Chicago Bears Week 13 Free Agent Stock Watch
By Tooch
Dec 1, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) is tackled by the Chicago Bears defense during the first quarter at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Making you cry more than Knowshon Moreno during the pre-game, it’s your Chicago Bears week 13 free agent stock watch:
RISING
Corey Wootton
It’s hard to positively acknowledge any of the Bears’ defensive players these days, but Wootton has been an exception. The defensive end-turned-defensive tackle has been impressive lately with his ability to bat down passes at the line of scrimmage and get quarterback pressure. He’s completely failed to stop opposing running backs, however that’s been an issue for the entire team this season. Wootton turned in a team-high two pass deflections against the Vikings last Sunday, as well as three tackles and a 1/2 sack. He and Jeremiah Ratliff may be affordable options for the Bears this offseason, as opposed to Henry Melton, who will command much more money.
Josh McCown
Same story, different week. McCown turned in another solid performance against Minnesota, though the offense’s ineptitude in the second half of the game marked his weakest play so far this season. Bears fans would surely like to see him back on the sidelines next season, however McCown may actually garner some interest from teams in desperate need for a starting quarterback (such as the Jets, Browns and Jaguars). I still stand by my initial prediction for McCown and fellow free agent quarterback Jay Cutler though — the Bears will re-sign McCown to a one-year deal and franchise tag Cutler.
Devin Hester
Hester should have given the Bears a victory on Sunday when his 57-yard kickoff return set them up with extremely favorable field position. However, the Bears — as only they can do — managed to give the game away in overtime. Hester has shown glimpses of his old self throughout this season and, outside of a small outburst on the sidelines early on, has maintained a good attitude regarding his role with the team and his contract status. As a Bears fan, I believe the team should give him the opportunity to finish his career in Chicago and play out until his skills have completely diminished.