2011 Chicago Bears Roster Turnover: Offensive Tackle

by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Feb 3, 2011 11:01 AM CST in Roster Analysis

In this ongoing series I'll take a look the Chicago Bears on a position by position basis, all to better get a handle on how their 2011 roster should shape up. I usually like to tackle the offense first, starting with the skills positions, but after the year the Bears had I wanted to get into the offensive line as soon as I could. On Tuesday I looked at quarterback, but next up is offensive tackle.

Frank Omiyale -signed through 2012 - Signed to play right tackle, then moved to guard, then back to right tackle, then over to left tackle. Omiyale has gained some experience the last couple of years and will be a valuable part of the line next season, but it might be in a reserve role. I expect him to have a shot to compete at one of the tackle positions.

Pro Football Focus had Omiyale as their 75th ranked tackle, just below Sam Baker and above Marc Columbo. His 12 sacks allowed was tied for worst among tackles. The Bears need an upgrade at LT in 2011. When I graded out all the Bears linemen after their week 15 game against the Vikings Omiyale had 5 negative plays out of 61. PFF had his overall grade that week at -3.1. Here's the explanation of their grading system, whereas mine is a simple plus/minus. In theory, the discrepancy in our grades can be explained this way. If PFF gives a zero (an average play where the player simply does their job), but on the same play I give a plus (he did his job). They are much more detailed in the way they grade.

J'Marcus Webb - signed through 2013 - Webb played real good for a 7th round rookie, unfortunately for a starting RT in the NFL his play wasn't up to par. It's very possible that Webb can make a jump in play in year 2, he has that kind of potential, and with rumors pointing to him having a shot at the left tackle job he'll need to improve.

PFF had Webb ranked even lower than Omiyale, at 77. He gave up 11 sacks and gave up the 6th most QB pressures from the tackle position. He's athletic and young enough to be a building block moving forward, but he's still raw.

Kevin Shaffer - signed through 2011 - Shaffer is a solid swing tackle that has a home in goal line and short yardage packages. He had 3 starts at RT earlier this season and only gave up 1 sack. PFF had him with a negative grade on the year, even the game he shut down Clay Matthews in week 3.

Herman Johnson - signed through 2011 - The "House" is a big body that needs some work, but the Bears saw enough to bring him in during the 2010 season. Maybe a future at right tackle, or if he can get his weight down maybe guard... I think he's a long shot the Bears gambled on and time will tell if he can stick in 2011.

Levi Horn - signed a reserve/futures contract - Horn will be a camp body and have a shot at making the practice squad next year.

2011 OUTLOOK - Tackle will be a high priority in the Draft, and may be the Bears 1st round selection. It's a good group of tackles coming out of college and at 30 Chicago should get a quality prospect. Former #1 draft pick Chris Williams may get a position switch back to tackle to try and live up to the left tackle promise he showed in 2009. I wouldn't expect the Bears to target any free agent tackles this off-season.

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Omiyale, Williams, & Webb

They all could be in a different position next year.

It wouldn’t surprise me a bit to see Webb and Omiyale flip flop.

It wouldn’t surprise me a bit to see Williams get another shot at LT.

It wouldn’t surprise me a bit to see the Bears draft a tackle with their first pick.

Essentially, this will be an interesting watch throughout the off-season.

by rdent4hof on Feb 3, 2011 11:46 AM CST reply actions

It wouldn't surprise me

If they draft a DE with the first pick. JA can’t pick talent.

by Minds_Eye024 on Feb 3, 2011 1:21 PM CST via mobile up reply actions

I would insert "offensive" in there.

JA can’t pick OFFENSIVE talent.

If I did what I love for a living, what would I do in my free time?

Writer at windycitygridiron.com {-/-} http://www.twitter.com/kdoggers

by Kev H on Feb 3, 2011 3:31 PM CST up reply actions

Then what about Matt Forte????

I believe Angelo selected him

Erik Duerrwaecter

by Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter on Feb 3, 2011 4:12 PM CST up reply actions

One lucky pick...

In a sea of mediocrity.

by Doshi on Feb 3, 2011 4:41 PM CST up reply actions

Devin Hester / Greg Olsen?

Olsen isn’t the best TE theres ever been, but he’s certainly better than a lot of them, especially if he continues to improve his blocking. And Devin Hester isn’t the best WR the way he is utilized, but come on, he does hold an NFL record.

E.F.K.

by DaBearBus on Feb 3, 2011 4:49 PM CST up reply actions

Yes

Angelo has made a few good offensive picks. But the bad far outweigh the good.

Forte, Hester, Olsen, Knox, Bennet

vs.

Terrell, Grossman, Berrian, Benson, Bradley, Wolfe, Iglesias

Add in the offensive line busts, of which there are many, and it’s even worse. Especially to see some of the players taken after those busts.

In short, in life, as in a foot-ball game, the principle to follow is: Hit the line hard; don't foul and don't shirk, but hit the line hard!" Theodore Roosevelt

by LRT on Feb 3, 2011 6:01 PM CST up reply actions

Hester was selected as a db originally.

Great call there Angelo.

If you can't laugh at yourself you must not be very funny.
I remain a pessimistically hopeful Bears fan.

by Just Dave on Feb 3, 2011 9:01 PM CST up reply actions

Good synopsis.

I’m optimistic about the OL going into ‘11-’12, because of the amount of potential and athleticism that is currently under contract and Mike Tice.

When you look at the vast improvement from Week 1 to the conference game against the Pack, you see that it’s not a question of ability— but, a question of experience and approach.

Webb was thought to be a project that would be on the practice squad for a couple years and groomed to fill the RT position in a couple years, but after being inserted into the lineup because of his athleticism and size he grew with each game. He’s an imposing player who needs to get smarter on where the point of attack is and recognizing where the blitz is coming from, but a good offseason along with LOTS of instruction could make 2011 a great season for him at RT.

That’s impart to Tice and his ability to get the most out of his group. I think with another offseason of setting the tone and expectations for this group, we could see a lot more.

Now, if a high-end OT is available at the Bears 1st selection, I think you take him. However, I’m not advocating for the Bears to make taking a OT a priority with the first pick.

Semper Fi

"BRING GERALD HARRIS BACK TO THE UFC!!!"

by ChicagoMarine on Feb 3, 2011 11:46 AM CST reply actions

Webb...

improved markedly as the season progressed….In the run game.

His NFC Championship game pass blocking was as bad as his first start. He gave up 8 pressures in that game alone, I believe.

"just as Gary Fencik will go down as the last person to catch a Joe Namath pass, Wootton will be remembered in NFL history as the last player to sack Brett Favre." - John "Moon" Mullin

by Brendan Hess on Feb 3, 2011 12:01 PM CST up reply actions

It is his first year too.

Granted, I’m not saying he is a given to start at RT next season, but I see the potential that Tice spoke of at the beginning of the season.

My point is that I think the Bears have enough raw talent to work with in 2011 that they should be able to have open competetion at any position on the OL not listed as “Center”. I think they need to bring in some solid veteran leadership to show work ethic, proper technique, and help with tutelage that Tice will be giving.

Tice tried to get that with Schaffer at the beginning of last offseason, but I think Schaffer didn’t have the ability/skill to challenge the young talent on roster to elevate their game. A solid backp who could potentially start is what I think is needed. Whether that comes from the draft or FA I am open to, but I am not for scrapping the development of Webb at the cost of putting another rookie in at his spot unless he loses in offseason competition.

Semper Fi

"BRING GERALD HARRIS BACK TO THE UFC!!!"

by ChicagoMarine on Feb 3, 2011 12:32 PM CST up reply actions

Any chance Shaffer gets a shot at a full time gig?

Vic Koenning is my homeboy.

by pygreg on Feb 3, 2011 12:06 PM CST reply actions

I doubt it

While he played OK in his few starts, he’s his his ceiling as far as progress goes. They’ll go with the better prospect.

If you go in the bathroom, turn off the lights, and say "Da Coach" 5 times while facing the mirror... Ditka will appear and slap the wussy right out of you.

by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Feb 3, 2011 12:08 PM CST up reply actions

Nope, I dont think Shaffer will either

Especially since Tyson Claybo is a player that could be seriously targeted by the Bears.

Erik Duerrwaecter

by Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter on Feb 3, 2011 4:13 PM CST up reply actions

"I wouldn't expect the Bears to target any free agent tackles this off-season."

That would be a huge mistake. JA can’t draft offensive linemen. Period. But he has a fairly good record signing free agents, Orlando Pace notwithstanding.

If I’m the Bears, I use the first pick to draft a skill position player and I (re)build my O Line through free agency to win now. That defense is good enough to win it all and the window won’t stay open much longer. We simply don’t have time to a) groom any more young players and b) absolutely cannot miss on this as JA has done so many times before.

It’s do or die right now, and if you’re the Bears you find the best free agent Tackle on the market and sign him. Maybe squeeze out a guard and try your luck again with a 6th rounder or 7th rounder. Use the higher picks for receivers and secondary and maybe a nose guard.

by Skags on Feb 3, 2011 12:49 PM CST reply actions

Unless the Bears decide to cut a Tackle

there won’t be room to bring in a FA tackle and draft a tackle.

I’d love them to throw cash at the top G and T on the market, but I don’t see it happening

If you go in the bathroom, turn off the lights, and say "Da Coach" 5 times while facing the mirror... Ditka will appear and slap the wussy right out of you.

by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Feb 3, 2011 12:56 PM CST up reply actions

Don't care who they throw money at...

As long as his name is Mankins.

by Minds_Eye024 on Feb 3, 2011 1:18 PM CST via mobile up reply actions

Not happening

http://www.windycitygridiron.com/2011/2/3/1972569/brad-biggs-forget-about-logan-mankins

by Skags on Feb 3, 2011 1:19 PM CST up reply actions

I would rather they....

signed someone else who isn’t as good as Mankins but doesn’t command half the cap space either so we could sign other FA improvements as well, such as at CB, WR, etc.

E.F.K.

by DaBearBus on Feb 3, 2011 2:42 PM CST up reply actions

Well, he can't block real good...

But he can provide you with a good deal on a car

If you can't laugh at yourself you must not be very funny.
I remain a pessimistically hopeful Bears fan.

by Just Dave on Feb 3, 2011 3:18 PM CST up reply actions

haha

If you go in the bathroom, turn off the lights, and say "Da Coach" 5 times while facing the mirror... Ditka will appear and slap the wussy right out of you.

by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Feb 3, 2011 3:46 PM CST up reply actions

They'll cut somebody

Please for the love of Pete, cut somebody.

by Skags on Feb 3, 2011 1:22 PM CST up reply actions

I read somewhere that ...

…. it looks like Kevin Schaffer is as good as gone .

" Everyone has a plan 'till they get punched in the mouth. " ~
Mike Tyson

by MidWayMonster54 on Feb 3, 2011 5:59 PM CST up reply actions

Hopefully JA gets Tice's input

I think they need to release/trade/cut at least 2 of these guys or move to suitable long term position. Get some FA or picks in and start shoring things up.

We all know if the glaring ineptitude of the O-line and I personally think it will take a couple years to fix but that doesn’t mean they can’t get a decent/good oline set for next year. It will take a lot of strong moves, smart money and some luck though.

by TheMan1 on Feb 3, 2011 1:32 PM CST via mobile reply actions

This will definitely happen.

Five foot three seems to thrive on his misery...

by awfullyquiet on Feb 3, 2011 1:36 PM CST up reply actions

There are signs all over the place that Angelo is preparing to spend the big bucks on the O-Line

The new generation of McCaskeys appear to be alot less frugal than the previous one. I truly believe this new generation will open their accounts and allow the organization to
S P E N D spend spend spend the money.

Erik Duerrwaecter

by Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter on Feb 3, 2011 4:18 PM CST up reply actions

Hello?

Webb at LT??
He couldn’t stop the pass rush from the right side.
The more athletic DE’s that line up over the LT will have Jay in a body bag by the last game of the pre-season :(
On draft day, go to church, light a candle and say a prayer for a Castonzo, a Solder, a Carimi, a Smith, a Sherrod, even a Franklin to drop down to us. Pick up a C/G in the 4th or 5th, one in FA and let Mike Tice work his magic for another (and better) year!
Say Amen :)

pbanachi

by pbanachi on Feb 3, 2011 2:13 PM CST reply actions

I can't

Say any prayers involving Orlando Franklin playing Tackle in the NFL.

"just as Gary Fencik will go down as the last person to catch a Joe Namath pass, Wootton will be remembered in NFL history as the last player to sack Brett Favre." - John "Moon" Mullin

by Brendan Hess on Feb 3, 2011 2:14 PM CST up reply actions

11 draft

LT is the #1 need above anything else. I’d also go with a young C in Round 2 or 3 since Kreutz is out of a contract.

by walterfan34 on Feb 3, 2011 2:38 PM CST reply actions

Honestly...

I wouldn’t mind signing Corey Liuget (DT) in the first round, G/C in the 2nd-3rd round, and then BPA 4-6. Perhaps sign a tackle in FA, whether it’s LT or RT. And maybe also make a trade for a physical, tall WR.

E.F.K.

by DaBearBus on Feb 3, 2011 2:46 PM CST reply actions

Welcome to the club :)

Liuget is a player that we need to have on our D-Line. Besides Martz and Tice would probably feel more comfortable coaching a player with experiance into their system as opposed to starting out fresh, which could take years and cause alot of heartbreaks.

Erik Duerrwaecter

by Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter on Feb 3, 2011 4:24 PM CST up reply actions

And...a bigger and far more physical WR would be nice

Erik Duerrwaecter

by Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter on Feb 3, 2011 4:25 PM CST up reply actions

RE The Club:

I read your posts earlier but couldn’t comment as I’m a new member. I would have to agree with you though about Liuget, and I think having a disruptive DT would be huge for the D. I think our O-Line problems start in the middle at the guards spot. With Kreutz as our best O lineman (according to PFF and others) I would say bring him back short term, but bring in a tackle and guard in free agency that won’t command huge salaries (when compared with Mankins). i.e. Harvey Dahl and perhaps Doug Free or Tyson Clabo. Draft a guard or C/OG in the second who could potentially start right away, and later move over to center. Then one could draft a tackle prospect later, as I don’t think any “elite” prospects will fall to the Bears. Take a decent CB in the third.

E.F.K.

by DaBearBus on Feb 3, 2011 4:38 PM CST up reply actions

Consensus on grooming a C

Wisniewski would be great, … good school and good pedigree, … but he’s not worth our 1st and will be gone by our 2nd.

pbanachi

by pbanachi on Feb 3, 2011 2:51 PM CST reply actions

LT is ideal

I feel if we can get a LT to be able to start on day 1, either FA or first two rounds in the draft would be ideal. Then we could have Omiyale and Webb compete for RT. Williams is getting better at LG, but I don’t feel that he is a good fit at tackle, I think he has problems picking up blitzes and is a descent run blocker making him a capable guard. Then we need to address of finding a G/C because of the aging wall Kreutz. Maybe pick up a developing G/C in the middle to later rounds or earlier if we pick up a FA, this I believe is one of our top priorities in the draft.
We may just try to find the best OL in the draft and could get a G/C in the first two rounds that can hopefully start. We may have to either have Williams and Webb compete for RT, but I feel that Tackle is a priority and I don’t see us getting rid of Williams if Webb does beat him out; I also don’t see Williams beating out Omiyale at LT, and we already tried this the beginning of this year without much success. Hopefully Tice can put his input in for the draft.

by Captain Kangaroo on Feb 3, 2011 3:12 PM CST reply actions

Looking at OT draft picks.

I found some interesting data regarding Draft Needs via CBS Sports. You can click each division and see what every teams “wants” are (I’m not sure the criteria). Then I looked up rankings of Draft Prospects for OT.

I did a little chalkboard war room stuff comparing “needs” for each team against the Bears. Now, I’m no draft expert, but I found it interesting to note that 19 teams have a need of 5 of better for an O.T. Nine teams have a need equal or better than Chicago. I’m totally assuming a 4 or less is a low need (draft choice?).

It all boils down to the draft minds. The big question is draft for need or best available? Of the 5 or better “needs” the Bears have OT, WR, OG, OLB, SS, DT & C. I think draft for need to protect our QB. There are 8 guys listed as 1st to 3rd round draft choices OT’s.

It's 106 miles to Chicago, we have a full tank of gas, 1/2 pack of cigarettes...it's dark, and we're wearing sunglasses.

by lastof12 on Feb 3, 2011 4:29 PM CST reply actions

I'm intrigue to see Webb compete for the LT spot in this year's training camp.

He has the athletic make up to be a solid blindside protector, but just needs to get the mental aspect down.

by Dominique Blanton on Feb 3, 2011 6:12 PM CST reply actions

That's Crazy Talk!

Webb did a horse bleep job pass blocking from the right side. Most teams traditionally put their most formidable speed rusher coming from the QB’s blind (left) side. Webb will be a quick box lunch before they devour Jay :(

pbanachi

by pbanachi on Feb 4, 2011 12:20 AM CST up reply actions

Webb has technique issues

not athleticism issues… If he can improve his technique he may be able to play on the left side… Either way he needs to improve his technique

If you go in the bathroom, turn off the lights, and say "Da Coach" 5 times while facing the mirror... Ditka will appear and slap the wussy right out of you.

by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Feb 4, 2011 9:43 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs

I want anyone who can block

for 5 seconds

The. Bogans. Prophecy.

by T.Moore on Feb 3, 2011 9:39 PM CST reply actions

Let's line up

I bet I can get 3.6 minimum. How’s your swim move?

If you can't laugh at yourself you must not be very funny.
I remain a pessimistically hopeful Bears fan.

by Just Dave on Feb 3, 2011 10:34 PM CST up reply actions

by T.Moore on Feb 4, 2011 11:31 AM CST up reply actions

imagine how much a LT that could hold a block for 5 seconds would get paid!

If you go in the bathroom, turn off the lights, and say "Da Coach" 5 times while facing the mirror... Ditka will appear and slap the wussy right out of you.

by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Feb 4, 2011 12:04 PM CST up reply actions