In a curious twist this offseason, a vocal group of Chicago Bears fans on social media has been buzzing with discussions about trading away valuable veteran starters. This chatter began when the Bears selected Michigan tight end Colston Loveland with the tenth overall pick in the NFL draft. The selection sparked speculation that veteran tight end Cole Kmet might be traded, despite assurances from Bears general manager Ryan Poles, head coach Ben Johnson, and Kmet himself that Loveland’s addition would not diminish Kmet’s role in the offense.
Johnson has articulated a vision for the Bears’ offense that includes utilizing both pass-catching tight ends to leverage their complementary strengths. Last season, Johnson’s offensive schemes prominently featured 12 personnel, utilizing two tight ends, at one of the highest rates in the NFL. However, some Bears fans remain skeptical, drawing comparisons to Johnson’s previous tenure with the Detroit Lions, where tight end Sam LaPorta was the primary target. This skepticism persists despite Johnson’s clear statements about building a unique offensive strategy for Chicago.
Rookie Selections Stir Controversy
The speculation intensified on the second night of the draft when the Bears selected Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III. This led to further conjecture that wide receiver D.J. Moore might be on the trading block, given Burden’s similar strength in yards after catch. Moore’s occasional sideline demeanor during last year’s challenging season may have fueled this narrative. However, it seems premature to consider trading a player like Moore, who has averaged over 1,150 receiving yards in his two seasons with the Bears, based solely on the potential of an untested rookie.
As the offseason progresses, discussions about trading Kmet and Moore continue among some fans. While speculation and questioning are natural parts of fandom, the conversations have at times veered into unwarranted negativity. Both Loveland and Burden have immense potential, yet they also face the typical rookie learning curve, having missed crucial practice reps in OTAs due to injuries.
The Value of Depth and Talent
Some fans appear to relish the idea of pitting Bears players against each other, praising the rookies while undermining the veterans. This perspective overlooks the reality that success in the NFL often requires depth and multiple contributors at each position. In Johnson’s offense, multiple receivers can expect significant target opportunities. During his time with the Lions, quarterback Jared Goff frequently distributed the ball to five or six different targets in a single game, illustrating the benefits of a diverse and talented receiving corps.
Offense is not a zero-sum game. The pie expands with the more talent you have.
Despite initial excitement over Johnson’s hiring and his plans for a modern NFL offense, some fans have expressed concerns about depth chart dynamics rather than embracing the potential of a talent-rich roster. This sentiment contrasts sharply with the Bears’ situation just a few seasons ago when the team’s receiving talent was ranked at the bottom of the league.
Looking Back to Move Forward
In 2022, the Bears’ wide receiver room was ranked 32nd in the league, and injuries further depleted the roster. Only two receivers, Equanimeous St. Brown and Dante Pettis, remained healthy throughout the season, forcing them into primary roles. This lack of depth contributed to a disappointing 3-14 record, a position the Bears are eager to avoid as they aim for playoff contention.
The Bears have made significant strides in rebuilding their roster, and the current depth reflects that progress. As fans, it’s crucial to appreciate the talent at hand and support the team’s efforts under Johnson’s leadership. Before considering trades of key contributors, the focus should be on achieving consistent success and securing a playoff berth.
In conclusion, the Chicago Bears are on a journey of transformation, with a stronger and deeper roster than in recent years. As the team continues to build under Ben Johnson’s guidance, fans are encouraged to celebrate the present talent and anticipate a successful future.
