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Post by NickWorthem on Mar 20, 2013 19:47:59 GMT -5
Not entirely the biggest surprise, of the off-season. In fact, it just reaffirms that our first round pick is going to be a linebacker. I have a lot of love for Ogeltree, but the pick is likely Arthur Brown (with reports he is envisioned as a 4-3 MLB). Someone that has performed at a high level and lacks the character/maturity red flags of Ogeltree.
Urlacher, simply, wanted more money than he was worth. Playing well for most of his career is great, but he has been injured/not playing at a high level for the past three seasons. Letting him go, rather than paying him a significant sum, was definitively the right move.
Also... James Anderson is still a free agent... fits the defense and could be a great replacement for Roach.
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Post by EagleDomiKnation on Mar 20, 2013 20:25:37 GMT -5
Yeah, love Urlacher, but father time always sends you to bed. Can't believe he didnt want to stay in Chicago, I figured he would have taken a pay cut to try and get that ring. I do think this hurts the bears though, No rookie MLB can replace him this season IMO. Ogletree just doesnt have the toughness or build to be a 4-3 MLB...only a 3-4 MLB. Sad for Chitown nation, end of a great era.
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Post by NickWorthem on Mar 20, 2013 20:28:17 GMT -5
I disagree, slightly on Ogeltree and I don't think Brown is the perfect fit, but we will draft one of the two as we start a new era. Thankfully, our defense isn't changing so we can rely on our excellent defensive line to help ease their transition. Either way, we need to sign a weak-side backer to compensate. Two rookies would be devastating to, what most would agree, is a playoff team.
James Anderson, when healthy, would fit in perfectly.
I really hope the Bears brass picks him up for what should be a cheap price.
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Post by TonOdanK on Mar 21, 2013 12:53:32 GMT -5
I've always thought he would retire in Chicago. He wasn't just a outstanding player he also brought leadership that will be hard to replace
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Post by NickWorthem on Mar 21, 2013 17:57:42 GMT -5
I've always thought he would retire in Chicago. He wasn't just a outstanding player he also brought leadership that will be hard to replace I think this transition will be easier because of the other great leaders we have, primarily on defense, alongside Roberto Garza. Urlacher hasn't been there in a leadership role, much, since ~2010. With that being said, it will be a change, but not in identity. Ultimately, I don't think anyone penalizes the Bears for this decision, but it does have a few ramifications. Phil Emery stuck to his guns and I respect him for that. |
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Post by NickWorthem on Mar 22, 2013 17:52:36 GMT -5
DJ Williams signed as potential replacement for Urlacher or a weak side replacement, depending on our draft.
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Post by lostabroad2 on Mar 22, 2013 22:52:51 GMT -5
His career would be extended on a 3-4 team. He can still play 4-3 MLB but he's not 'money' at this point.
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Post by NickWorthem on Mar 23, 2013 0:29:58 GMT -5
His career would be extended on a 3-4 team. He can still play 4-3 MLB but he's not 'money' at this point. Not bitter about this, but after watching him the past few years, he's done. He has nothing left to offer beyond leadership. On the field, he has performed at a mediocre level. |
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Post by Shaggzfate on Mar 23, 2013 0:41:43 GMT -5
Being hurt hasn't helped him the last few years either. It's almost like he never got to the next level because he was always healing or getting into season form. I think he still makes an impact wherever he goes, but like it was said above, as a leader more than a player. His better seasons are behind him at this point.
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Post by NickWorthem on Mar 23, 2013 0:51:17 GMT -5
The Raiders can have him Shaggzy. You've already signed one average, Bears linebacker  |
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