If the Chicago Bears hope to improve on their 3-13 record, the worst in franchise history in the 16 game regular season era, the defense must lead the way.
While the offense tinkers with new pieces at quarterback, tight end and wide receiver, the defense must be ready week one to leave the depths of mediocrity that has plagued Chicago since losing the 2010 NFC Championship game.
The defense was better than average and improving last season until injuries devastated the unit. Chicago’s defense finished 15th in yards per game, but were a top ten unit before injuries took their toll. Eddie Goldman, Leonard Floyd, Danny Trevathan were just a few starters that missed time.
As players hit the field in Bourbonnais this week, there was both good and bad news on the injury front. Danny Trevathan is ahead of schedule in his rehab from a serious knee injury. Many expected Trevathan to begin camp on the PUP list. However, Pernell McPhee was put on the PUP list Wednesday and underwent a medical procedure on his knee on Friday July 28th. More concerning is the fact the procedure was not on the same knee that kept him from playing most of last year.
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When healthy, the Bears front seven is formidable. Staying healthy will be critical for the Bears if they hope to improve on what can only be described as a dismal two years under coach Fox.
Additional help for the Bears defense did not come from the draft as many fans anticipated. GM Ryan Pace opted to put his career on the shoulders and arm of second overall pick, Mitch Trubisky. Help for the defense arrived in free agency with the additions of Prince Amukamara, Marcus Cooper and Quintin Demps. Kyle Fuller hopes to find the form that made him a first round selection in 2014. The Bears declined to pick up the fifth year option for 2018, so Fuller has his work cut out for him.
Coach John Fox is reportedly happy with the roster. After a two-year record of just 9-23 in Chicago, it is now time for the Bears to turn the corner and make a run to make the playoffs this year.