This year, we decided to get the Windy City Gridiron Writers' Association together for another series of posts, this time handing out awards to the team's most deserving players. If you couldn't tell by the title, we'll be starting by awarding the Bears' Rookie of the Year. Follow us past the jump and we'll get to each writer's pick for the award...

Lester's Pick: Chris Conte - It was almost comical reading the comment threads after he was drafted, just because no one heard of the kid, the pick was bashed. Many scouts had him rated pretty high, and none of the "experts" thought it was a reach. Honorable Mention, Stephen Paea.

TJ's Pick: Chris Conte - Ended season on IR, but was the most consistent player at a weak position for the Bears.

Dane's Pick: Chris Conte - Chris Conte, duh. He even made some all-Rookie team that someone published somewhere.

Sam's Pick: Chris Conte

Pete's Pick: Chris Conte - Third round, played 14 games, started 9; 47 tackles, 1 pick. 2011 All-Rookie Team as chosen by Pro Football Weekly and Pro Football Writers Association of America. 1st Rounder RT Carimi showed promise but injured early, placed on IR. 2nd Rounder DT Paea found his way into DT rotation, TBD. 5th Rounder QB Enderle developmental at best, never saw the field. 6th rounder LB Thomas red-shirted. So Conte was a mild surprise but gets this honor by default

Kev's Pick: Chris Conte - Conte, rookie by default.

Steven's Pick: I guess this makes it unanimous. Chris Conte.

So, with all that said, the Bears' Rookie of the Year is safety Chris Conte. What do you think of the pick?