Chicago Bears 2021 Season: 10 hot takes resulting in a playoff run

5. Chicago Bears edge rusher Khalil Mack will see a career-high in sacks

Going back to Desai a little bit, the Bears’ best defensive player sure loves his new coordinator. Just a few weeks ago, Mack had this to say about Desai:

"“…Putting every player on the field in the best possible situation in order to shine and make plays and get turnovers.” (via CBS Chicago)"

Desai truly learned from one of the best in Fangio, therefore he knows what kind of weapons he has on this defense. Not only are we hoping for a bounce-back year from safety Eddie Jackson, but an absolutely dominant one from Mack. Between the two of them, they could ensure the Bears’ defense does what it needs to in order to get back to their 2018 form.

Mack’s career-best sack total came back when he tallied 15.0 in 2015, en route to his first All-Pro bid. Since joining the Bears three seasons ago, Mack’s best year has seen him notch 12.5 sacks. Last year, he totaled just 9.0.

Don’t think Mack hasn’t heard all the talk about his sack numbers dipping in the past two seasons. He’s still been one of the most effective edge defenders in all of football if you ask the pro analytical folks. But, this defense has a different feel to it. The preaching about turnovers and aggression should give us a completely different version of Mack that we haven’t seen yet.

Mark my words: Mack finishes the year with more than 15.0 sacks.