Bears Begin 2012 OTAs
It’s honest to say that the Chicago Bears have not had the best luck the past five years. Inconsistent play and results, key injuries, tarnishing the fan base’s hopes as well as our image as a threat (to say the most) in our rival filled NFC North and NFL in general.
But with all the moves that have been made this off season, I think there is reason to believe that this will change in 2012. And I’m not claiming a championship or a title, but everyone who knows anything is aware that this team is the best we have seen in years.
Why do I think this?
Well for starters, the Bears were playing some of the best football in the NFC North besides Green Bay before Cutler and Forte got injured the beginning of this year. So that is where we left off.
Our management leadership has improved, our depth at RB has improved, and we have a healthy QB who is long overdue at showing his true talent. Brian Urlacher seems to be healing nicely and he’s stated that he is confident in his abilities to perform this season. I’m specifically happy and excited to welcome Brandon Marshall to the roster. I think all Bear’s fans are eager to see him back on the field with a healthy Cutler. And most importantly, the confidence the Bears have as a team, at this point in the off season, is something that cannot be measured, but that I argue makes a huge difference in their performance and preparation for the upcoming season.
Obviously, there are still many reasons for concern. We have an aging defense and offensive line that is below par to say the least. Forte is still holding out which would also be a major offensive concern in the long run, although the contract deadline has been set to July 16th at 3pm. So they only have another month to figure that out. It is also June, and it’s one thing to anticipate a performance, and another thing to actually perform. It happens to teams every year as they develop their new squads and yet fall short. And (this is debatable and I don’t necessarily agree… at all), but some Bears fans are concerned about Lovie Smith’s coaching techniques with this new squad.
But the fact that we are finally confident in ourselves, have a healthy team, depth in much needed positions, a fan base that would do anything for sports and the support of one of the best cities in the country… I’d say it adds up to a much anticipated season. One that the NFC North rivals should prepare for accordingly. I anticipate the Bears winning at least 10 games this regular season.
