Chicago Bears Week 14 Free Agent Stock Watch
By Tooch
Dec 9, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Josh McCown (12) throws a pass during the third quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
Ringing in your ears louder than George McCaskey, it’s the Chicago Bears week 14 free agent stock watch:
RISING
Josh McCown
McCown cannot be lumped into the “rising” anymore, but instead has created a category of his own — “skyrocketing”. His incredibly strong played continued on Monday night against the Cowboys as he lead the Bears offense to an impressive 45 points. McCown racked up 348 yards and four touchdowns through the air, while also adding a seven-yard touchdown run. There is no longer a question of whether or not the Bears will want to re-sign McCown, but rather can they now that quarterback-deprived teams have taken notice of McCown’s incredible play. His strong play has also taken much of Jay Cutler’s contract leverage completely out of play.
James Anderson
The Bears don’t really have a choice here — they absolutely need to re-sign Anderson. Khaseem Green and Jon Bostic continue to struggle in adjusting to the speed and strength of the NFL game, and Anderson can help bridge the gap until these two are ready to be sure-fire starters for the Bears. Anderson has played fairly well this season, considering the otherwise dismal state of the Bears defense, and will much less pressure and stress on him once Lance Briggs returns.
Jeremiah Ratliff
Ratliff played his most football in a very, very long time on Monday night, taking part in nearly 40 snaps for the Bears defense. The former Cowboy tallied three tackles in the game, including a sack — his first of the season. As I mentioned in Top Free Agents The Chicago Bears Should Retain, I feel the Bears should re-sign Ratliff regardless of what happens with Henry Melton. Ratliff can flourish with a full offseason of training at complete health and can help mentor the team’s younger linemen.
Honorable Mention: Zack Bowman