Jay and Silent Lovie: What to Make of the Chicago Bears’ Wide Receiver Situation
Published by John Harris on June 20, 2009
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears
Things are looking up in the Windy City. There has not been this much excitement over one player in the city of Chicago since Michael Jordan was gracing the basketball court with the Bulls, and winning six championships. For Jay Cutler, these are good times.
However, in the regular season of the NFL, things change every Sunday. Certainly, a Quarterback as talented as Cutler can change the outlook of any franchise but, as with any team, chemistry is a key.
For the Bears to be successful in the NFC North, a potent offense will be a major factor when competing with teams like the Minnesota Vikings and the Green Bay Packers. With the Vikings looking into possibly taking on veteran QB Brett Favre, and the Packers Aaron Rodgers having a breakout season in 2008, the NFC North is looking tougher by the day.
In recent months, since acquiring Cutler, the Bears Wide Receivers have really come into question. Devin Hester has shown a lot of promise in his first year at the position in ’08, and he still has speed that can give any defense trouble, but you have to wonder if he is ready to assume the role as a number one WR.
There are some potential receivers that the Bears could be eyeing, but the response from Bears Head Coach, Lovie Smith, leaves more questions than answers.
Lovie Smith has declined to give much input on the situation other than the standard, “We’re constantly evaluating all players that are out there. I feel good about our team that we have right now. I feel good about the receivers we have right now.” For some Bears fans, they want to hear more.
Here is a breakdown of the potential Receivers the Bears could be interested in.
1. Plaxico Burress – Currently a Free Agent after being waived by the New York Giants.
Why He Would Fit – Burress is a Pro-Bowl WR who helped the Giants win Super Bowl 42. The positives of having a receiver the caliber of Burress is obvious.
The Problem – Burress is currently awaiting trial in New York City for illegal possession of a firearm after accidentally shooting himself in the thigh while at a night-club. With Plaxico’s freedom hanging in the balance, and the possibility of a suspension coming down from Roger Goodell and the NFL, Burress would be a gamble.
2. Brandon Marshall – Currently with the Denver Broncos.
Why He Would Fit – Marshall played the last 3 years with the Broncos and directly with Jay Cutler. The chemistry between the two is strong, and they put up some good numbers together in Denver.
The Problem – Marshall wants out of Denver, but the Broncos may not be so quick to move on dealing him away. They scrambled to make a deal on Cutler, but Marshall does not have nearly the amount of leverage that Jay did. Marshall has another year left on his contract and if the right deal does not come along, the Broncos may hold out.
3. Anquan Boldin – Currently with the 2008 NFC Champion Arizona Cardinals
Why He Would Fit – Like Burress, Anquan Boldin is a Pro-Bowl caliber receiver who helped lead the Cardinals to the Super Bowl this past February. He is a strong athletic receiver who is dangerous after the catch, and would be an instant upgrade at the receiver position.
The Problem – Money. Boldin wants a hefty chunk of change, and while he may be worth it, the Cardinals are still in control of his contract for one more year. He has repeatedly said he wanted out of Arizona, but has still given 100% on the field. After the Super Bowl run, Boldin is probably willing to tough it out and see what 2009 brings.
