Chicago Bears Preview 2021
Our Chicago Bears preview 2021 notes that once again this team will have a change at quarterback. With that, we expect veteran Andy Dalton to get the start as former starter Mitchell Trubisky goes to Buffalo. The last two-of-three seasons, the Bears have made the playoffs, finishing first in 2018 with a 12-4 record and second in 2020 with an 8-8 mark. However, they did not win a postseason game in either year.
Bears Offense
Along with Dalton, the Bears see vet Nick Foles return. Additionally, there’s rookie dual-threat Justin Fields, the former Ohio State quarterback. Last season with the Cowboys, Dalton took over when starter Dak Prescott was injured. He threw for 2,170 yards, tossing 14 TD passes and eight INTs. Chicago’s O-line is deep. It includes new and experienced talent. This group has been upgraded and should help the running game while offering better QB protection.
The receiving unit includes Allen Robinson II (102 REC, 1,250 Yds, 12.3 AVG, 6 TDs), a premium talent. In addition, Darnell Mooney (61 REC, 631 TDs, 10.3 AVG, 4 TDs) returns after recording impressive numbers last season as a rookie. Young tight end Cole Kmet will likely start. He’s expected to take over for Jimmy Graham, a 12-year vet at the end of his contract. After a solid second NFL season, running back David Montgomery (247 ATT, 1,070 YDs, 4.3 AVG, 8 TDs) looks ready to become an elite player. Damien Williams, the former Kansas City running back who last year opted out and became a free agent, is a solid dual-threat rusher and receiver.
Chicago Bears Preview – Defense
Our Chicago Bears preview 2021 notes that the D features a three-four front. Both frontline and linebackers are top notch. End Akiem Hicks is a major foundation piece and leader. However, he’s aging out of his role. At the other end, Bilal Nichols (5 SCKs) proved to be an impact player midway through last season. Nose tackle Eddie Goldman returns after opting out last season. He’ll be a big factor in the pass rush.
The linebacking unit includes pass rusher extraordinaire Khalil Mack (9 SCKs). Last season, he led the team in quarterback bringdowns. However, injuries have tempered his effectiveness. In 2020, ILB Roquan Smith topped the team with 139 tackles, while fellow ILB Danny Trevathan, the leader on this side of the ball, was second with 112. Chicago recorded just 10 picks, which tied them for 23rd. Strong safety Tashaun Gipson Sr. was solid, while free safety Eddie Jackson (82 TKLs) struggled. Both are back. The corners are major question marks. However, last year in his rookie season Jaylon Johnson was impressive. He’ll be expected to do more in 2021.
Chicago Bears Special Teams
Last year, placekicker Cairo Santos (36/37 XPs, 30/32 FGs) came to the Bears and righted the kicking game. He is back. Punter Pat O’Donnell ably handles the shifting winds of Soldier Field while habitually placing the ball within the 20. Long snapper Patrick Scales is dependable. The return game loses talented Cordarrelle Patterson. Powerful and dexterous rookie running back Khalil Herbert could fill the gap.
Chicago Bears Preview 2021 – Final Word
Matt Nagy (28-22 Overall, 0-2 Postseason) starts his fourth season as an NFL and Chicago’s head coach. Nagy will run the offense as he switches from a run-based attack to a Kansas City run-pass option scheme. Last year, this team tied for 22nd in points-per-game (23.3). It’s hoped this change in scheme will put more points on the board. Also, last season, the Chicago defense was middling, as they gave up 23.1 PPG (T-13th). They could take a step up this season. However, the secondary is a concern. Still, with a promising new offense, if the D does come through, this Bears team has a real shot at making the post season again and winning a playoff game or two.
NFC North Summary - Chicago Bears 2021:
Second Place – Record 11-6
Wild Card