Nov 27, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall (15) on the sidelines during the first quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
In 2011, the Bears were blessed with this star-studded receiving corps: Dane Sanzenbacher, Earl Bennet, Roy Williams, Johnny Knox, and Devin Hester. Guess who lead the Bears in receiving touchdowns in 2011. Was your answer Dane Sanzenbacher? Because the answer is Dane Sanzenbacher. Three. He had three receiving touchdowns and he lead the freakin’ team? That’s ridiculous. Granted, Jay Cutler only started 10 games in 2011. I’m aware that Caleb Hanie and Josh McCown finished the season, so I know that skews the Bears offensive statistics for that season. Does anyone remember asking for more McCown/Bell? Anyway, the point I’m trying to make is that before Brandon Marshall’s arrival in 2012, the Bears receiving corps was almost bereft of talent.
The trade came out of nowhere, but I was absolutely ecstatic. I clearly remember thinking, “We just robbed the Phins’.” A player that truly fits the mould of an X (no.1) receiver. Big. Strong. Explosive. Good hands. AND, he has history with Cutler. For two third round picks? Phil Emery made out like a bandit.
He didn’t come to Chicago with a particularly good reputation, but he was welcomed with open arms. No one thought anything of his past off-the-field troubles, because if there was one coach that could keep egos in check, it was Lovie Smith. He commanded respect in the locker room.
In 2012, (Marshall’s first season in Chicago) it became pretty clear that Jay Cutler’s ex-teammate was his new favorite target. In fact, he targeted Marshall nearly 200 times. He finished the season with 11 touchdowns, and in 2013, he finished with a career-high 12 touchdowns. But, I didn’t write this to talk about his abilities as a player. We know he’s capable. Heck, he may even be the best possession receiver in the league when he’s healthy.
Since coming to Chicago, Marshall’s completely turned around his image. After being diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, he did what a lot of people can’t do–help themselves. He’s done an excellent job of bringing the topic of Mental Health Awareness to light. I loved the green cleates, personally. Marshall is genuinely interested in helping others, on and off the field. He knows the importance of growing closer as a team, he regularly gathers teammates to work out with him in Florida during the off-season.
This past season, it’s fair to say there was a clear lack of leadership within the ball club. You can’t fault Marshall for attempting to be a leader. Jay isn’t that type of guy, but neither is Eli Manning, Joe Flacco, or Matt Schaub. As far as “distractions” go, I’m pressed to find one instance of Brandon Marshall’s “antics” since arriving in Chicago. The Twitter thing? So what, it’s social media. These players are scrutinized constantly, their personal Twitter accounts shouldn’t be taken seriously. All he did was call out some Keyboard Warrior; nothing actually happened. Let it go, Bears beat writers. I recently read that someone considered Marshall signing his contract on ‘The View’ to be a distraction. Marshall was there to sign his contract and discuss his Mental Health Awareness with his wife. Are you kidding me? A distraction? Let the man live his life, for crying out loud.
Whether the Bears are rebuilding, or find themselves in a transition phase, Brandon Marshall is a guy you want on your team. From a football standpoint, he produces. John Fox has been around the block a few times, he’s dealt with all types of football players. Marshall won’t be any different. When he returns to form next year, people will have forgotten all about a spat on Twitter.
I can understand the argument for a trade, but cutting him? Get real.