Developing Mitch

The Chicago Bears followed a predictable path in 2017:

1. Draft a young quarterback.

2. Expect him to sit while the veteran quarterback plays.

3. Season falls apart, young quarterback plays, coach gets fired.

4. Ownership/management hires quarterback friendly coach.

Enter Matt Nagy for the fired John Fox, who previously was the offensive coordinator of the Kansas City Chiefs and played quarterback in college and in the Arena Football League.  Nagy's job will be to develop Mitch Trubisky from bewildered rookie quarterback into developing franchise quarterback.

Trubisky tossed seven touchdowns and seven interceptions in 2017 while posting a 4-8 record as a starter.  His 77.5 QB rating showed that while he wasn't lost on the field, he wasn't exactly comfortable either.

The Bears defense was the strength of the team in 2017, featuring a quality front seven that made life difficult for opposing teams.  Improving the play of the offense by developing Trubisky and providing him with quality pass catching weapons will be the focus during this 2018 offseason.

Offensive Ranking: 30th

Defensive Ranking: 10th

Key Free Agents:  

Kyle Fuller - CB - A mixed bag of a career.  Fuller has alternated successful seasons followed by injury and disappointment.  The Bears chose not to pick up his 5th year option for 2018, and Fuller responded by having his best season in 2017.  At 25 years old, Fuller is a key piece to retain moving forward.

Kendall Wright - WR - Signed a one year deal last offseason and finished as the Bears leading receiver in receptions with 59.  Another small deal seems likely to provide Mitch Trubisky with a familiar target unless another team steps in.

Prince Amukamara - CB - Turned in a solid 2017 playing on his 2nd straight one year deal and with his 3rd team in three seasons.  What the Bears choose to do with Kyle Fuller will be part of their decision process with Amukamara.  The allocation of cap space to the cornerback position will determine Amukamara's return.

Dontrelle Inman - WR - Caught just 23 passes last season but provides another familiar target for Trubisky.

Potential Cuts/Restructures:  

Mike Glennon - QB - Signed as a bridge starter for the 2017 season, Glennon was unable to hold onto the job for more than four game.  Glennon is scheduled to count $16M dollars against the cap in 2017 and would be the most expensive backup in the league if he's retained.  Cap savings: $11.5M

Markus Wheaton - WR - A three catch season in 2017 typically doesn't get you another year making $5M dollars.  What the Bears do in the NFL Draft will determine if Wheaton is cut for space or allowed to stay for the final year of his deal in hopes of getting something out of the free agent signing.  Cap savings: $5M