2010 Team Outlook: Chicago Bears

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Chicago Bears: At the beginning of the 2009 season there was much hype and attention placed on the Bears, rightfully so, for the first time in a long while the team had a legitimate threat at quarterback with the addition of Jay Culter.  But, with an terrible losing streak from weeks 9-12 the Bears fell short of their expectations, failed to make the playoffs and put coach Lovie Smith on the hot seat.  So how will the 2010 campaign shake out for the bears?  Well I predict that they will finish better than last year's 7-9 record and heres why: Mike Martz.  


He may not have the best record as a head coach, but this guy knows offense (see St. Louis Rams circa 1999-2002) and paired with the cannon-armed Culter, the offense should not have any trouble keeping the chains moving.  At wide receiver the Bears would be wise to start Devin Aromashodu and Earl Bennett. Aromashodu really came on at the end of last season and I think it would behoove Martz to keep him on the field.  Hester is a great weapon and should see some more balls and be close to 70 receptions this year.  An improved passing game should allow Matt Forte to break out of his sophomore slump and return to form.  Defensively, guess who's back?  After missing all of 2009, Chicago's man in the middle, Brian Urlacher, is back. He will be hungry to prove that he's still an elite backer and will definitely help a defense that gave up close to 25 points per game last year.  All was not bad for the D last season as linebacker Lance Briggs was selected to the Pro Bowl.  Other than Urlacher the Bears will bring defensive end Julius Peppers to the field, he was signed in March.  This is huge, if he can continue do what he's been doing and get about 10 sack this season, then the D will be markedly improved.  Chicago plays in the NFC North, one of, if not the toughest division in the NFL.  I don't think the Bears are yet ready to overcome the Vikings or Packers as the class of the division, but with a couple of breaks they could be fighting for a wild card spot at year's end.  

Key Pickups: Offensive Coordinator Mike Martz, Defensive End Julius Peppers and Tight End Brandon Manumalema

Key Losses: Defensive End Alex Brown, Fullback Jason Mckie, Defensive End Adewale Ogunleye, Offensive Tackle Orlando Pace, Cornerback Nathan Vasher

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