The Chicago Bears were one of the NFC’s top teams in 2018, but their stout defense and up-and-coming offense aren’t enough, apparently, for USA TODAY to rank them among the league’s elite in their latest NFL Power Rankings.
In the post-draft edition, Chicago checks-in at No. 13.
13. Bears (13)
Weren’t able to add much in draft or free agency. Good chance Vikings, Packers rebound. Beyond that, how will defense look sans departed mastermind Vic Fangio?
The Bears, to the contrary, added quite a bit in this year’s draft when factoring Khalil Mack and Anthony Miller into the haul. Both players will be critical to any success Chicago enjoys in 2019.
Third-round pick David Montgomery shouldn’t be overlooked, either. He’s been praised as a three-down back by GM Ryan Pace and coach Matt Nagy, which suggests he’ll be in the mix for a starting job in training camp. In fact, it would be a surprise if he doesn’t open the season as Chicago’s primary ball carrier.
So while the Bears didn’t make a sexy signing in free agency or select a player in the first round, the additions they have made will go quite a long way in making this team better than it was in 2018.
And that deserves a much higher ranking than No. 13.
