Chicago Bears: Projecting Five Breakout Players
ILB Jonathan Bostic
Aug 14, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Jordan Todman (30) is tackled by Chicago Bears inside linebacker Jon Bostic (57) during the first half of a preseason game at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Bostic has been a target for criticism in his 2 year Bear career. He’s been out of position at times, struggled in coverage down the seam and has been part of the reason why this defense has been non-existent for the past 2 seasons.
However, did the Bears fail him or did he fail the Bears? I’m putting more of the blame on the Bears, sorry. Bostic has moved around so much at each position in his young career, I’m not sure if it’s responsible to criticize him as much as fans have.
Going into his 3rd season, Bostic has started 17 games, battling injuries and incompetent coaching along the way. With the predictability of Mel Tucker’s defensive scheme, it’s enough to turn Mike Singletary into Barry Minter. Have we really seen the best of Jon Bostic? I don’t think so.
BGO’s own Mike Flannery did a piece on which Bears will succeed in Fangio’s scheme and Bostic was high on the list:
"The Bears moved Bostic all over the place this year playing him at all three LB positions. I think it hurt his development, but they finally decided to put him at MLB for the last three weeks of the season and his play improved significantly. In college Bostic played ILB in a 3-4, so he could be more comfortable if the Bears switch to Fangio’s old scheme."
Not to ride Mike’s coat tails, but I agree and look forward to Bostic’s improvement in 2015.
What do you think, Bears fans? Who are your break out predictions in 2015? Let us know in the comment section below.
Next: Potential Breakout Players: Zach Miller