9 Postgame thoughts following the Bears 31-30 loss to the Lions

Three final thoughts regarding the Chicago Bears loss to the Lions

Thought No. 7: Jack Sanborn is making the Roquan Smith trade look even better

As bad as the defense has played last Sunday, I would be amiss if I did not acknowledge a terrific game rookie free agent linebacker Jack Sanborn had.

He had two sacks and came up with a huge interception that could have changed the game. Instead, the Bears’ defense got called for an illegal hand to the face by Jaylon Johnson that nullified his pick that could have sealed the game. Outside of Fields, his performance was encouraging.

To be honest, I am not sure what his long-term future holds for him. He still struggles in coverage and was caught out of position at times against the Lions. With Roquan Smith traded, the next seven games will go a long way toward determining his future with the Bears.

Thought No. 8: Cole Kmet continues to produce

Cole Kmet had another strong game, scoring two touchdowns, giving him five touchdowns in the last three games. His emergence as a reliable red zone target is an encouraging sign for Justin Fields and his development.

No one should ever expect him to reach Travis Kelce-like numbers. But he is carving out a nice role in this offense. Given how the wide receivers are struggling to get open, his touches should increase moving forward.

Thought No. 9: The early preview of the next game vs. Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons are coming off a 25-15 loss to division rival Carolina on Thursday Night Game. They have extra days off and the game will be at home. This game will be a homecoming for Justin Fields, who is from outside of the Atlanta area and played briefly at the University of Georgia before transferring to Ohio State.

The Falcons feature plenty of ex-Bears players like Cordelle Patterson and Damiere Byrd. They also have failed ex-Bears GMs, Phil Emery and Ryan Pace in their front office. This game will have interesting storylines leading up to the game.

Six Pass Catchers who could join the Chicago Bears in 2023

The Chicago Bears need talent in many places, but wide receiver might be the biggest need. The team must find a way to add a top-tier WR1 talent.

In addition to Patterson, the Bears will have to deal with talented tight end Kyle Pitts, who has not had a breakout season yet in his second season. Given how poor the Bears’ defense has been, Pitts could go off and have a monster game.

Early score prediction: Falcons 31-28