My Matt Forte Blog

The Chicago Bears will play their 89th regular season in 2008 and attempt to improve upon their 7-9 finish in 2007. Obviously, heading into the new season the Bears had to address many issues, mainly their weak offense. Statistically speaking, the team's running game ranked last place in most categories. The team also had their share of injuries and poor game play from their aging offensive line. What will it take to turn the bears around and turn them into the 2006 team that finished the season playing Super Bowl winner the Indianapolis Colts?

The draft is a good indication of where the team is going in 2008. In addition to their six other regular picks, the team got to choose an extra third-round draft pick after trading with the San Diego Chargers. They also traded third-round picks with the San Francisco 49ers and got their fifth round pick after negotiating with Lance Briggs's agent. The NFL also let the Bears choose three compensatory picks, giving the team a total of 12 draft picks. As many experts predicted, the Bears wisely used their first three draft picks for choosing offensive players. These were offensive tackle Chris Williams from Vanderbilt University, running back Matt Forte from Tulane and wide receiver Earl Bennett.

The next rounds brought the team some defensive players as well as offensive players, including Arkansas' Marcus Harrison as a defensive tackle, safety Craig Steltz from Louisiana State University, cornerback Zack Bowman from Nebraska, tight end Kellen Davis and defensive end Ervin Baldwin from Michigan State. Rounding out the list were offensive guard Chester Adams from Georgia, linebacker Joey LaRocque from Oregon State, offensive tackle Kirk Barton from Ohio State and wide receiver Marcus Monk from Arkansas.

How did the press react to the Chicago Bears of 2008? There was some criticism as regards the quarterback situation as well as players like Cedric Benson. Just as the team was trying to rebuild their offensive line they also lose Bernard Berrian. Fans and experts noticed that the Bears went after offensive players like Chris Williams. Williams has received some scrutiny because of his short arms, nevertheless most fans believe he is a smart athlete and one that can easily become a top pass blocker in the big leagues. Cedric Benson probably felt the heat when running back Matt Forte was chosen, possibly as his replacement if Benson doesn't start living up to his promises. Forte is seen as a bit of an in-between for running back and full back position, though his MVP showing at the Senior Bowl did help. Earl Bennett also won high marks for his size and bulk and most importantly his pass catching average.

What is the overall reception for the Bears 2008 draft? They scored well, receiving quantity as well as quality. Some experts questioned why the team didn't opt for a quarterback. It seems likely that the Bears may be in for a longer wait for success as they rebuild their offense. However, it does appear as if they are heading in the right direction. Sometimes building legendary Super Bowl winners just takes time-as Chicago's most loyal fans know.