Chicago Bears Week 11 Dud No. Two: Nicholas Morrow, linebacker
Nick Morrow has been asked to step up and play the Will linebacker position now that Roquan Smith has been dealt to the Ravens. This is one of the most important positions in the Matt Eberflus defensive scheme and Morrow was not able to get the job done against the Falcons.
Jack Sanborn has emerged as the Bears’ best linebacker, and while it is great that he is playing well it is disappointing how Morrow has not stepped up. He is a serviceable linebacker for the Bears, but after his performance against the Falcons, it is clear he will not be the long-term answer at the position.
Morrow finished with four total tackles on the night but really did not affect the game. He was out of position on a couple of plays, and he missed the chance to make some big tackles. He also dropped an interception in the early stages of the game.
Morrow was a good fit next to Roquan Smith, but now as the lead backer on the team, his weaknesses have been more visible. The Bears’ defense is in shambles right now, but as one of the veterans on the team, Morrow needs to play better.
The Bears lack athleticism and speed at the linebacker position. Morrow possesses the speed and athleticism to play sideline to sideline, but he lacks the awareness and talent that is needed for this defensive scheme. While he is a good complimentary piece, his performance today demonstrated that he should be a depth player going forward.