2007 NFL Season Preview - Chicago Bears

What does a stifling defense and a patient, yet potentially quick-strike offense get you? Well, if you ask the Chicago Bears this question the answer would probably be something along the lines of "not enough." The Bears reached the height of the NFC plateau, but could not get over the final obstacle in losing to the Indianapolis Colts in the Super Bowl. Now, one year later, this team is the same, but still different.

Lance Briggs is unhappy but apparently will play this season. Gone is running back Thomas Jones, the most solid rusher the team has seen in quite some time and defensive tackle Tank Johnson. The Bears have made strides to get better, but can they continue to dominate the NFC? Will Rex Grossman put it together for an entire season or are the Bears doomed for another January/February collapse?

Chicago Bears
2006 Record (Standing): 13-3 (NFC North Champs)
2006 Postseason (If app.): Lost to Indianapolis (Super Bowl)
Head Coach (Career Record): Lovie Smith, 4^th season (29-19)
Key Additions: S Adam Archuleta (trade; Washington), DT Anthony Adams (FA, San Francisco) TE Greg Olsen (draft; 1^st round, 31^st pick)
Key Losses: DT Tank Johnson (Cut; suspended by NFL), RB Thomas Jones (trade; New York Jets)

Positives: It might not beone of the first things you think about for successful offenses, but the Bears' linemen are the main reason they are so successful in the first place. In the middle is the perennial Pro-Bowler Olin Kreutz. Kreutz is a stabilizing force on the line; 2006 was his fourth straight season starting every game for the Bears as their center. Kreutz is also the longest-tenured Bear, which means a lot in the locker room and in the huddle. He is as much of a leader for the Bears as anyone could be. On the field, he does not give anything up. He is solid in both running and passing formations and has an adept eye at picking up blitzes and making tough calls on the line regarding shifting protection.