Chicago Bears May Have Sleeper Emerging In GM Race

Chris Ballard remains the favorite for winning the sprint for the Chicago Bears GM position given his connection to the team as well as the large collection of references he’s been getting from around the league.  Though nothing out of the ordinary has indicated a change, a quiet undercurrent has begun that hints Ballard isn’t as secure in his lead for the job as many think.

A number of reputable sources believe that Tennessee Titans VP of Football Operations Lake Dawson is not only a requirement to satisfy the Rooney Rule, but a legitimate name who could emerge as a sleeper.

A lot can be read from those tweets.  Mike Silver is a noted NFL insider who is popular on Twitter and a known Bears fan.  When he says that Dawson is the biggest threat to Ballard, people should take notice.  The second signals that this isn’t the first time Ernie Accorsi, who is consulting for Chicago on their search, has recommended Dawson for a GM position.  He did so two years ago for the Carolina Panthers.  Lastly, there is the fact that Dawson was offered a GM position by the Miami Dolphins, but chose not to accept it because he didn’t like the situation.

That speaks to a man who has been in demand for some time and, contrary to popular belief, there are reasons for that.  The Tennessee Titans haven’t had a winning season since 2011 and haven’t made the playoffs since 2008.  It’s led some to believe that they are totally bereft of talent.  However, research indicates that isn’t true.

According to USA Today, only the New England Patriots have drafted more effectively since 2009 than the Titans have.

"“Watching the Titans over the last few years, you get the sense that the team is just one or two breaks away from breaking into the playoffs. Tennessee hasn’t been a big free agent destination, but the front office has managed to keep the roster stocked with talent, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Over the last half-decade, they have added good defenders like CB Jason McCourty, CB Alterraun Verner, DT Jurrell Casey and DT Mike Martin outside of the top-75. Picking offensive players has been an issue for the Titans, but they’ve added some decent pieces in the draft over the years.”"

So it’s clear that Dawson may have a better eye for good players than first expect.  Add in the fact he has defensive leanings and more experience in a front office environment than Ballard and it’s fair to say he may just be the next Chicago Bears GM.