The "Bear Naked Truth" about Jay Cutler...

Cutler's facial expressions and sideline demeanor get more attention from the media and skeptics than the causes of his anguish...

 

Originally published 7/31/2014

 

Imagine coming to work everyday and your boss who even though was a very nice guy expected you to produce miracle results with co-workers who were goof offs or just not very good at THEIR jobs. Imagine every weekly team meeting being the guy talked about the most as the reason your team wasn't meeting it's goals.  At some point, this gets very old. In some cases, we all can relate to this. Chicago Bears Quarterback Jay Cutler can most definitely relate to this.
Being a fan of the Chicago Bears for a very long time, I've seen the merry go round at Quarterback spin round and round, season after season. After so many spins, it becomes nauseating. In 2009 when a certain strong armed, 26 year old Quarterback (fresh off a Pro Bowl season) was acquired, expectations for a team just 3 years removed from a Super Bowl appearance themselves shot into orbit. 5 years later, one playoff win and a fired head coach later, here we are. The above mentioned Quarterback (Jay Cutler) has endured more criticism than "Sexy Rexy" (Rex Grossman) and has been ripped for everything from his suspect decision making (league leading 26 INTs in 09') and risk taking to his facial expressions and body language on the sideline to his aloof demeanor in post game press conferences and interviews. Are we asking ourselves WHY the young man from Santa Claus, Ind. is exhibiting this behavior? I mean it has to be pretty tough to be expected to make gourmet chicken salad out of chicken crap every season (an offensive line that looked like subway turnstiles, pass catchers you don't trust to come down with the ball for you if they DO run the correct route and offensive coordinators that at times couldn't even get the call in before the play clock expired???). Ladies and Gents, up until last season, this was Jay Cutler's professional life. I mean sure, Cutler isn't totally absolved of criticism for his shortcomings as a Pro passer. We've seen him try to drill a pass through two defenders, hold the ball too long leading to sacks (which also led to fumbles), throwing off his back foot relying on his extraordinary arm strength too much. All of these things are classic evidence of a guy trying to do more than he should have to because his components aren't doing THEIR jobs. Imagine if YOU were under constant duress almost immediately after the ball was snapped or your receivers don't go up and win 1 on 1 battles for the football or your offensive coordinators (which had their own "merry go round" going) were consistently out coached by the opposition. How "cheery" would you be on the sidelines? How much smiling and hi-fiving would YOU be doing? How many stupid questions would you be ready to happily answer from reporters after games? To be honest, if you were smiling, jovial and happy with all this chaos happening around you. I'd think your elevator didn't go all the way to the top.

Cutler has "wowed" spectators with his gifted throwing arm but has yet to put together an elite statistical season together since his Pro Bowl year in 08'

Now let's get to the NFC Championship Game of 2010 where some meatballs starting calling him Jay "Quitler" after his sprained MCL forced him out of action against hated rival Green Bay. This makes perfect sense doesn't it? Take a beating in your 1st two years with the team only to "quit" one game away from the Super Bowl. Brilliant. I'm not going to act like I didn't have my initial questions as I was watching the game and not much information was given during it and all we saw was Cutler on a stationary bike. One thing I didn't question was Cutler's toughness or his heart. His sideline demeanor may have painted a picture of him as a guy that didn't care much and I've had people from the Nashville area that have shared stories of Cutler and his "bratty" ways as an undergrad so he didn't have many positive "character references" up to this point. Add to that the way some felt about him "forcing his way out" of Denver and you can see why this guy wasn't the most popular QB in the game. Lots of perception to overcome right? It gets better...
After leading the league in interceptions in 2009 (with 26), Cutler shaved that number by 10 the following year (in 15 games) to 7 the year after that (in 10 games) to 14 in 2012 (in 15 games). The funny thing is he's STILL regarded as this INT machine for some reason? Some people not only refuse to let go of the past but won't give credit for what's happening right in front of their eyes as well. The trend in the above mentioned stats is games were starting to be missed (after not missing a game in his 3 years as a starter in Denver). With the less than stellar to flat out terrible pass protection he's had to endure during this stretch, it's a miracle he wasn't out longer. After some much needed "housecleaning", after 2012, Cutler was now being put in position to excel. A new mind was put in charge to correct an offense that was at the bottom of the league in most categories. The offensive line was totally reconstructed with a mix of 2 new veterans and 2 rookie draft picks to add to the 1 holdover from the year before. The pass catchers were now boasting legit size and playmakers he could trust to go up and get those 1 on 1 balls in situations you expect your pass catchers to win. Things were turning around for the much maligned signal caller.

Cutler is now leading an offense that was one of the best in the NFL in 2013 and looks to build off it's success in 2014.

2013 was full of ups and downs for Cutler and the Bears. Cutler wasn't available for all 16 games (for the 4th consecutive season) and was in limbo about his future with the team amidst all it's changes. You could notice a change in Cutler's play and he was on pace to have maybe his best season as a Pro until groin and ankle injuries derailed his campaign. You saw a guy trusting what he saw more making better decisions with the football and getting it out of his hands quicker. He checked the ball down if nothing was there and didn't try to force feed longtime buddy Brandon Marshall if he was well covered. He was responding well to the coaching staff and became more of a leader on and off the field often meeting with his offensive unit after practices to learn the new offense and make sure everyone was on the same page. He worked well with the backup QB that played such stellar ball in his replacement and had some fans screaming to run Cutler out of town. Cutler was showing a maturity that comes as you enter your 30s, start a family and are at peace with who you are and your situation around you personally and professionally. It was a "perfect storm" that leads us to the 2014 season. Financial security and a long term contract are no longer a concern for the rifle armed QB as $126 million over 7 years took care of that. Now it's time for Cutler to take care of the organization that has FINALLY "taken care" of him. He has absolutely NO excuse not to be one of the top producers at his position. His main responsibility will be to keep himself physically available for every game this team plays so they'll be in the best position to win. The defense that was an all-time franchise worst against the run  has been injected with veteran and young talent and added veteran coaches to get the most out of the scheme and it's personnel. All the pieces are now in place it's just a shame it took the Bears 5 seasons to figure it out... Thank you for checking this out and get at me on Twitter @nicethegr34t if you have a reply.

Cutler has 126 million reasons to smile, these days, and is poised for a breakout season in 2014

Why fans (and skeptics alike) of Derrick Rose can't have it both ways...

Rose has heard his skeptics loud and clear over the past 2 seasons and says he harbors no bad feelings towards the naysayers...

 

Originally published 7/30/2014

 

The thing about sports and the fans of them is sometimes it's easy to get caught up in "hype". Some people are brainwashed to the point that they forget how easily things can change for the better and for the worse as it relates to the teams they cheer for and the players that play for them. We overvalue and underplay so many different things that it can be hard to determine what we as fans should truly believe. The eventual "return" of one of the better NBA talents the league has to offer is no different. I'm almost amazed, some what stunned and absolutely insulted at how some have "written off" Derrick Rose and the ripe "old" age of 25? The way this man has been mocked by the "meme" community for the hard luck injuries that have robbed him the last 2 seasons has been hard to watch. I won't act like I haven't seen a few that made me chuckle and shake my head at times but it's hard for me to find humor in someone's misfortune. It actually made me think of guys like Yao Ming, Tracy McGrady, Gilbert Arenas and Anfernee Hardaway (to name a few) that were either robbed of longer NBA careers because they were never the same after serious injuries or their careers were cut short because of them. Any true fan of the sport should be happy to see one of the most dynamic talents in the game today embark on his return to glory but Rose's impressive showings this week in Team USA tryouts in Las Vegas have received mixed reactions from fans and skeptics alike. Let's try to breakdown why.
The JerzeeWorld Report archives will show an article I wrote last May talking about Rose's inevitable return from his 1st knee surgery (torn left ACL). As an optimistic fan of the Bulls, I too had my doubts about why Rose didn't attempt to comeback at the end of the 2012-13 season (or in the playoffs). The reality was that if he wasn't able to contribute close to 40 minutes a night at an MVP level his team would've succumbed to the same fate at the hands of the Miami Heat. That, in my opinion, would've been asking too much of a guy you expect to carry your franchise for the next 10-12 NBA seasons. He was absolutely raked across the coals for deciding against it and doing what not only was best for him and HIS career but what is best for the organization writing his check. His mental toughness was questioned. His heart and desire was questioned. After dealing with a whole summer of "why didn't he help his team when they needed him?", Rose pushed his physical limitations to the max and was determined to be ready for 2013-14.

Rose was determined to return to his MVP form after missing all of the 2012-13 season and playoffs...

There was no question about Derrick Rose's work ethic and how he attacked his rehab. Adidas designed a clever line of commercials around the former MVP that gave Bulls fans hope and may have put more pressure on him to return than there already was. Never the less, he was poised to get back to the form that made the jaws of fans drop all over the world. He showed glimpses of what fans remembered about him in the preseason but struggled with his shot through the first 10 games of the regular season before a torn meniscus in his other knee ended his season against Portland in late November. It was another fluke injury that would require surgery and fans and skeptics everywhere uttered "here we go again". The difference in how he approached his rehab this time was his mindset. There was no question in his mind if he'd be able to do it again (come back strong after another knee injury) because he'd just worked his butt off to get back to the point he was before this most recent setback. He paced himself accordingly and again was ready to get back to action on his terms. This is where things get tricky.

It's funny how Rose was attacked by the masses for not coming back when people felt he should have (when the decision is ultimately up to him). Some of these same individuals scoffed at the notion of him competing for a spot on Team USA in Las Vegas this week. Forget the fact that he's been playing competitive 5 on 5 basketball for months. Forget the fact that he's been one of the most impressive players in camp (as told by players, coaches and members of the media). The skeptics would rather question why he's doing it saying "He should be focused on getting ready for the Bulls upcoming season" or "What if he gets hurt again?". In reality, he IS getting ready for the upcoming season by testing his stamina and getting his wind back in addition to knocking off the rust that can build up from just playing 10 regular season games in the last 2 seasons. The fact that he can attack this opportunity with NO physical limitations or restrictions is encouraging and should be looked at as a good thing. First you crush him for NOT coming back when you felt he should and NOW you want to treat him like the Bulls should just keep him in "bubble wrap" until NBA training camp this fall? Unrealistic expectations set by people who ultimately don't matter in the grand scheme. The bottom line is he was bound to step back out on the floor for the world to see at some point. Why not gauge where you are against the best possible competition (if anything, at least at your position)? There is no harm in being cautious and concerned but let's not be ridiculous about it. What some fail to realize is that Rose is only 25 and one of the most gifted athletes to ever play the point guard position if not in the league period. His career isn't to be compared to Andrew Bynum and Greg Oden and is no where close to being over. I applaud Rose for not buckling under the immense pressure to comeback before HE felt his body was ready to endure the physical pounding it's due to take (due to his style of play). I ultimately look forward to how much his game has grown, from an IQ standpoint, being able to see the game from a coaches perspective these past few seasons and how he will adjust his game (with all the offensive firepower at his disposal). This too is reason for excitement. All of the skeptics that are waiting to see Rose get through a full season, I understand that also but know to that even that has to start somewhere and that somewhere is now...

Rose has turned heads in Vegas showing a familiar burst and explosion that fans remember along with a more confident jumpshot (Photo by Getty Images)

A 2014 peak into the NFC North...

The opening of NFL training camp gives every fan of every team hope for a successful season. We'll span each Conference and each Division to see who are the contenders and pretenders, starting with the NFC North.

 Originally published 7/28/2014

The NFC North is an interesting division and one that I can say I know very well (as a fan of one of it's residents). Green Bay has been the toast of the division ever since Aaron Rodgers emerged as the starting QB of the Packers. The Chicago Bears have had a few playoff "glimmers" during that time as have the Lions and Vikings respectively. All 4 teams made off season moves that give their fans reason for hope. Let's tackle the questions that exist.
NFC NORTH
Can Green Bay's defense step back to the front of the cart and help Aaron Rodgers and the offense pull the proverbial wagon to the top of the NFC "Norse"? There is no coincidence that the Packers don't strike the same fear in the hearts of the opposition as they use to. There is NO question that Aaron Rodgers is not amongst the Top tier quarterbacks in the game today but does his team rely on him to do TOO much? The emergence of Eddie Lacy gives Green Bay a reliable rushing threat to take some of the weight off of Rodgers but he is still asked to compensate for a defense that has fallen off of the table since their Super Bowl run of 4 years ago. They are now a team that can be had if Rodgers isn't playing absolutely out of his mind. They do have some talented young players that can improve and should improve but I won't buy into the Julius Peppers hype like he's the 2nd coming to the Reggie White signing (God rest his soul). Peppers does add another pass rushing element (though he's expected to play outside linebacker at the age of 34 after having his hand in the dirt his entire football life) to go alongside Clay Matthews but the question is will he disappear for stretches of games like he did with Chicago the past few seasons? The secondary has been a mess and rookie safety Ha-Ha Clinton Dix should help and possibly give a playmaking element that's been missing since injuries ran Charles Woodson out of town. I still think Green Bay can be a threat to win the division but it would have to be a perfect storm of them doing everything right and their improved division foes absolutely collapsing. The loss of Aaron Rodgers almost cost them their season and I'm not sure how confident fans are about the guys competing to back him up. Matt Flynn and Scott Tolzien don't exactly strike fear in the hearts of opposition so Green Bay's shaky offensive line play will have to make sure to keep #12 safe for 16 games (even more if they make the playoffs).

Rodgers is a legitimate MVP candidate each and every season but his team relies on him to do too much at times...

Can the Bears repeat their offensive success of 2013 and have they done enough to improve a defense that was one of the worst in the history of their existence? To answer the 1st part of the question, I think they absolutely can. Despite starting training camp off with a sputter, this team does return all 11 starters from last year's offense that was 8th overall in yards and 2nd in points scored. They also have the luxury of being able to add on to the plays they like and had success with and trim those that weren't as comfortably executed. Quarterback Jay Cutler isn't under the pressure of playing for a contract (nor is Brandon Marshall now, for that matter) and head coach Marc Trestman is expecting 2nd year wide receiver Marquess Wilson to step up and make plays as the team's 3rd receiver. The defense has a NEW look and the holdovers have a bad taste in their mouth that they can't wait to wash out. The "nasty" that newcomers Lamarr Houston and Jared Allen add to the front 4 will pay immediate dividends and should help the 2 levels behind them make more game changing plays. Allen has been one of the most productive defensive ends the last 7 years and is 2 years younger and more durable than the guy he replaced (Julius Peppers) and Houston has the type of versatility that defensive coordinator covets in a lineman he can stand up in a 3-4 look (referred to as a "Joker"), move inside on passing downs and play end in a 4-3 look. The difference can be noticed after just a few days in camp but will obviously be put to the test in the preseason. The Bears (much like Green Bay) are looking to establish a #2 quarterback behind Jay Cutler (with the departure of last year's hero Josh McCown) that can hold the fort in the event Cutler has to miss a few games (which he has the last 4 season). The Bears have as good a shot to win this division as anyone including Green Bay and I feel they have closed what use to be a gaping talent gap between the two. Time will tell...

The Bears have eliminated any possible obstacle that would keep Jay Cutler from having the best season of his career. All he has to do is stay healthy.

Will a coaching change be enough to turn Detroit into the playoff contenders they believe themselves to be? The firing of Jim Schwartz and hiring of Jim Caldwell could be the change in culture this team absolutely needs to take the next step. The Lions have teased their fan base since making the playoffs in 2011 and are in perfect position to strike (with teams like Green Bay and Chicago retooling poor defenses). This team had absolutely no business choking away a division lead late in the season with Minnesota not even in contention and both Chicago and Green Bay's starting quarterbacks missing significant time yet they did. Quarterback Matthew Stafford has unquestionable arm talent yet questionable decision making that has to drive his team and fans nuts. His dependability on the unworldly talents of wide receiver Calvin Johnson get him in trouble almost as much as it produces play of the week caliber material. This offense features not only the superbly talented Johnson but also the versatile Reggie Bush and new additions Golden Tate and Eric Ebron. The defense has a dynamite tackle combo of Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley that gives opposing offensive lines nightmares while also drawing penalties for being undisciplined. Bringing in a Jim Caldwell could really turn this team in the right direction and help this team beat it's opposition more than it beats itself and that is a scary proposition for not just the NFC North but the NFL period. Stay tuned...

Calvin Johnson lives up to his nickname "Megatron" and may strike more fear than the Transformers character he's named after...

The Minnesota Vikings are just a few years removed from a playoff appearance yet seem to be so far away from getting back there anytime soon. It's odd because when you think about a talent the likes of All-World rusher Adrian Peterson you never want to count this team out. The problem is, at times, that's all they seem to have. "The Christian Ponder experiment" is officially over, with the drafting of Teddy Bridgewater and the defense will look to replace the pass rushing prowess of Jared Allen (hopefully with 1st round pick Anthony Barr). The Vikings offense hopes to get more out of veteran wide receiver Greg Jennings and expect BIG things out of 2nd year pass catcher Cordarrelle Patterson. I think this is a team trying to establish an identity under new, first time head coach Mike Zimmer that may just be the lesser talented team of the 4 in the division. They have more questions than answers, at this point, and I think their fans may want to temper expectations some. They really are just victims of being in a division with 3 other teams that are just better than them right now. I hate to see another year of greatness from Adrian Peterson wasted but I think that's exactly what we'll see as this team will be lucky to win 6 games.

The Vikings hope they have their quarterback of the future in Teddy Bridegwater though veteran Matt Cassell may be the quarterback of right now.

"Camping out 2014" What BEARS to be on the look out for during Training Camp

Originally published 7/25/2014

The Chicago Bears 2013 season was both memorable and forgettable at the same time. For the first time, ever, the offense was a force to be reckoned with and the defense was an absolute laughing stock.  As a fan of this team since the late 70s, I can't ever remember saying both of those things in the SAME sentence. GM Phil Emery was swift and decisive in how he went about his business this off season from everything to re-signing key Free Agents like Jay Cutler, Tim Jennings, Matt Slauson and Charles Tillman to infusing a shot of youthful talent into a defensive unit pretty much left for dead after week 4 of last season with the drafting of Kyle Fuller, Ego Ferguson, Will Sutton and Brock Vereen. The Bears started 2014 training camp this week with 43 NEW faces and look to build off a tremendous offensive showing in 2013 and absolutely burn and bury a defense that made marshmallow cream look like granite.
The NEW faces range from some of the above mentioned draft picks to high profile pickups in Free Agency like defensive ends Lamarr Houston and Jared Allen down to street free agent pickups like Adrian Wilson and Jimmy Clausen. I'll discuss a handful of "newbies" that I'm excited to watch and they range from high profile draft picks and free agents to under the radar street and undrafted free agents. The first guy I want to get an up close and personal look at is 1st round cornerback Kyle Fuller. Like most of Bears Nation, I was hoping Pitt's Aaron Donald would fall to us (taken 1 pick before the BEARS by the Rams) or we'd nab Louisville's Calvin Pryor or Alabama's Ha-Ha Clinton Dix (who I hated to see fall in Green Bay's lap, by the way). I, like many others, didn't see cornerback as much of a priority (with the re-signing of Pro Bowl caliber corners Jennings and Tillman) as much as safety (with the debacle that was Chris Conte and Major Wright playing more like "Minor Wrong" last season). The more I had time to think about it, the more it actually made sense to me. With so many teams relying on multiple WR sets, you can never have too many good corners. Secondly, with Tillman on a 1 yr deal, it only makes sense to have a replacement plan brewing in case this is his last year playing if not for the Bears. Fuller was one of the top corner prospects coming out (even #1 on some experts boards) so the Bears definitely didn't hurt themselves (especially with Donald off the board at their pick). Fuller's ability to play on the outside and inside in nickel situations makes him a valuable asset for a defense featured by Mel Tucker to have multiple alignments and responsibilities for his personnel. The more you can do the better. The Bears have even started things out slowly for the rook by lining him up outside and bumping veteran Pro Bowl corner Tim Jennings inside to play nickel in passing situations. Fuller didn't disappoint in his 1st practice as a Pro with two picks (though off backups Jordan Palmer and Jimmy Clausen) so I'm sure I won't be the only one keeping a close eye on the 14th overall selection in the 2014 NFL Draft.

Rookie Kyle Fuller gives the Bears another playmaker on the back end to mix in and learn from Pro Bowlers Tim Jennings and Charles Tillman.

My thought on why the Bears didn't aggressively seek to upgrade the safety position in free agency (no offense M.D. Jennings and Danny McCray) is that they simply feel with better front 7 play (the D-line and linebackers) the safeties won't be nearly put on the spot as much as Wright and Conte were in 2013. The signing of Ryan Mundy didn't exactly make me beat my chest ( I was hoping for former Panther Mike Mitchell who signed with the Steelers) but I saw it as a solid signing. I eased my hand further away from the panic button when "Uncle Phil" was able to move back into the 4th round of the Draft and snag safety Brock Vereen from the University of Minnesota. Vereen, like Fuller boasts ball skills and athleticism in coverage that at times was M.I.A. from Bears safeties last year. It got so bad that last season's "whipping boy" Chris Conte earned the nickname the "Policeman" (because he was a white man in a blue uniform running after people in every other team's highlights). I actually expect Conte to come back this year with a huge chip on his surgically repaired shoulder and play well. There aren't too many other safeties in the league that would've played much better (considering how bad the front 7 was in front of him). I won't even talk about not hearing the check in that game losing TD given up to Green Bay (though I just did). He isn't doing himself any favors right now not being able to compete for a starting safety spot that once belonged to him but is clearly on the table. This brings me to the next newcomer I'm excited about seeing Adrian Wilson. Skeptics say he's coming off injury and will be 35 this season. Optimists (myself included and obviously GM Phil Emery) see an opportunity to kick the tires on a guy that was one of the most feared (and productive) players at his position (and here's the "kicker") when healthy. By all accounts, the former Pro Bowl safety is "healthy" as the deformity he had to deal with concerning his heel and Achilles tendon is no longer a problem. Phil Emery felt strong enough about a workout Wilson had in June to offer him a 1 yr deal. By all accounts, Wilson doesn't even have to be his former Pro Bowl caliber self (though it would be nice) to be an upgrade at the position and a viable contributor. At 6'3" 230 pounds, Wilson provides the type of thump and intimidation the back end of this Bears defense has been missing since Mike Brown. If Wilson can stay healthy and get the finer details of the Bears defense down (by him being the Pro he has coming into his 14th training camp, I don't expect the latter to be a problem) he essentially becomes "found money" in 2 instances. 1st you add a hammer to the back end of your defense that is an accomplished blitzer and stout against the run and secondly the experience he adds to your safety room would be invaluable for rookie Brock Vereen and even Ryan Mundy. I'm pulling for Wilson to make this team and hope to see him lined up with the 1st team in week 1 against Buffalo.

Veteran safety Adrian Wilson could add an intimidating presence to the Bears secondary if his body and age don't betray him.

The next "newbie" I'll have my eyes on is 4th round pick Ka'deem Carey. The rookie running back from Arizona has a great opportunity to emerge as the #2 running back behind Pro Bowler Matt Forte (who at 28 should relish an opportunity to prolong his career since he'd like to play another 6 seasons). He has a room full of guys to beat out to earn that distinction but this kid has the skills to pay the bills. The knock on him coming out was he doesn't have "top end" speed but tell that to the defenses he ran over and away from during his run in the Pac-12 Conference. It's amazing to me that the running back position has become so de-valued that a talent of Carey's caliber was left hanging around in round 4 but trust me the Bears aren't complaining. Carey may not be a "speedster" (as his 4.7 forty yard dash at the combine showed) but his vision, ability to get to the next level and move the sticks speaks for itself and running behind the Bears very solid offensive line will be a match made in heaven. Michael Ford, Shaun Draughn, Senorise Perry and former NIU star Jordan Lynch may have something to say about it but this should be one of the better battles to watch and one of the toughest competitions in camp.

Rookie Ka'deem Carey is in a crowded boat battling for the #2 running back spot behind Matt Forte but is definitely up to the task.

The 4th guy I've got my close eye on is a guy a lot of people have already slept on (by not drafting him). He finds himself in position to sneak in and snatch one of the available backup linebacker spots if not compete to start at SAM backer. Coming into camp we've heard so much about Jon Bostic and DJ Williams battling it out for the starting middle linebacker spot and how Shea McClellin has trimmed down and in competition for playing time at both MIKE and SAM backer spots and even last year's 4th round pick Khaseem Greene has been said to look good in earlier mini camp practices. The guy I think can surprise everyone is undrafted rookie linebacker Christian Jones. The former Florida State standout comes to the Bears almost like an extra draft pick (if you ask me). It's not very often a 6'3" 240 pound athletic, versatile (played all 3 LB positions and some DE) guy with a 2nd or 3rd round grade falls in your lap AFTER the draft? A diluted urine sample made every team pass on him in the Draft and the Bears could be the recipient (once again) of "found money". At worst, I expect Jones to contribute on special teams, make the ball club and eventually find his was into the mix to contribute on defense this season. This will all depend on how quickly he can adapt to the Pro game (speed of it and it's high volume of information to process) and react and respond to some pretty tough coaching. If he can do his job and let his GOD given talent and ability do the rest, the Bears may have landed themselves a steal.

Rookie LB Christian Jones will go from answering questions about his diluted combine urine sample to can he hold up under the rigors of the Pro game?

I don't want to just mention these 4 Bears newcomers like they're the ONLY guys to keep an eye on, with so many position battles for starting spots still up in the air. The team has to determine who will replace special team standouts Devin Hester and Patrick Mannelly as well as who will punt the ball (between 6th round pick Pat O'Donnell and Tress Way)? 2 starting spots up for grabs in the linebacking core and at safety. Competition should heat up at both defensive tackle spots with veterans Stephen Paea and Jeremiah Ratliff trying to fight off veteran Nate Collins and rookies Ego Ferguson and Will Sutton. Can Jared Allen continue his pass rush assault on NFL QBs? Can Marquess Wilson nail down the #3 WR spot and what other 2 or 3 WRs make the team behind him? Can Brian de la Puente beat out savvy vet Roberto Garza for the starting center position? Is Jordan Mills safe at right tackle or is Eben Britton on his heels? These questions (and MORE) will ALL be answered this preseason and as an avid Bear fan, I'll be all over it! #BEARDOWN!!!

Why there would be no "Love" lost if the Bulls don't deal for Kevin Love...

Originally published 7/25/2014

The Chicago Bulls have had one of the more interesting off seasons of any NBA team. Fans of the team would've bet any amount of money that they were the favorites to land dynamo Free Agent scoring sensation Carmelo Anthony. We all know how that emotional roller coaster ended with Anthony re-upping with his Knicks for the BIG bucks. The Bulls, on the heels of yet another big time Free Agent "stand up" (like LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in 2010 which the Bulls had cap room to land 2 of the 3), seemed to be left out in the cold once again. Luckily Bulls management didn't have all of their proverbial "eggs in one basket". A Draft day trade with Denver landed them Creighton's "All-Everything" Doug McDermott and Free Agency saw them snatch the versatile Pau Gasol off the market. These moves along with the signings of coveted International star forward Nikola Mirotic and diminutive scoring point guard Aaron Brooks suddenly give Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeaux the most offensively loaded roster he's had at his coaching disposal. 2nd year pro Tony Snell showed a confidence and aggressiveness shooting the basketball from behind the arc in NBA Summer League play that the team hopes carries over to this upcoming season along with the aforementioned McDermott (who showed off his effortless range as well). All of the above combined with the "return" of a certain former MVP gives Bulls fans hopes of representing the Eastern Conference in the NBA Finals. Making a move to acquire a certain disgruntled All-Star from Minnesota could change all of that...
When I first heard that the Bulls were back in the hunt for the services of Kevin Love (after signing Pau Gasol and Nikola Mirotic), I was puzzled. the first ting I wanted to know was what kind of package would they have to offer the Timberwolves for them to bite. When I initially heard the likes of Taj Gibson, Jimmy Butler and possibly future 1st round draft picks, my reaction was "do it yesterday"! With the signing of Mirotic and Gasol (in addition to drafting rugged Aussie Cameron Bairstow from New Mexico) Gibson now becomes expendable in my mind. I think the team has gotten excellent mileage out of Gibson and Butler alike and if these 2 could net a 25 year old double-double machine that can knock down the three ball you HAVE to get that done! I think McDermott gives the Bulls a consistent behind the arc threat that can open the floor up for the likes of Derrick Rose and Pau Gasol (when on the floor together). The same can be said for Mirotic. This ALL depends, of course, on how quickly both can play defense at a high enough level to warrant Coach Thibs giving them significant minutes. This is where I started to get concerned and I'll tell you why...

Jimmy Butler (l) and Taj Gibson (r) have become versatile defensive staples for a Bulls team that would miss them dearly if moved for Love

Kevin Love has never been known for his defensive accomplishments on any level. Jimmy Butler and Taj Gibson are versatile defenders that can guard multiple positions at a high level and have shown improvements in their offensive games in the last few years. It's true that Love is a walking double-double waiting to happen with 3 point range and an excellent passer but the Bulls essentially signed 2 players in Gasol (double digit rebounder, great passing Big) and Mirotic (stretch 4 that can knock down the 3 ball) that can give them those same things (plus Pau is more accomplished with his back to the basket). I don't like the idea of the Bulls having to give up 2 players that personify their identity defensively like Butler and Gibson for a player that doesn't play much defense at all. When I heard a report about another potential package involving McDermott and Mirotic, I disliked that option even more...

1st round pick Doug McDermott gave fans a glimpse of his shooting prowess in Summer League play for the Bulls and is a talent the team may want to hold on to...

If you've ever listened to us talk college hoops this past season or heard any NBA Draft previews we've done here on SportzfamRADIO, you KNOW I've been beating the drum for former Creighton sharp shooter Doug McDermott all along. What I saw from him in Summer League play, a few weeks back in Las Vegas, gives me cause for excitement. It's not that he averaged 18 points a game against guys that for the most part won't even be on NBA rosters when the season opens this fall more so what he's going to be able to do when on the floor with Noah, Gasol and most importantly Rose. His long range ability transfers immediately to the NBA and he has legit size (around 6'8") and a nice package of post moves that will make him more than a Kyle Korver type. His biggest adjustment will come trying to defend the most athletic players in the game at small forward (a switch from the power forwards he was obligated to guard in college). His ability to stretch a defense out is a given and something that will give Gasol and Rose more space to operate. I ultimately think he will be a very solid Pro that will fit in nicely with this Bulls team.

The 6'10" Internationally acclaimed Mirotic has been on the Bulls radar for the past 4 seasons and is finally signed, sealed and ready to deliver...

Then there is the above pictured Nikola Mirotic who Bulls fans have been waiting on and are anxious to see. Mirotic is in the same boat as McDermott as far as having to adjust to the NBA style of play (more specifically on the defensive end) but his ability to step behind the arc and flush three point shots can pay immediate dividends for a team that needs any offensive boast it can get. I'm not a fan of trading 2 guys that can space the floor for 1. People may say "well you don't know what kind of Pros McDermott and Mirotic will be?" to that I say I know what they CAN do right now and I know what Love is NOT good at (and never has been). Think of the versatility you have as a Bulls fan if you stand pat and deal neither package presented (either Butler, Gibson and picks or McDermott, Mirotic and picks). You either move 2 top flight defenders for a guy that doesn't play defense particularly well or trade 2 potentially outstanding offensive players (from behind the arc especially) for one? This on top of already signing one of the better power forwards available this summer in Gasol (even at 34 and coming off a season hampered by injuries). I'm just not in "Love" with the possibility, either way. Get at me on Twitter @nicethegr34t ...

BEARS take their 2-0 act on the road to face struggling Steelers...

 September 21, 2013

There is something special about the NFL. Unlike their sports counterparts in Major League Baseball and the NBA, Pro Football teams have only 16 regular season contests to get it right. The 2013 version of the "Monsters of the Midway", under 1st year Head Coach Marc Trestman, have a completely different look (even after just 2 regular season games). Unlike the 2012 version that dominated defensively yet struggled to score like the school geek on Prom Night, this team seems to be a complete opposite. Trestman's troops are currently struggling defensively (generating a consistent pass rush and stopping teams on 3rd down) and making BIG plays late in games offensively to win them. With home wins over Cincinnati and Minnesota, the Bears must avoid the lull of playing a struggling Pittsburgh Steelers team that is having it's own issues generating offense. 

 

 

Bears All-Pro Brandon Marshall makes a return home to play the team he cheered for as a youth...

The Bears know that communication is going to be the biggest challenge, going into a hostile environment with 2 rookie starters on their offensive line. Though Kyle Long and Jordan Mills have played well, the multi-look, blitz heavy Pittsburgh defense provides it's own challenges in addition to the crowd noise. The offensive line, formerly a huge issue for this team, is reconstructed and "under new management" (in Aaron Kromer) and we saw how the unit struggled last season against the Packers and Niners (who also run a 3-4 look). I'm confident that if there are some "growing pains", early, that the unit will work quickly to get on the same page. One thing I have been impressed with in this group of coaches is there ability to make adjustments when there are struggles. Quarterback Jay Cutler will have to be particularly careful with where he goes with the ball (especially if under duress early) and not revert back to bad habits he's showed when under pressure in the past. Steelers Saftey Troy Polamalu (though up in age) is still a disrupter in the secondary and lines up all over the field. The Bears will have to know where he is at ALL times.

 

 

Coach Marc Trestman (pictured to the right) makes it his duty to be on the same page with his signal callers, historically...

The Bears defense has issued an All Points Bulletin for the missing production of Pro-Bowlers Henry Melton and Julius Peppers who have the same amount of sacks as I do through 2 games (Zero). These guys are too talented and well compensated for their services and will need to get it going ASAP. Melton is looking for a contract extension for big money, after the season, and Peppers needs to answer the bell and quiet the skeptics that feel he's just a shell of what he once was (one of the most dominant rush men of his era). The front four has to do the heavy lifting to allow the back seven to make plays in this defense, though Defensive Coordinator Mel Tucker likes to mix in an exotic blitz here and there. If the Bears are to win this game, they must not only get to Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger they must harass his throwing arm (force sack fumbles) because he is a load to bring to the turf. My logic is, you can't proceed without the "pig". If you get there, attack the football! This game spells "trap" because Big Ben is the type of Quarterback that can exploit the Bears woes defensively on 3rd down and if the rush isn't a factor that leads to open receivers downfield. Ben is great at making time, and when he has to, TAKING time to make plays with his legs or his arm. On the other side, the Steelers struggles in the run game could put them in a ton of obvious passing situations and the Bears pass rush could wake up this game and be a force. I'm hoping the Bears can keep surging and getting better each week. Take care of business here and it sets up a date with Detroit and a chance to go up 2-0 in the division.

 

 

The Bears will need Peppers (to the left) and Melton to get their customary pressure on the Quarterback for this defense to be successful...

 

 

BEAR Naked Truth’s Top 10 most exciting Chicago Bears since 1979

                                                                June 2, 2013 

 It’s ironic that this list is being unveiled on a “Throwback Thursday”. My original intention was to reveal these 10 players to my listening audience on “BEAR Naked Truth” the night before. Sometimes the cards just fall into place perfectly. This is not a disclaimer of any sort but merely a reminder that I can remember watching and cheering for the Chicago Bears back as far as 1979 (at the age of 5). With that revelation, keep in mind that the players listed are simply my Top 10 that I had the privilege of watching play LIVE. There will be some that may only agree with half of my list and some that may agree with an even lesser number and I’m okay with that. That’s the beauty of it being MY list. Feel free to share your opinions, either way, just keep in mind we may have come up in different eras and maybe didn’t see the same players at the same time. I was very excited about putting this list together and by NO means is a list of my All-Time Greatest Chicago Bears. This is simply my Top 10 favorite BEARS to watch since 1979. I just wanted to say that again.

# 10 arrived in 1982 as a 4th round Draft pick out of Baylor University. He was a diminutive running back (5’8″ 181 pounds) that ended up playing some wide receiver as well. Though his numbers never “dazzled” you, he was a workhorse that always seemed to make plays either running with or catching the football. He was most noted for his kick return ability and led the NFL with a robust 28.8 yards per return average in 1986. He was Percy Harvin (minus the migraines) before Percy Harvin and if you ever used the BEARS on “Tecmo Bowl” for Nintendo you’ve probably returned a kickoff or two for a touchdown with him. He is Dennis Gentry …
       

 
 

# 9  took the league by storm, right out of the gate, returning a punt for a touchdown in his first NFL game. He arrived with a lot of promise out of the University of Miami as a 2nd round pick in 2006. He would go on a kick return onslaught unlike any the NFL has ever seen. He’s led the league in punt returns for touchdowns three different times and was the first player ever to return the opening kickoff for a touchdown in the Super Bowl. The Bears are hoping he can return to the All-Pro return man he’s been three times in his career already and is MUST see TV when the opposition kicks him the ball. He is the All-Time Leader in punt returns for touchdowns with 12 and is a 3x Pro-Bowler and NFL All-Pro returner. He is the electrifying “Windy City Flyer” Devin Hester …
 

 
    

# 8  is one of my favorite Bear players of All-Time and was robbed of a longer NFL career because of various injuries. There was no question that this hard hitting safety would fit in right away as a 2nd round pick out of Nebraska in 2000. This guy was an absolute play-maker that not only had a nose for the football (20 career interceptions) but also a nose for the end zone (with 7 career defensive touchdowns). He is remembered for having back to back games with “walk off” pick sixes and always seemed to make a BIG play for the Bear’s defense every time he got his hands on the football. I wish he could have retired a Chicago Bear .He is ball hawking safety Mike Brown …
 

  
  

# 7   is one of the more under rated players in Bear’s history, to me. He wasn’t a very popular 1st round pick out of the University of Florida in 1986. Looked to be the “heir apparent” to the legendary Walter Payton, this running back would quickly make a name for himself earning 4 consecutive trips to the Pro-Bowl from 1988 to 1991. He literally was the Chicago Bear’s offense and was fluid with the ball as a rusher and a receiver out of the backfield. His retirement at the age of only 29 surprised all Bear fans and even though he only played eight seasons he’s still regarded as one of the best to play the position for the Orange and Navy. He is Neal Anderson …
 

 
   

# 6  was a rare combination of speed, size and athleticism for his position and would solidify his position amongst the greats when his playing days were done. You weren’t really sure what to do with him on defense but you knew he was going to be on the field and making plays. He might’ve been the LeBron James of middle linebackers combining the size of a defensive end with the speed of a safety. His ability to cover large amounts of space in short amounts of time helped him put in 13 solid years for the Monsters of the Midway. He won Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2000, as a 1st round pick out of the University of New Mexico, Defensive Player of the year in 2005 and finished his career as an 8x Pro Bowler and 4x NFL 1st team All-Pro. He is Brian Urlacher …
 

  
   

# 5  was one of the most popular players of his era and one of the toughest cats to play his position. He was known as much for his off the field antics and rock star image as his ability to win ballgames. He arrived in Chicago as the 5th overall player selected in the 1st round of the 1982 draft out of BYU and went 46-15 as a starting quarterback for the Bears. It wasn’t always pretty but Bear fans always appreciated his toughness and he will always be celebrated as Chi-Town’s “Punky QB” and Super Bowl Champion. His rebel image earned him tons of endorsements as he was fun to watch and a true leader of his troops. He undoubtedly is responsible for half of the grey hairs in Coach Mike Ditka’s head. He is the one and only Jim McMahon …
 

   
  

# 4   was an absolute wrecking ball in shoulder pads and one of the hardest hitters I’ve ever seen. He was originally drafted in the 10th round of the 1976 draft by the Miami Dolphins as a wide receiver out of Yale and later cut. He was picked up by the Bears that same season and would be the team’s starting strong safety the following season. He would go on an 11 year reign of terror against ball carriers and receivers alike and his bone crushing hits landed him on many a highlight tape (back when the NFL glorified the violent nature of it’s sport). He made his 2nd consecutive Pro-Bowl in 1981 and was voted 1st Team All-Pro after picking off 6 passes. He would snag 38 picks for his career and truly lived up to his well earned nickname “The Hit Man”. He is “Mr. Clean” Gary Fencik …
 

 

# 3  was just an absolute terror and had to give left tackles nightmares the night before games. Many, at the time, didn’t know what to make of the lanky 8th round draft pick in the 1983 draft out of Tennessee State. He would show the league he meant business in just his second year racking up 17.5 sacks in 16 games (only 10 starts). He made his 1st Pro-Bowl in 1984 and followed that season up in 1985 with 17 more sacks (to lead the league) and earn his 2nd consecutive trip to Honolulu and 1st Team All-Pro. He was an absolute menace that disrupted the rival’s passing attack with his fierce pass rush off the edge and would quickly become one of the anchors on the great Bear’s defenses of the 80s. He’d top the 1985 season off with a Super Bowl MVP trophy and notched 124.5 sacks in 170 games with the Bears. He is none other than the “Sack Man” Richard Dent …
 

 

# 2 arrived in Chicago as a slow, undersized middle linebacker out of Baylor drafted in the 2nd round. He would play with an undeniable chip on his shoulder for his entire career and he used it to knock the blocks off the competition. He would become one of the most feared and respected players of his generation and his intensity was a lightening rod for the defenses he captained. His intense looks would pierce the souls of quarterbacks and running backs alike and became a trade mark of his intimidation just as much as his ferocious hits. He would carry the torch of legendary middle linebacker play in Chicago earning 2 Defensive Player of the Year Awards (in 1985 and 1988), 10 consecutive trips to the Pro-Bowl and named 1st Team All-Pro seven times. He was the undisputed leader of one of the fiercest defenses the NFL has ever seen and his career is rivaled by few. I had a chance to meet him at a Revie Sorey Football Camp as a youth and he was as mild mannered and humble as one could be. He spoke to our group and had a bunch of 12 to 14 year olds ready to run through walls. I was amazed at the meekness of this man with broad shoulders and the big glasses that made him look like he and Harry Carey had the same optometrist. Surely this wasn’t the same mad man I saw “jaw jacking” and knocking guys out on Sundays and Mondays ? He is one of the most menacing defensive presences I’ve ever witnessed. He is Mike Singletary …
 

 

# 1 was not only the my most exciting Bear to watch he was my favorite player of All-Time period. He arrived in Chicago as the 4th overall pick in the 1st round of the 1975 draft and would carry this team for 13 years, mostly through lean times. He was the consummate “work horse” at running back leading the NFL in rushing attempts 4 consecutive years for 1976 to 1979. He led the NFL in rushing yards in 1977 with an incredible 1,852 yards and rushing touchdowns with 14 in just 14 games. He averaged a ridiculous 132.3 rushing yards a game that season earning his 2nd of what would be 9 Pro Bowl appearances, 1st of 2 NFL MVP Awards and 2nd of 5 First Team All-Pro honors he would receive in his illustrious career. He amazingly only missed one game in his career, despite being one of the most physical runners in the history of the NFL. His willingness to not go out of bounds without hitting defenders and his notorious stiff arms on would be tacklers were as famous as his “high step” en route to the end zone. He retired as the All-Time leading rusher in 1987 after amassing 16,726 yards and rushing for 110 career touchdowns. He also has 492 career receptions to his credit. He was one of the most complete football players of his generation and was as accomplished a blocker as he was a runner and receiver. He’s even thrown 8 touchdown passes in his career making the halfback pass a very dangerous option in the Bear’s playbook back then. He is simply the Gr34test of All-Time, in my book. The man, the myth, the legend. He is Walter Payton …