…there is no way I see Marshall getting cut. He's still a very productive receiver and, equally important to this new coaching staff, he's an excellent run blocker. Running is going to be a big part of what we do next year. We'll continue to pair him with Jeffrey on the outside but will add a speed guy to compete with Wilson. I actually wouldn't mind some spending some FA cash on this position because I think it's key to getting our offense less predictable. Randall Cobb would fit in well but he's likely getting a huge payday and he's not coming here to be a #3 WR. Eddie Royal fits the bill IMO…2nd tier FA money and different skill set from Marshall/Jeffrey. If that doesn't work out there isn't another good FA fit for what we need so in that case this would likely to be a Rd 4-6 draft pick. Colleges run spread offenses everywhere now and good speed WRs are now available late into the draft.

 

Backup TE: Likely a FA pickup as you state.

 

OL: I don't think they move Long to LT. You have a guy who has been a Pro Bowl player at OG 2 years straight. Why mess with success? We don't know how he'll handle the transition back to LT. I do agree he can play out there just not sure how well he'll do. I don't think De LaPuente returns as a starter, maybe as a backup. Pace was in charge of pro personnel in NO and had to be one in the front office with the most input to letting him test the open market. Yes, NO wanted him back once he had trouble finding work. Again, he had trouble finding work last year so I think we're over-valuing one of our players. I think we're fine at OG with Slausson and Long. OC can be ok even with Garza but wouldn't be surprised to see us go after another FA here.

 

I am totally open to grabbing a LT with #7 overall. Love the idea of Bushrod at RT and someone like Peat at LT, a big man who is mobile and a nasty run blocker. Not sure his value is there at #7 but I don't think Mills is starting material. Either way it happens, many here see a need to do something at LT and these are players you have to get early in the draft or not at all.

 

 

[scs787]

I agree on keeping Cutler as there are just so few options in the draft or FA. I expect to see Clausen as our backup again this year and another player brought in to compete with him and Fales for a roster spot. I do not care for Jake Locker as I watched him all through college and while he's a phenomenal athlete he just doesn't read defenses well.

 

RB…don't see us spending big money in FA here. I don't know what Ingram's market will be, I know it won't be huge but he should be in enough demand to put him beyond the price range I want to spend. I wouldn't rule out a FA RB, perhaps Vereen, but avoid the big expense and keep that cash for defense. Draft a RB in the 4th or 5th Rd to fit in the mix. Carey is an inside runner, he's very quick and that's where he can be most productive and as far as I can tell that fits what Fox likes to do. He should get a chance to compete for the #2 role in camp.

 

WRs…there is no way I see Marshall getting cut. He's still a very productive receiver and, equally important to this new coaching staff, he's an excellent run blocker. Running is going to be a big part of what we do next year. We'll continue to pair him with Jeffrey on the outside but will add a speed guy to compete with Wilson. I actually wouldn't mind some spending some FA cash on this position because I think it's key to getting our offense less predictable. Randall Cobb would fit in well but he's likely getting a huge payday and he's not coming here to be a #3 WR. Eddie Royal fits the bill IMO…2nd tier FA money and different skill set from Marshall/Jeffrey. If that doesn't work out there isn't another good FA fit for what we need so in that case this would likely to be a Rd 4-6 draft pick. Colleges run spread offenses everywhere now and good speed WRs are now available late into the draft.

 

Backup TE: Likely a FA pickup as you state.

 

OL: I don't think they move Long to LT. You have a guy who has been a Pro Bowl player at OG 2 years straight. Why mess with success? We don't know how he'll handle the transition back to LT. I do agree he can play out there just not sure how well he'll do. I don't think De LaPuente returns as a starter, maybe as a backup. Pace was in charge of pro personnel in NO and had to be one in the front office with the most input to letting him test the open market. Yes, NO wanted him back once he had trouble finding work. Again, he had trouble finding work last year so I think we're over-valuing one of our players. I think we're fine at OG with Slausson and Long. OC can be ok even with Garza but wouldn't be surprised to see us go after another FA here.

 

I am totally open to grabbing a LT with #7 overall. Love the idea of Bushrod at RT and someone like Peat at LT, a big man who is mobile and a nasty run blocker. Not sure his value is there at #7 but I don't think Mills is starting material. Either way it happens, many here see a need to do something at LT and these are players you have to get early in the draft or not at all.

 

Ya, I think grabbing a LT at 7 would be huge for the offense. Also agree that Long should stay put. Addressing the D in free agency would be huge in allowing that to happen.

 

As for WR, I wouldn't hate to see Royal one bit, but with how rookie WRs are transitioning to the NFL I think one can be snagged in the mid rounds and give us just as much as Royal at a few million dollars cheaper. A guy like Tyler Lockette in the 4th would be huge if he gets there.

[Stinger226]

I agree on keeping Cutler as there are just so few options in the draft or FA. I expect to see Clausen as our backup again this year and another player brought in to compete with him and Fales for a roster spot. I do not care for Jake Locker as I watched him all through college and while he's a phenomenal athlete he just doesn't read defenses well.

 

RB…don't see us spending big money in FA here. I don't know what Ingram's market will be, I know it won't be huge but he should be in enough demand to put him beyond the price range I want to spend. I wouldn't rule out a FA RB, perhaps Vereen, but avoid the big expense and keep that cash for defense. Draft a RB in the 4th or 5th Rd to fit in the mix. Carey is an inside runner, he's very quick and that's where he can be most productive and as far as I can tell that fits what Fox likes to do. He should get a chance to compete for the #2 role in camp.

 

WRs…there is no way I see Marshall getting cut. He's still a very productive receiver and, equally important to this new coaching staff, he's an excellent run blocker. Running is going to be a big part of what we do next year. We'll continue to pair him with Jeffrey on the outside but will add a speed guy to compete with Wilson. I actually wouldn't mind some spending some FA cash on this position because I think it's key to getting our offense less predictable. Randall Cobb would fit in well but he's likely getting a huge payday and he's not coming here to be a #3 WR. Eddie Royal fits the bill IMO…2nd tier FA money and different skill set from Marshall/Jeffrey. If that doesn't work out there isn't another good FA fit for what we need so in that case this would likely to be a Rd 4-6 draft pick. Colleges run spread offenses everywhere now and good speed WRs are now available late into the draft.

 

Backup TE: Likely a FA pickup as you state.

 

OL: I don't think they move Long to LT. You have a guy who has been a Pro Bowl player at OG 2 years straight. Why mess with success? We don't know how he'll handle the transition back to LT. I do agree he can play out there just not sure how well he'll do. I don't think De LaPuente returns as a starter, maybe as a backup. Pace was in charge of pro personnel in NO and had to be one in the front office with the most input to letting him test the open market. Yes, NO wanted him back once he had trouble finding work. Again, he had trouble finding work last year so I think we're over-valuing one of our players. I think we're fine at OG with Slausson and Long. OC can be ok even with Garza but wouldn't be surprised to see us go after another FA here.

 

I am totally open to grabbing a LT with #7 overall. Love the idea of Bushrod at RT and someone like Peat at LT, a big man who is mobile and a nasty run blocker. Not sure his value is there at #7 but I don't think Mills is starting material. Either way it happens, many here see a need to do something at LT and these are players you have to get early in the draft or not at all.

Since I have been done with FF, I have been reading everything I can about draft, free agency, all Bears football rumors.

SO FAR: I have read a lot about disruption from Marshall among the players, that his act gets old. From a talent standpoint, he needs to be here, but from a culture standpoint, does Foxys leadership control his antics on a leadership void team?

I would say yes, but if we are rebuilding the team with a 3 year window(Pace said he will build team through draft), Marshall wont be here when we get good.(so I think they move on with him now and displace him with a speed WR(think Emanual Sanders type).

 

I think most people think Long is our LT of the future, so if Pace believes that, why wouldnt they move him now while we rebuild the roster so in 3 years. Put Bushrod at RT wear he fits better and draft the guard of the future now?

 

Garza wont be here when we get good, so A. they cut him, and grab a drafted player or B. bring back De La Puente(who graded out better) that could see be here in year 3 or Bring in a Montgomery who was with Fox in Denver( at 32 I doubt this move)

 

If they think Carey is our power runner, then Vereen makes more sense, but I actually think he costs more money than Ingram.

 

 

So with all of this in mind ( their plans are being based on being good in year 3 of the rebuild)

 

 

we bring in as free agents:

bring back De La Puente

sign Orlando Franklin (can play either OG or OT) young and an anchor in our future

sign Eddie Royal as a stop gap slot/speed WR

sign Virgil Green who could develop into our starter when Bennetts contract is up

sign Cris Culliver/CB will be our starter going forward.

sign Ingram as our power runner for the future.

 

IN free agency the only expensive signe is Franklin and fill several spots with the thought of who will be here in the future

 

draft: If Pace goes by what he says as BPA(used Draft Tex draft information in this scenario) also (GBND big board)

 

1 Shane Ray- our OLB rush LB of the future

2 Arik Armstead/DE lack true 3/4 DEs on the roster

3 Anthony Harris/ SS best saftey on board that can play either position

4 Tyler Lockett/ WR we add another speed WR to the mix

6 Jeffery Whitaker/NT adds more beef up front

7 Adam Shead/OG BPA is applied in this spot

 

 

So this what is looks like: Offense QB Cutler-Claussen-Fales

RB Forte-Ingram-Cary

WR Jeffery-Royal-Lockett-Wilson

OL Long-Slausson-De La Puente-Franklin-Bushrod-Shead-Ola

 

defense DL Houston-Ratliff-Armstead (Sutton-Ferguson-Whitaker-Allen(rush specialist))

OLB Ray-Young-Bass-Washington

ILB Jones-Bostic-? ?

CB Culliver-Jenning-Al Louis Jean-Mitchell

S- Wild card ( we move Fuller to FS) Harris-Mundy-Vereen

 

I think the rebuilding of the team will be to be good in year 3

We can not fill all spots in one offseason

The draft is based on BPA with Draft Tek and GBND as input

 

 

 

[scs787]

Since I have been done with FF, I have been reading everything I can about draft, free agency, all Bears football rumors.

SO FAR: I have read a lot about disruption from Marshall among the players, that his act gets old. From a talent standpoint, he needs to be here, but from a culture standpoint, does Foxys leadership control his antics on a leadership void team?

I would say yes, but if we are rebuilding the team with a 3 year window(Pace said he will build team through draft), Marshall wont be here when we get good.(so I think they move on with him now and displace him with a speed WR(think Emanual Sanders type).

 

I think most people think Long is our LT of the future, so if Pace believes that, why wouldnt they move him now while we rebuild the roster so in 3 years. Put Bushrod at RT wear he fits better and draft the guard of the future now?

 

Garza wont be here when we get good, so A. they cut him, and grab a drafted player or B. bring back De La Puente(who graded out better) that could see be here in year 3 or Bring in a Montgomery who was with Fox in Denver( at 32 I doubt this move)

 

If they think Carey is our power runner, then Vereen makes more sense, but I actually think he costs more money than Ingram.

 

 

So with all of this in mind ( their plans are being based on being good in year 3 of the rebuild)

 

 

we bring in as free agents:

bring back De La Puente

sign Orlando Franklin (can play either OG or OT) young and an anchor in our future

sign Eddie Royal as a stop gap slot/speed WR

sign Virgil Green who could develop into our starter when Bennetts contract is up

sign Cris Culliver/CB will be our starter going forward.

sign Ingram as our power runner for the future.

 

IN free agency the only expensive signe is Franklin and fill several spots with the thought of who will be here in the future

 

draft: If Pace goes by what he says as BPA(used Draft Tex draft information in this scenario) also (GBND big board)

 

1 Shane Ray- our OLB rush LB of the future

2 Arik Armstead/DE lack true 3/4 DEs on the roster

3 Anthony Harris/ SS best saftey on board that can play either position

4 Tyler Lockett/ WR we add another speed WR to the mix

6 Jeffery Whitaker/NT adds more beef up front

7 Adam Shead/OG BPA is applied in this spot

 

 

So this what is looks like: Offense QB Cutler-Claussen-Fales

RB Forte-Ingram-Cary

WR Jeffery-Royal-Lockett-Wilson

OL Long-Slausson-De La Puente-Franklin-Bushrod-Shead-Ola

 

defense DL Houston-Ratliff-Armstead (Sutton-Ferguson-Whitaker-Allen(rush specialist))

OLB Ray-Young-Bass-Washington

ILB Jones-Bostic-? ?

CB Culliver-Jenning-Al Louis Jean-Mitchell

S- Wild card ( we move Fuller to FS) Harris-Mundy-Vereen

 

I think the rebuilding of the team will be to be good in year 3

We can not fill all spots in one offseason

The draft is based on BPA with Draft Tek and GBND as input

 

If you think we won't be good for another 3 years and not spend much money then we might as well cut Forte and Cutler while your at it. I of disagree with your logic but ya if you really think its gonna take 3 years we may as well start draft in qbs and seeing who clicks.

 

I think we compete next year.

[bradjock]

I understand what you mean now, I could see the Bears definitely be bringing in another RB. Pace's saints have a history of finding decent RB after RB for their team. No doubt he will be looking at the position, especially considering Forte's age and being the last year of his contract. I'm not particularly high on Gase's/Fox's ability to gauge the talent of the RB's once they are on the roster. The Broncos almost were in reverse in their RB order last year. Everytime someone got hurt, the next guy in was a lot better. Ball played some what poor, then hillman did pretty well, but then finally CJ Anderson was amazing.

 

I just don't buy into the Marshall thing, and that players can't stand him. I am sure there are some that can't like Gould, but I would guess the reports are blown up a little.

 

I would much rather see DLP also. I just don't think he has many ties with Chicago as he hasn't been here long, and he basically followed Kromer here. Pace was over the pro player personnel during his tenure, and the team let him move on in free agency. That's the main reason I don't think it's a given he will be back.

 

I could see them getting Long to LT in the future, I just don't see them moving him out to the blindside right away. He has dreamed of being a T, and should have a little pull with his high level of play so far at guard. I could see them giving him a shot at RT to see how he does, and maybe move out to LT in 2016 if he excels at RT this year.

 

On RB: I agree with you we'll be looking at it being more of a committee. That's good for everyone involved. I just don't expect us to spend for a FA RB. Look for a cheap older guy with some mileage.

 

Marshall: I have to believe we will take a wait and see approach. When healthy, he's a #1 WR. Those guys are rare. If Fox thinks he can tame it done, drop the Showtime gig, he'll stay. If not, he's gone.

 

Garza: With his extension, didn't his bonus count for last year's cap? In other words, he's real damn cheap this year. Isn't DLP a free agent?

 

Long: One interesting thing about him is that he would be a good offensive tackle, but he could be the best guard in the league. He doesn't make the pro-bowl as a tackle.

[bradjock]

Ya, I think grabbing a LT at 7 would be huge for the offense. Also agree that Long should stay put. Addressing the D in free agency would be huge in allowing that to happen.

 

As for WR, I wouldn't hate to see Royal one bit, but with how rookie WRs are transitioning to the NFL I think one can be snagged in the mid rounds and give us just as much as Royal at a few million dollars cheaper. A guy like Tyler Lockette in the 4th would be huge if he gets there.

 

Getting a LT would be awesome, but it would be a luxury. We have tons of offensive players who would easily start for lots of teams: Bushrod, the Black Unicorn, Alshon Jefferey, Long, Forte, Slauson, and even Cutler and Marshall. The only questionable starters are Garza (because of his age) and Mills (who is real bad). Of course we have nothing at the 11th starter position which would be a FB, TE, or #3 WR. Most of our offensive would quickly be starters on other teams if they became available.

 

What defensive players do we have that would be sought out to be starters on other teams? There's Paea, but is he a one year wonder? Jared Allen and Ratliff are both ancient. Tim Jennings is short, getting up there in age, and had zero interceptions last year. Willie Young was a rotational DE is looked good and then got injured. Lamar Houston's stock couldn't be lower. I'll give you Kyle Fuller.

That's it. Our defense is old a bad. That has to be the focus of the draft.

 

Because of our offensive woes, with the exception of the annual tradition of drafting a 3rd round safety, our defensive picks were pathetic. You look at the defensive guys we drafted in 2012 and 2013, and right now the best of the group is Bostic, and Bostic is bad.

 

[bradjock]

Just an opinion here, but I think they lay down a foundation in free agency and then build on that foundation in the draft.

 

I just got a gut feeling that this team isn't gonna sit on close to 30 million dollars or whatever the number is. Not when your HC is old and your owners are tired of losing.

 

Again this is just my gut feeling here, but I think we'll be major players in FA.

 

As for offensive players, I like some of the names you threw out there. I'm not sure I wanna move Long away from guard though.

 

I couldn't agree with you more. I think what the Cubs have done has made some Bear fans stupid. Especially since the Cubs have yet to accomplish a damn thing. We have the $$$ to sign 3 real good starters in their prime while adding other good players for depth. If we could draft two good starters this year, we're in business.

 

As for Kyle Long, he's a pro bowl guard, and he'd be a real good tackle. I'm good with him at either position.

[Stinger226]

If you think we won't be good for another 3 years and not spend much money then we might as well cut Forte and Cutler while your at it. I of disagree with your logic but ya if you really think its gonna take 3 years we may as well start draft in qbs and seeing who clicks.

 

I think we compete next year.

I think this is what the Bears think. When Pace said (we will build through the draft) that is not a one year plan. If he has two good drafting classes, I think he thinks we compete in year 3. I dont think they think this is a tank year, but bring in some new players and see what shacks out. For Cutler, we have no other options, so I figure they plan to draft a QB in 2016. As far as Forte goes, they may choose to cut him, frees up quite a bit of money, but probably wait one more year until his contract is up. He will be 31, so dont think they have him in the future. As far as competing this year, if they deem we have more talent than it showed last year because of bad coaching, then they may decide to front this year, but hard to know what there evaluation is of our roster. The draft and free agency will go along way at telling what they think our chances are this year.

[scs787]

I think this is what the Bears think. When Pace said (we will build through the draft) that is not a one year plan. If he has two good drafting classes, I think he thinks we compete in year 3. I dont think they think this is a tank year, but bring in some new players and see what shacks out. For Cutler, we have no other options, so I figure they plan to draft a QB in 2016. As far as Forte goes, they may choose to cut him, frees up quite a bit of money, but probably wait one more year until his contract is up. He will be 31, so dont think they have him in the future. As far as competing this year, if they deem we have more talent than it showed last year because of bad coaching, then they may decide to front this year, but hard to know what there evaluation is of our roster. The draft and free agency will go along way at telling what they think our chances are this year.

 

If they dont plan on competing anytime soon then Cutler should be released before more of his contract becomes more gaurenteed. Hell they can go with a guy like Claussen or Matt Moore if they dont plan on competing.

 

In my opinion the offense is gonna be more 2013 than 2014. You draft right and add some key free agents to go along with better coaching and the D very well could be turned around in a year.

 

I think it'd be a mistake not to try to turn it around in a year....Esp since your new HC has already done just that twice now.

[Stinger226]

If they dont plan on competing anytime soon then Cutler should be released before more of his contract becomes more gaurenteed. Hell they can go with a guy like Claussen or Matt Moore if they dont plan on competing.

 

In my opinion the offense is gonna be more 2013 than 2014. You draft right and add some key free agents to go along with better coaching and the D very well could be turned around in a year.

 

I think it'd be a mistake not to try to turn it around in a year....Esp since your new HC has already done just that twice now.

I dont think any team does not have the desire to win all games, it is just the realism that it probably wont happen this year. If we go 8-8, we wont make the playoffs, but a drastic improvement. With so many questions and the worst defense this franchise has ever seen, how do you say (were going for it)? We tried to go for it last year, and free agency was a disaster. There is no way we fall in that situation again. I think we bring in 3 or 4 starters and none big splashes, and then have a good draft. Does that get us to 10-6? I highly doubt it. Name our talent on defense? Other than Young, who is injured, who played well last year? Paea wont be back in the 3-4 scheme. LBers,none, DBs-Fuller in the first month. Way to far to go in one year.

[AZ54]

Since I have been done with FF, I have been reading everything I can about draft, free agency, all Bears football rumors.

SO FAR: I have read a lot about disruption from Marshall among the players, that his act gets old. From a talent standpoint, he needs to be here, but from a culture standpoint, does Foxys leadership control his antics on a leadership void team?

I would say yes, but if we are rebuilding the team with a 3 year window(Pace said he will build team through draft), Marshall wont be here when we get good.(so I think they move on with him now and displace him with a speed WR(think Emanual Sanders type).

 

I think most people think Long is our LT of the future, so if Pace believes that, why wouldnt they move him now while we rebuild the roster so in 3 years. Put Bushrod at RT wear he fits better and draft the guard of the future now?

 

Garza wont be here when we get good, so A. they cut him, and grab a drafted player or B. bring back De La Puente(who graded out better) that could see be here in year 3 or Bring in a Montgomery who was with Fox in Denver( at 32 I doubt this move)

 

If they think Carey is our power runner, then Vereen makes more sense, but I actually think he costs more money than Ingram.

 

 

So with all of this in mind ( their plans are being based on being good in year 3 of the rebuild)

 

we bring in as free agents:

bring back De La Puente

sign Orlando Franklin (can play either OG or OT) young and an anchor in our future

sign Eddie Royal as a stop gap slot/speed WR

sign Virgil Green who could develop into our starter when Bennetts contract is up

sign Cris Culliver/CB will be our starter going forward.

sign Ingram as our power runner for the future.

 

IN free agency the only expensive signe is Franklin and fill several spots with the thought of who will be here in the future

 

draft: If Pace goes by what he says as BPA(used Draft Tex draft information in this scenario) also (GBND big board)

 

1 Shane Ray- our OLB rush LB of the future

2 Arik Armstead/DE lack true 3/4 DEs on the roster

3 Anthony Harris/ SS best saftey on board that can play either position

4 Tyler Lockett/ WR we add another speed WR to the mix

6 Jeffery Whitaker/NT adds more beef up front

7 Adam Shead/OG BPA is applied in this spot

 

 

So this what is looks like: Offense QB Cutler-Claussen-Fales

RB Forte-Ingram-Cary

WR Jeffery-Royal-Lockett-Wilson

OL Long-Slausson-De La Puente-Franklin-Bushrod-Shead-Ola

 

defense DL Houston-Ratliff-Armstead (Sutton-Ferguson-Whitaker-Allen(rush specialist))

OLB Ray-Young-Bass-Washington

ILB Jones-Bostic-? ?

CB Culliver-Jenning-Al Louis Jean-Mitchell

S- Wild card ( we move Fuller to FS) Harris-Mundy-Vereen

 

I think the rebuilding of the team will be to be good in year 3

We can not fill all spots in one offseason

The draft is based on BPA with Draft Tek and GBND as input

 

I see your points but I'm in line with others here in that if, as you say, we are on nothing but a 3 year plan then burn the bridges now and cut guys like Cutler, Forte, Allen. Might as well get as much cap space as possible in 2016. I just don't see our roster as being that bad and unable to compete. So while the draft will play out on a 3 year plan I don't think we go at Free Agency that way at all.

 

Carey is not really a power runner who can run people over but he is an inside runner who is good at finding the little gaps to squeeze into and has the leg drive to gain positive yards. At least in college he was. I didn't see enough of him last year to get a good feel for how productive he can be in short yardage situations but I think he can do it if given enough reps to get a feel for the game.

 

ILB is far too big a need regardless of what defensive scheme we go to and must be addressed in a significant way either through FA or draft and likely both. Given what Pace has said about filling in gaps via FA so he can go BPA in the draft I'd say we see a 2nd tier FA who has been a starter like David Harris. I'd take the money from Mark Ingram and use it for defense. If we're going 3-4/hybrid I think Terrance Knighton makes a lot of sense for us as a FA. He's not going to be that expensive and we have nobody on the roster like him. Those two moves make our inside defense much stronger. A RB can be found later in the draft, or bring in a lower cost FA.

[scs787]

I dont think any team does not have the desire to win all games, it is just the realism that it probably wont happen this year. If we go 8-8, we wont make the playoffs, but a drastic improvement. With so many questions and the worst defense this franchise has ever seen, how do you say (were going for it)? We tried to go for it last year, and free agency was a disaster. There is no way we fall in that situation again. I think we bring in 3 or 4 starters and none big splashes, and then have a good draft. Does that get us to 10-6? I highly doubt it. Name our talent on defense? Other than Young, who is injured, who played well last year? Paea wont be back in the 3-4 scheme. LBers,none, DBs-Fuller in the first month. Way to far to go in one year.

 

This years free agency is MUCH better than last years, perhaps the best ever. If they bring in guys like Rahim Moore, Terrance Knighton, Chris Culliver, and David Harris to go with guys like Kyle Fuller, Christian Jones, Lamarr Houston, Willie Young, Ego Ferguson, Jay Ratliff, and Jon Bostic then couple it with some high draft picks and better coaching the boom, you're cooking with fire.

 

I don't remember where it came from but I truly believe the statement that came out awhile back that the linebackers and the secondary werent on the same page last year. Getting everyone on the same page improves the defense right away. I think with John Fox and Vic Fangio here we are gonna see a disiplined defense with everyone on the same page, and we see a lot of guys like Bostic, Fuller, and Jones improve.

 

I think youre really underestimating what 3 or 4 new starter in FA and a few in the draft with improved coaching can do to this team. None of those FAs iI listed above are splashy names, but they would most certainly improve the D to a respectable level

 

To put that into some perspective, add Harris, Knigton, Culliver and Moore to say Ray and Tartt in the first 2 rounds...thatd set up a starting lineup of

 

DL- Houston-Knighton-Ego/Rat

 

LB- Young-Harris-Jones/Bostic-Ray

 

CB- Fuller-Culliver-Jennings

 

FS- Moore

 

SS Tartt/Mundy

 

That, to me at least, looks like a fairly decent defense.

 

All that at probably under 20 million dollars total.

 

 

 

[adam]

DL- Houston-Knighton-Ego/Rat

LB- Young-Harris-Jones/Bostic-Ray

CB- Fuller-Culliver-Jennings

FS- Moore

SS Tartt/Mundy

That, to me at least, looks like a fairly decent defense.

 

All that at probably under 20 million dollars total.

That is a very solid starting defense and I see that as the low end of possibilities (4 in free agency, 2 in draft).

[Stinger226]

This years free agency is MUCH better than last years, perhaps the best ever. If they bring in guys like Rahim Moore, Terrance Knighton, Chris Culliver, and David Harris to go with guys like Kyle Fuller, Christian Jones, Lamarr Houston, Willie Young, Ego Ferguson, Jay Ratliff, and Jon Bostic then couple it with some high draft picks and better coaching the boom, you're cooking with fire.

 

I don't remember where it came from but I truly believe the statement that came out awhile back that the linebackers and the secondary werent on the same page last year. Getting everyone on the same page improves the defense right away. I think with John Fox and Vic Fangio here we are gonna see a disiplined defense with everyone on the same page, and we see a lot of guys like Bostic, Fuller, and Jones improve.

 

I think youre really underestimating what 3 or 4 new starter in FA and a few in the draft with improved coaching can do to this team. None of those FAs iI listed above are splashy names, but they would most certainly improve the D to a respectable level

 

To put that into some perspective, add Harris, Knigton, Culliver and Moore to say Ray and Tartt in the first 2 rounds...thatd set up a starting lineup of

 

DL- Houston-Knighton-Ego/Rat

 

LB- Young-Harris-Jones/Bostic-Ray

 

CB- Fuller-Culliver-Jennings

 

FS- Moore

 

SS Tartt/Mundy

 

That, to me at least, looks like a fairly decent defense.

 

All that at probably under 20 million dollars total.

I hope your right, its just as bad as we were last year it is hard to gauge the team having potential when we havent seen it all put together yet.