Chicago Bears 2016 Team Preview: It’s Cutler Time
By Erik Lambert
Special Teams
Unlike the previous regime, it’s been clear from the outset that GM Ryan Pace has a great deal more interest in a good special teams than his predecessor did. Several of the moves made by the Bears over the past few months could be identified as purely ones to improve the third phase. Sherrick McManis was re-signed despite his underwhelming performance on defense, but was again an ace as a gunner on punts. Sixth round draft pick DeAndre Houston-Carson comes in with a reputation for blocking a ridiculous nine kicks during his time in college.
Aaron Brewer was brought in as their projected new starter at long snapper and even punter Pat O’Donnell found he has some competition to deal with in the form of undrafted free agent Ben LeCompte. It’s safe to say the kicking, punting, and covering on special team last year was unsatisfactory for the Bears. Given such an influx of capable bodies who have excelled at it elsewhere that figures to change in the coming months.
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