A Bears-Cardinals Trade Could Be On The Horizon
Published by Steve Pauley on April 28, 2010
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears
After the announcement that Pro Bowl guard Alan Faneca would be released by the New York Jets, a collective clamor arose from Bear Nation.
Many believed that Faneca and the Bears would be a perfect marriage. Faneca is a classic “mauler” in the run game, something Chicago has lacked since their 2007 Superbowl run. Not to mention, the Bears have never shied away from signing aging offensive linemen.
These experiments have had mixed results.
Ruben Brown was signed by Chicago following the 2003 season. Brown was voted to the Pro Bowl in 2007 and helped the Bears to their aforementioned Superbowl appearance.
Last year’s experience with Orlando Pace was less successful, as the future Hall of Famer’s run in Chicago was disappointing to say the least.
In fact, Pace’s ill-fated turn in the Windy City could be the reason why management decided against signing Faneca this offseason.
Whatever the reason, Faneca is not a Bear.
Yet his signing with the Cardinals could still benefit Chicago. Faneca’s presence in Arizona most likely means that one of last year’s starters will now be made available.
Reggie Wells and Deuce Lutui have started all 32 games for the Cards over the last two seasons, including Superbowl XLIII.
While neither is considered a premier offensive lineman—Lutui is one of the league’s better run blockers—both are better than our current projected starter at left guard.
Wells, who plays Faneca’s natural left guard position, is more likely to be traded than the younger, more promising Lutui. However, at 29 and 26-years-old respectively, both players should have plenty of solid football ahead of them.
Assuming Wells is the odd man out, the only question will be which team steps up with the best offer.
Would Arizona be enticed by one of Chicago’s spare tight ends?
The Cardinals offense doesn’t feature the tight end—Anthony Becht and Ben Patrick combined for 19 catches in 2009—but Arizona might be in the market for another play-maker after losing Anquan Boldin to the Ravens.
Desmond Clark would be a natural fit in Arizona’s offense due to his blocking skills, and Olsen could provide the big safety net that many coaches want for a developing quarterback.
But could it actually happen?
Chicago contends that Olsen is not on the block. Arizona may decide to keep all three guards. They might see Olsen as an odd fit for their power running game.
There are many factors holding back a potential deal. However, Chicago fans at least have a reason to be optimistic.
They didn’t get Faneca, but they might just get their guard after all.
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