Free agency is upon us, and the roster has been further shaken up. I believe that that two pieces are keeping the Bears from being the best offense in the league. We need a second threat at TE and a capable slot receiver that can make plays over the middle of the field.
Rosario was never more than a special teams body, and blocking tight end. Martellus Bennett, is definitely a dynamic threat over the middle, but I argue that it is where the Bears struggled the most last year. I understand that Brandon Marshall and Jeffery at times flexed inside, but they are best employed on the outside. The Bears do not a need a quote "speedy" slot receiver, just a consistent option over the middle to complement Bennett.
The "22" personnel set is common around the NFL where there are two outside receivers and two tight ends in the same package. Imagine Marshall, Jeffery, Bennett, Forte, and a capable second receiving tight end. That set would match anything that is at the top of the ladder offensively, namely what Denver put on the field. I would not be the least bit surprised if Emery inked or drafted someone that would fit this mold. If Jermichael Finley or Dustin Keller could be picked up for a cap friendly contract, then the offense would have that extra piece to give DC's more nightmares than our offense already causes.
As for a slot receiver I think that we already have a fit in Wilson. If he puts some meat on his bones, he could have the potential to be something special. It was not that long ago, that he was considered a first day prospect in the NFL draft. You can't teach height and speed, and he has both of them. The slot receiver is the complement to the nickel back on defense. I draw that comparison, because both positions can now be viewed as important as starters due to the move to a passing oriented league. It is a position that we desperately need to seal up and Earl Bennett has not been up to par. He has proven to be as durable as a soap bubble, poke him and he goes pop.
I would love to hear what everyone has to say on this topic.
Thanks.