Chicago Bears 2016 Midseason Awards

Offensive player of the year: Alshon Jeffery

Injuries and inconsistency have been the story of the offense for Chicago. However, there has been one player whose impact has been felt in every game, Alshon Jeffery. His numbers haven’t been anywhere near what he is capable of, but that isn’t entirely his fault.

For the vast majority of the year, Jeffery has had Brian Hoyer under center. While Hoyer put up significant numbers, he was dreadful when it to came to the deep ball. Unfortunately for Jeffery, the deep ball is how he opens up the field. Despite the best part of his game being taken away, Jeffery managed over 70 yards a game in 4 full games with Brian Hoyer.

It may be no coincidence that Jeffery logged his first touchdown when Jay Cutler returned in week 8. Jeffery logged a 34 yard fade route which opened up the middle of the field for his touchdown on a slant route.

However, Jeffery’s biggest impact has been opening up his fellow receivers. Despite the deep ball being all but out of play, Jeffery still managed to stretch defenses and open up his fellow teammates. While Eddie Royal, Cameron Meredith, and Zach Miller all have good qualities, they have all been significant beneficiaries to Jeffery’s presence on the field.

Through it all, Jeffery is still the leading receiver by nearly 200 yards. Without him, the Bears offense would be all but dead.