News: The Bears spent four of six draft picks on defensive players, including three on defensive backs. Their top pick figures to contribute the most: Boise State linebacker Shea McClellin is expected to work as a defensive lineman after scoring seven sacks last season and 20 1/2 in his collegiate career. The Bears also spent picks on Oregon State safety Brandon Hardin, Nevada cornerback Isaiah Frey and TCU cornerback Greg McCoy.
Analysis: In addition to these youngsters, the Bears added some efficient veteran talent this offseason in linebacker Geno Hayes and cornerback Kelvin Hayden. The Bears defense has some solid depth to go with their improved special-teams (Eric Weems might replace Johnny Knox and Devin Hester should still do some work). They're worth drafting with a late pick in drafts.
News: The Bears won on the strength of their defense Week 17 at Minnesota, limiting the Vikings to 13 points on 301 yards. But the big blow came in the second quarter, when DB Charles Tillman happened to be in the right place at the right time, catching a pass that bounced off the hands of RB Toby Gerhart and returning it 22 yards for a touchdown. The Bears had a total of three interceptions in the game. They also had two sacks and a blocked field goal.
Analysis: Even with the struggles of the offense following the loss of QB Jay Cutler (thumb) in Week 11, the Bears DST has managed to remain one of the more productive units in Fantasy, and it certainly took advantage of a favorable matchup in Week 17. With an expected return to health for Cutler this offseason, the Bears defense won't have to spend so much time on the field in 2012 and should get back to being a top Fantasy unit. Expect it to go off the board among the top 10 DSTs on Draft Day.
News: The Bears faced the Packers and their high-flying offense for the second time in Week 17, and the result was about as bad as the first when they lost 27-17, as they lost 35-21 in Week 17. QB Aaron Rodgers passed for 283 yards and five touchdowns, and the Bears were unable to touch or rattle him in the game. The Bears’ one sack came last in the game after Rodgers was pulled for Matt Flynn.
Analysis: The Bears’ DST offered very little resistance to Rodgers’ attack, and it was their second game in a row in which they allowed 30-plus points. Now, they have to travel to Minnesota in Week 17 for a showdown against a divisional rival they held to 10 points in a Week 6 matchup earlier in the season. However the Vikings have turned their offense around in recent weeks, averaging 28.25 points-per game over their last four. At this point in the season, with a number of recent poor showings, the Bears DST unit cannot be relied upon as anything more than a No. 2 option for Week 17.
News: The Bears actually held their Week 16 opponent Green Bay in check when they played earlier this season in Week 3. The Bears held them to their fifth lowest scoring total and sixth lowest passing yards total of the season in the matchup. Of course, holding Aaron Rodgers in check means he ‘only’ passed for 292 yards and scored 27 points, so it wasn’t much of an accomplishment. The Packers have been hit hard by a pair of injuries to offensive tackles, and LB Brian Urlacher is looking to take advantage of that in the matchup. "Julius Peppers and all of those guys up front, I am sure they are excited about that," Urlacher said. "Too bad for them. Good for us."
Analysis: Even with the missing tackles, don’t expect the Bears to fair much better in Week 16 than they did in Week 3, as Rodgers is still too good and still has too many weapons to be stopped. He is coming off of his worst game of the season in Week 15 against the Chiefs, as he passed for just 215 yards and the Packers scored just 14 in a loss, but the team put up 84 points combined in their two games prior, so it doesn’t look like much of a pattern. We cannot recommend the Bears DST as anything more than a very low-end No. 2 unit for Week 16 because of the matchup.
News: The Bears DST had a decent performance in the Week 15 loss to the Seahawks. The Bears DST managed to record a DTD as Israel Idonije recovered a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown in the first quarter to make the score 7-7 at the time. The Bears DST held Seattle to 286 yards in the game, but still lost 38-14. The Bears DST forced just the one turnover which resulted in a TD. The Bears had just one sack in the loss.
Analysis: The Bears DST would not have had a great performance on Sunday had they not recovered the fumble in the end zone. That said, the unit has scored in double figures in Fantasy points in three straight games heading into Week 16 at Green Bay. The Packers just suffered their first loss of the season and should be out for retribution Week 16. We doubt the Bears DST is going to be able to stop them. Consider the Bears DST just a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 16.
News: The Bears defense has been especially sack-happy lately, piling up 11 sacks over its last three games. That could be dangerous for the visiting Seahawks in Week 15, who have given up the fourth-most sacks this season. Then again, many of those sacks came at the beginning of the season, before the Seahawks began to emphasize the run. Seattle may not be able to lean on RB Marshawn Lynch so heavily this week, though, considering the Bears rank 10th against the run, allowing 101.7 yards per game.
Analysis: Even with the success of their running game recently, the Seahawks have still been relatively easy prey, giving up the eighth-most Fantasy points to opposing DSTs this season. The Bears DST is a strong enough unit to start in Fantasy even when it doesn't have the best matchup, and this one isn't particularly unfavorable. Keep it active as a No. 1 DST.
News: The Broncos had 14 possessions during the course of their Week 14 game against Chicago, and the Bears’ defense forced them to punt eight times. Chicago forced two turnovers and blocked a field goal. Add that up, and that’s comes out to the first 11 Broncos’ possessions ending without a point on the board, a stellar start by any standard. The Bears kept QB Tim Tebow and the Broncos off the scoreboard for almost 58 minutes of gametime however over the next three possessions the Broncos rallied for a touchdown and two field goals, including a 51-yarder in overtime to put the Broncos in the win column, 13-10.
Analysis: Despite the loss, it was an excellent game for the Bears DST unit, as they sacked Tebow five times and forced two turnovers. While it wasn’t enough to win with their sluggish offense, it was a fine day from a Fantasy perspective. They were the first team in six weeks to intercept Tebow, and they held the Broncos to 4.4 yards per offensive play. The Bears have a strong matchup in Week 15 against the Seattle Seahawks, as they are 25th in the league in scoring. Consider the Bears a No. 1 Fantasy DST unit for Week 15.
News: The Bears travel to Denver to take on the Broncos in Week 14, and that means matching up with one of the NFL’s most unconventional offenses. Broncos’ QB Tim Tebow barely attempts a pass more often than he runs the ball, with 82 passes and 56 rushes in his last five games. This would appear to give opposing defenses an advantage, as they can avoid the big passing play against them. However, Denver has won each of those games, averaging almost 25 points and 327 yards per game. They have turned the ball over just three times in that span, and have a habit of wearing defenses out with their running game, which has averaged 205 yards per game in the last five games.
Analysis: The Bears excel at forcing turnovers and pressuring the quarterback. However, after turning the ball over three times and allowing 13 sacks in Tebow’s first two starts, the Broncos have allowed their second-year quarterback to be sacked just five times along with the three turnovers in five games. Opposing DST units have averaged fewer than six points per game against Denver in the last five, as well. The Bears have been the eighth best team in the NFL at limiting rushing yards, so it’s a case of strength meeting strength in Week 14. The Bears might struggle to get to the quarterback and force turnovers for the second week in a row, but they will likely limit the Broncos on the scoreboard, so should be considered a solid No. 1 DST unit in all Fantasy leagues for Week 14.
News: Facing a backup quarterback who had thrown a combined six interceptions in his previous two games, the Bears appeared to have the upper hand heading into Week 13 against the Chiefs. But they were unable to record an interception off Tyler Palko, who led the Chiefs to 10 points on 252 yards. They did, however, sack him twice.
Analysis: The Bears defense didn't exactly get blown out, but it didn't have the dominant performance expected of it with this matchup. It's still one of the better units in Fantasy, though, averaging 1.7 interceptions and 2.1 sacks over its last seven games. Keep the Bears DST active as a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 14 at Denver.
News: LB Brian Urlacher takes offense to comments that the Bears lack defensive imagination. "It seems like everyone says we’re not going to trick anybody so you should be able to do whatever you want to against us," he said. "It’s not that easy. You can’t prepare for how hard we play and how athletic we are on defense." Facing a Chiefs offense in Week 13 that has gotten into the end zone once in 16 quarters, the Bears defense still sees a need to improve on last week's effort. "We did good against the (Raiders) running game (but) gave up too many yards in the passing game, too many big plays," Urlacher said.
Analysis: The Chiefs picked up former Bears QB Kyle Orton off waivers from the Broncos last week, but Tyler Palko is still expected to start Sunday. That's good news for the Bears since Palko has thrown three interceptions in each of his first two starts in place of the injured Matt Cassel. The Bears defense doesn't have to be imaginative to be successful. They are still one of the best defenses in the NFL. Make sure to start the Bears DST in Week 13.
News: The Bears defense faced an uphill battle in Week 12, as their offense turned the ball over three times and had a lot of trouble sustaining early drives in a 25-20 loss to the Raiders. Despite this, the Bears were able to adopt a bend-don't-break approach to the Oakland offense, letting them get five red zone opportunities, but only allowing one touchdown, as 18 of the 25 points they allowed came on field goals. The Bears sacked Carson Palmer four times and picked him off once.
Analysis: Things could have been much worse for the Bears on the scoreboard, as Oakland's average starting position for their drives was their own 40-yard line. Faced with a short field more often than usual, the defense did an excellent job keeping the Raiders out of the end zone, and with a little more support from the offense, could have kept them off the scoreboard even more. Despite not receiving any production from the special teams unit, the Bears still had a pretty good day from a Fantasy perspective. They face Kansas City next week, and opposing Fantasy defenses have feasted on them and their messy quarterback situation in recent weeks, so go ahead and consider the Bears DST a No. 1 unit in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Bears' DST has been one of the NFL's best units, ranking fourth in Fantasy points so far on the season, and a big part of that has been Devin Hester's four return touchdowns. Oakland, their Week 12 opponent, doesn't seem to be concerned about the threat Hester, the NFL's all time leader in return touchdowns, poses. “We have the biggest, fastest guys in the league covering our punts," said Raiders S Mike Mitchell "After he gets machine-gunned a couple times, he’s not going to be too quick to return punts.”
Analysis: It might not be the best idea to call out a player of Hester's caliber so publicly, and it has to make Bears DST Fantasy owners happy to know Hester will at least get some chances. Beyond the potential for fireworks in the return game, the Bears should be able to put up a good game from a Fantasy perspective. The Raiders turn the ball over almost twice a game on the season and had four wide receivers miss practice on Wednesday. They are still working in Carson Palmer, as he's only been with the team for five weeks, so not having the opportunity to work with most of receiving corps in practice can only make things more difficult for him. This bodes well for the Bears' opportunistic defense, and they should be considered a must-start DST in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Bears surrendered 20 points on 332 yards of total offense in Week 11 against the Chargers. Chicago was able to limit San Diego to just 52 yards rushing in the 31-20 contest and only one rushing first down. While the unit was unable to record a sack, they were able to force a pair of Philip Rivers interceptions in the fourth quarter -- including one in the end zone -- and also recovered a fumble in the victory.
Analysis: The Bears DST didn't garner a ton of Fantasy points for owners on Sunday, but were still able to make a enough plays to help Chicago earn the victory. The unit has been playing very well of late and will now look to slow down the Raiders in Week 12. Oakland has been playing much better on offense since the addition of Carson Palmer, so the unit could be tested next Sunday. Consider the Bears a No. 1 Fantasy DST against the Raiders.
News: The Bears DST will be looking to slow down the Chargers in Week 11. Chicago enters the contest ranked 25th in total defense, allowing 376.3 yards and 20.8 points per game. Meanwhile San Diego enters Sunday's contest ranked seventh in total offense, averaging 396.7 yards and 24 points per game. The Bears DST is ranked fourth, in terms of Fantasy points and have racked up 18 sacks, while forcing 20 turnovers and accounting for seven touchdowns.
Analysis: The Bears DST has played very well over the last few games and will look to keep rolling along this Sunday. However, that could be easier said than done against the Chargers. San Diego has a ton of weapons on the offensive side of the ball and can put up points in a hurry. Still, the Bears have Devin Hester, who capable of returning every kick he returns for a touchdown. Consider the Bears a No. 1 Fantasy DST in Week 11.
News: Chicago's defense and special team's showed up on Sunday against Detroit. Brian Urlacher recovered a Calvin Johnson fumble on the opening drive of the game and the turnovers just kept coming. The Bears intercepted Matthew Stafford four times in the second half, returning two of them for touchdowns. Devin Hester also did what he does best and returned a punt 82 yards for a score. Chicago held Detroit to 80 yards on the ground as they were without Jahvid Best. And despite Stafford throwing for 329 yards in the contest, the Bears flustered him all day. DB D.J. Moore was also ejected after going after Stafford during an interception return.
Analysis: With the melee that ensued after the Stafford and Moore incident could result in some fines and/or suspensions which is something to monitor. The Bears stepped up big time on Sunday and it doesn't get much easier for them. They host the Chargers in Week 11, a team with an explosive offense but it's been inconsistent. Fantasy owners should consider the Bears DST a borderline DST option for now, but that could change by game day.
News: After giving up 395 yards of total offense and 24 points against the Lions earlier in the year, the Bears will face off against the division foe again in Week 10. Detroit ranks 10th in the league in passing offense, averaging over 260 yards per game and 27th in rushing. Chicago enters Sunday ranked 12th in the NFL against the run but 26th in pass defense. The Bears have recorded 16 sacks thus far with nine interceptions and four defensive/special teams touchdowns.
Analysis: The Bears gave up two huge touchdown plays against the Lions in Week 5 which ended up being the difference in the game. But they have been playing better of late and held the Eagles to 330 yards a week ago. Chicago has fared better at home this season but they still really don't have anyone that can cover WR Calvin Johnson. Heading into Week 10, consider the Bears DST as more of a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: The Bears DST came up with some big stops on Monday night in Philadelphia. Chicago came away with a huge Week 9 win over the Eagles as the DST limited Philadelphia to 330 yards in a 30-24 victory. The Bears DST forced two turnovers in the game as Chicago's Major Wright intercepted a pass and the team also recovered a fumble. The Bears DST only finished with one sack of Michael Vick in the win, however, they were able to limit Vick to just 213 yards passing, 34 yards rushing and no touchdowns.
Analysis: The Bears were led by LB Brian Urlacher's 11 tackles in the Week 9 Monday night game. The unit came up huge in the end, but was slightly underwhelming on the big stage in terms of Fantasy production with just the two turnovers forced and one sack. The Bears DST heads into Week 10 against Detroit and the Lions are one of the best at limiting the Fantasy production of the opposing DST they are facing. Matthew Stafford of the Lions has not thrown an INT in three straight games and Detroit has been pretty good at limiting turnovers overall. Chicago has forced plenty of turnovers this season, but could have trouble against the Lions. Consider them a borderline unit worth starting if you have been all season in the Week 10 game.
News: The Bears defense has done a solid job of limiting teams in recent weeks but will be going up against a potent offense in Week 9 when they take on the Eagles. Philadelphia sports the league's best rushing attack, averaging nearly 180 yards per game, and rank ninth in passing. Chicago ranks 12th in the NFL against the run but 28th in pass defense. The Bears have recorded 15 sacks thus far with eight interceptions and four defensive/special teams touchdowns.
Analysis: When Chicago faced Philadelphia a year ago, they gave up 398 yards of total offense and caused one turnover in the 31-26 win. But the Eagles have made some significant changes to their team since then and are coming off a 34-7 trouncing of the Cowboys. The key to Monday's game will be keeping QB Michael Vick in check but with the way the Bears' secondary has struggled thus far, it doesn't appear to be a good matchup. Consider the Bears DST as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 9.
News: The Bears forced four interceptions in their Week 7 win over the Buccaneers, holding Tampa Bay to 18 points in the 24-18 victory. They held the Bucs to just 280 yards of total offense in the game, adding one sack.
Analysis: With the Bucs losing RB Earnest Graham to an injury early in the game, the Bears were able to key in on QB Josh Freeman Tampa Bay was left without much of a running threat. They kept him under constant pressure all game and while they were only able to manage the one sack, they forced him into several bad passes that resulted in the interceptions. The Bears defensive unit continues to be a high-end option for Fantasy owners, but you'll have to seek alternatives with the team on a bye in Week 8. They'll return to action in Week 9 at Philadelphia in what could be a tough matchup.
News: The Bears travel to London in Week 7 to take on the Buccaneers. Coming into the game, the Bucs offense ranks 15th in the NFL, averaging 350.5 yards of offense per game. They have averaged 18.8 points in their six contests so far. Tampa Bay has turned the ball over eight times and have given up nine sacks.
Analysis: After making a much-heralded switch at the safety position, the Bears defensive unit posted a solid performance in Week 6 against a weak Vikings offense, totaling five sacks and even scoring some points with a sack. Devin Hester returned a kick for a touchdown in the game. The Bucs do not pose a significant threat to one of the higher-rated defensive units in Fantasy, making them a solid No. 1 option for any format this week.
News: The Bears defense did a solid job limiting the Vikings in Week 6. Chicago held Minnesota to 286 yards of total offense, including just 53 yards rushing in the 39-10 win. The Bears also recorded five sacks, including rookie DL Stephen Paea sacking QB Donovan McNabb in the end zone for a safety.
Analysis: The Bears allowed their fewest points of the season on Sunday as they terrorized the Vikings up front. Having DL Julius Peppers healthy was also a boost, as he recorded two of the five sacks. Chicago could have similar success next week against Tampa Bay in London so continue to roll with the Bears DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Bears DE Julius Peppers is doubtful to play vs. the Vikings in Week 6 after not practicing all week. Teammates had speculated that he'd give it a go, but he's reportedly dealing with a sprained MCL. Chicago enters Sunday ranked 27th in the league against the pass and 28th in run defense while Minnesota ranks third and 31st in rushing and passing, respectively.
Analysis: The Bears are also making moves at safety after getting burned there by the Lions last week. Chicago has recorded four interceptions thus far with nine sacks and three DST touchdowns. Fantasy owners should not consider this DST a slam dunk for Week 6 and should consider other options -- including the Vikings.
News: The Chicago Tribune reports that the Bears are expected to bench safeties Chris Harris and Brandon Meriweather for Sunday's game against the Vikings. It would mark the sixth change at strong safety in six games this season and the fifth different starting combination used by the team. With Major Wright expected to take over at strong safety this week, it will mark the 28th change in starting safeties Lovie Smith has made since being hired in 2004. Rookie third-round draft pick Chris Conte is expected to start at free safety, and if that happens it will mark the 24th change in starting free safeties.
Analysis: That’s 52 combined changes in 118 regular-season games for Smith, or one every 2.3 games. The Bears have used 13 different starting free safeties and 12 different starting strong safeties. Chicago's defense has not looked as good as it has in years past but they will be facing a lesser offense in Week 6 when the Vikings come to town. The Bears held Minnesota to 27 total points in two meetings a year ago so continue to view their DST as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: The Bears defense had a hard time limiting the Lions in Week 5. Chicago gave up 395 yards of total offense, including 181 on the ground, in the 24-13 loss. Detroit had scoring plays of 73 yards, on a pitch and catch from QB Matthew Stafford to WR Calvin Johnson, and 88 yards on a run by Jahvid Best. The Bears were able to sack Stafford once and also recorded an interception.
Analysis: The Bears held the Lions to just seven points in the first half but with their offense struggling, their defense was on the field a lot in the second half and got carved up by some big plays. Chicago's defense has not looked as good as it has in years past but they will be facing a lesser offense in Week 6 when the Vikings come to town. The Bears held Minnesota to 27 total points in two meetings a year ago so continue to view their DST as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Normally Chicago LB Brian Urlacher likes to point out the Bears defense doesn't worry about giving up yardage and rather the team is focused on limiting points. But after allowing a combined 86 points in three weeks, Chicago has dropped to 2-2 entering its Week 5 outing against unbeaten Detroit on Monday night. "The yards have been there a lot and points, as well -- given up a lot of points and yards, which isn’t a good thing," Urlacher said. "We're not making big plays. We're giving up too many long runs, too many long passes."
Analysis: The 1,703 total yards surrendered by the Bears' defense is the worst four-game stretch yardage-wise by the team since 1953. "Luckily we've managed to win two of those games, but I don't know what it is," Urlacher said. We’re just not doing the things we normally do." One of Chicago's top weaknesses is defending the pass, an area the Lions have thrived in early this year and are averaging 301.3 passing yards per game (seventh in the NFL). The Bears could also be without DB Chris Harris (hamstring) again Sunday. Consider Chicago a high-end No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 5, mainly because of the presence of star returner Devin Hester.
News: The Bears DST almost single-handedly defeated the Panthers on Sunday of Week 4 in Chicago. The Bears' offense did little outside Matt Forte's 205 rushing yards, but the defense and special teams scored two touchdowns. D.J. Moore returned a Cam Newton interception 20 yards for a touchdown in the first quarter, and Devin Hester returned a punt 69 yards for another DTD in the second quarter. The Bears defeated the Panthers 34-29 in the game as the DST allowed Carolina to rack up 543 yards of offense in the game. The Bears DST forced only one turnover on the Newton INT and Chicago could not sack Newton even one time in the game. The Bears DST also blocked a field goal in the game.
Analysis: The Bears DST gave Fantasy owners who started them everything they could ask for in the Week 4 win. That said, take away the DTDs and it would have been a pretty miserable effort. The defense in general has been underwhelming, but they were pretty opportune on Sunday. Heading into Week 5 at Detroit, we're not sure the defense will be able to inflict its will against the red-hot Lions. Consider the Bears DST a No. 2 Fantasy unit for Week 5 against the Lions.
News: The Bears DST might have one of its easiest tests upcoming in Week 4 at home against the Carolina Panthers. Facing rookie QB Cam Newton, the Chicago defense must be licking its lips, especially after having to face Aaron Rodgers and the Packers Week 3. The Bears DST struggled last week and managed three turnovers forced and two sacks against Rodgers. In fact, Chicago's only solid week came in the opening one when they were up over 20 Fantasy points scored against the Falcons with five sacks, three turnovers forced and a defensive and special teams touchdown.
Analysis: The Bears DST has underwhelmed the last two weeks against the Saints and Packers. Luckily, the Panthers don't have nearly the same type of offense. The Panthers are allowing opposing DST units the eighth-most Fantasy points per game on the season, and that number would be higher had the Panthers not beaten the hapless Jaguars last week. The Bears DST should do solid things Week 4 and should be considered a solid start as a No. 1 Fantasy unit.
News: The Bears DST couldn't really stop Aaron Rodgers and the Packers in the Week 3 loss at home to Green Bay. The Packers defeated the Bears 27-17 as the Bears DST gave up 392 yards of offense to Green Bay. The Bears DST did force two turnovers, as Brian Urlacher intercepted Rodgers and Julius Peppers recovered a fumble. Chicago managed two sacks of Rodgers in the game.
Analysis: The Bears DST certainly had a rebound performance in Week 3 against the Packers, after doing little in Week 2 at New Orleans. With Urlacher on your defense, you are going to play well more often than not. This unit is not a complete one, however, and they will struggle at times. The Bears DST has not been overly opportune this season, but that could change in Week 4 against Carolina. Urlacher will be licking his lips facing rookie QB Cam Newton. Consider the Bears DST a unit worth starting against the Panthers in Week 4.
News: The Bears DST has been a Jekyll and Hyde unit after two weeks of the season heading into Week 3 against Green Bay. The unit recorded just one sack and one forced fumble Week 2 at New Orleans, after making five sacks and forcing three turnovers with a defensive and special teams touchdown Week 1 against Atlanta. The Packers have not been kind to opposing DSTs this season, either. Aaron Rodgers has only been sacked three times and the team only has one turnover in two games.
Analysis: The Bears DST is coming off an awful Week 2 in New Orleans and the Packers provide them with another huge defensive challenge. Green Bay is prolific offensively and we just don't think it is smart to go with the Bears DST. Consider them just a low-end No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 3 against the offense of the Packers.
News: The Bears defense prepared all week to stop the Saints offense, but it couldn't get the job done Week 2 in a 30-13 loss. The Saints put up 382 yards of offense and three touchdowns -- all passing from QB Drew Brees. Chicago forced once turnover and sacked Brees just once.
Analysis: The Bears defense had a great performance in Week 1 against the Falcons, but it knew it would have its hands full in Week 2 against the Saints. They got all they could handle and couldn't meet the challenge. The Bears DST is usually a reliable Fantasy option, but you might consider using another team in Week 3 because Chicago will have another challenge in trying to slow down the Packers' high-flying offense.
News: Heading into their Week 2 matchup, Bears LB Lance Briggs warned against thinking New Orleans' offense is one-dimensional -- that dimension being QB Drew Brees' arm. "I think last year they had a lot of running back problems where they had a lot of injuries there," he said. "They’re all healthy now and they have a young Mark Ingram who is a tough, downhill runner." The Saints totaled 34 stats and 477 yards in Week 1 against the Packers.
Analysis: The Bears did surrender 386 yards in Week 1 against the Falcons, but they held the NFC contenders to 12 points and just one touchdown. The Saints offense is more fast-paced and should put up a decent amount of yards against the Bears. However, Chicago should have LB Brian Urlacher available after he returned to practice Thursday following a personal leave. You usually start the Bears DST in Fantasy, but with a tough matchup in Week 2, you might consider using a one-week alternative if that is a feasible option. Otherwise, starts the Bears DST and hope for the best.
News: The Bears defense was responsible for a touchdown, an interception and a fumble recovery while allowing two field goals (12 points total thanks to a defensive touchdown) against the Falcons in Week 1. Matt Ryan threw an interception when Brian Urlacher dove in front of a pass intended to Tony Gonzalez, then Urlacher returned a Matt Ryan fumble for a touchdown. The Falcons threw for 319 yards and ran for 110 total yards but couldn't strike pay dirt.
Analysis: The Bears will have an equally challenging matchup in Week 2 when they head to New Orleans and face the Saints. Drew Brees should have ample opportunities to throw and the run game for New Orleans will be challenging for the Bears. We could see owners starting the Bears DST based on their reputation and expectations, but we think other units will do better.
News: The Bears will have their hands full with the Falcons offense on Sunday. Not only will Michael Turner lurk in the backfield, but the team added Julio Jones to its receiving corps that already had Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez. Other low-end weapons like Harry Douglas and Jason Snelling could also cause issues. The Bears did improve their secondary with the signing of Brandon Meriweather but could still come under fire from Matt Ryan early and often.
Analysis: The expectation is that the Bears will give up a decent amount of points while racking up some sacks and perhaps a turnover or two. Even with the allure of the Bears' return game, there are better matchups to check out for Week 1. Use the Bears DST if you've got them and don't have room or desire to carry a second unit.
News: The Bears report Sunday that they have agreed to terms with ex-Patriots safety Brandon Meriweather on a one-year contract. The Patriots released Meriweather, a a two-time Pro Bowler, on Saturday during cut-down day.
Analysis: Meriweather will only enhance what the Bears are able to do on defense, and this is a good signing to pick up a player who could be motivated for a big year. We consider the Bears DST a solid No. 1 option on Draft Day, and they are worth drafting with a late-round pick.
News: The Bears drafted Oregon DT Stephen Paea with a second-round pick in April's draft, highlighting three defensive selections. They also took Cal safety Chris Conte (Round 3) and West Virginia LB J.T. Thomas (Round 7).
Analysis: Of the three, Paea has the best shot to earn playing time with the defense in 2011. He should help Julius Peppers and Israel Idonije by drawing defenders and giving them and the linebackers behind him lanes to get to the quarterback while shutting down the run. Between the solid defense and excellent kick-return game the Bears have, this is a DST worth drafting late in Fantasy.
News: The Chicago defense knew it would have to prevent Green Bay QB Aaron Rodgers from a big outing in Sunday's NFC Championship if it hoped to advance to its second Super Bowl in the last five years. The Bears adequately held Rodgers in check but could not overcome two early touchdowns and the loss of starting QB Jay Cutler in a 21-14 defeat to the Packers. Chicago allowed 244 passing yards to Rodgers but also held him without a passing touchdown for the third time this season. He did, however, record a 1-yard touchdown less than five minutes into the first quarter. Another rushing touchdown by RB James Starks put the Bears in a 14-0 hole at halftime. "We started too slow," Chicago DE Julius Peppers said. "We settled down at the end of the first half, played better in the second half, but we got off to a slow start."
Analysis: The Bears defense effectively clamped down Green Bay's offense in the second half and limited the Packers to just 16 second-half rushing yards. Chicago forced Rodgers into two interceptions -- his first two-pick outing since Week 7 against Minnesota -- and allowed only six first downs in the second half. After finishing second during the regular season in fewest rushing yards allowed (90.1), the Bears surrendered 120 yards to the Packers. Green Bay's two rushing touchdowns marked only the second time this season an opponent has scored twice on the ground against Chicago. Fantasy owners should again target the Bears DST as a solid option in 2011 drafts.
News: One of Chicago's main concerns coming into Sunday's NFC Divisional Playoff was how its defense would look with two weeks off and three weeks since it last played a meaningful game. The Bears quickly alleviated all doubt and shut down the Seattle offense for a dominating 35-24 victory to advance to the NFC Championship game. Chicago held the Seahawks, who scored 41 points in an upset victory against New Orleans in the Wild Card Round, to only three points and 111 yards through the first three quarters. The Bears allowed 21 fourth-quarter points with the outcome already decided and exacted revenge for a 23-20 loss to Seattle in Week 6. Most impressive, Chicago limited Seattle to just 34 rushing yards, the fifth opponent it has held under 50 yards this season. "Now we're back, playing together, hopefully peaking at the right time," Bears LB Brian Urlacher said.
Analysis: With another dominating effort, the Bears defense showed why it has been one of the best at limiting points this season. Chicago, which allowed just 286 points during the regular season (fourth-fewest in the league), kept constant pressure on Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck and recorded two sacks in the game. "Our defense isn't a flashy defense," Bears safety Chris Harris said. "We're not built that way. We don't have flashy guys on defense. We've got a bunch of blue collar guys who just do their job." Chicago limited Seattle to just 21 percent (3 of 14) on third down and only surrendered five first downs in the first two quarters. The Bears, who battle rival Green Bay for the NFC title next Sunday, makes for a solid DST option in playoff leagues and 2011 drafts.
News: Despite having their first-round bye already locked up, the Bears entire starting defense played the whole game in Week 17 against the Packers and were able to limit their potent offense for most of the outing. Chicago held Green Bay to 284 yards of total offense and picked off QB Aaron Rodgers, but still lost the game 10-3. DB Charles Tillman intercepted Rodgers early in the second half and brought the ball all the way down to the 15-yardline. Chicago also recorded two sacks and forced a fumble in the defeat.
Analysis: The Bears DST had another solid campaign as they allowed just 17.8 points per game and ranked in the top 10 in most defensive categories. Getting three punt returns for touchdowns also helped their Fantasy value and they will now head into the playoffs with a first-round bye. Keep an eye on how the squad does in the postseason but plan on targeting the Bears DST as a top 5 option on Draft Day in 2011.
News: Chicago's defense did not have their finest performance in their last outing and will face a potent offense when they travel to Green Bay in Week 17. The Bears sport the third-best run defense in the league, allowing just 92.1 yards per contest, but have given up over 224 passing yards per game, ranking them 18th in the NFL. The Packers have the fifth-best passing attack in the league, putting up 260 yards per contest, and rank 22nd in rushing.
Analysis: The Bears allowed the Jets to score 34 points and put up 393 yards of total offense a week ago and could be in for a similar performance against the Packers on Sunday. Green Bay needs to win to make the postseason while Chicago will likely rest most of their starters as they have already locked up a first-round bye. QB Aaron Rodgers has the Packers offense clicking on all cylinders so Fantasy owners would be wise stay away from the Bears DST in Week 17.
News: The Bears defense allowed 34 points and yielded 393 total yards in their Week 16 win vs. the Jets. Chicago did pick off QB Mark Sanchez once and recovered a Santonio Holmes fumble, but they did not get a sack of Sanchez or score on a kick return in the game.
Analysis: The Bears have a matchup against the Packers in Green Bay in Week 17, and with the Packers' offense on fire, it's tough to like the Bears to shut down Aaron Rodgers & Co. You might want to consider other options before going with this DST.
News: On Sunday, the Bears will welcome the Jets to Soldier Field for a Week 16 battle. They might be getting them at just the right time. Quarterback Mark Sanchez has some torn cartilage in his shoulder and might not play, and deep threat receiver Santonio Holmes is dealing with a bout of turf toe. Running back LaDainian Tomlinson has been running on empty of late, and teammate Shonn Greene hasn't been playing much better. The Bears defense held the Vikings to 14 points last week and has given up 21 or more points just three times this season (Patriots, Eagles, Seahawks).
Analysis: Not only will Bears DST owners get a good matchup defensively, but they'll get a bonus with Devin Hester returning kicks and punts (he's fresh off of setting an NFL record). Given all of the Jets' injuries and recent turnovers (Sanchez alone has 12 interceptions and five lost fumbles in his last nine), you have to like the Bears DST in Week 16.
News: The Bears defense did a solid job of limiting the Vikings in Week 15 and got back on track after allowing a season-high 36 points in their last outing. Chicago held Minnesota to just 273 total yards and caused five turnovers in the 40-14 win. They also got a big play on special teams as WR Devin Hester returned a punt 64 yards for a touchdown, setting an NFL record with his 14th career return for a score. DL Julius Peppers intercepted QB Brett Favre in the first quarter and rookie DL Corey Wootton knocked him out of the game later in the first half. DBs Charles Tillman and Chris Harris both picked off backup QB Joe Webb in the victory.
Analysis: The Bears defense and special teams dominated the Vikings on Monday night and held their division foe to under 15 points for the second time this season. On a cold and wet night, Chicago pressured both of Minnesota's quarterbacks all night long and were able to create turnovers. Having Hester adding to their DST appeal doesn't hurt either. The Bears have had one of the better defenses in the league all season long and should be in for another solid performance next Sunday against the Jets. New York is equally as good on defense but their offense ranks sixth and 20th in the league in rushing and passing, respectively. Chicago matches up pretty well with New York so continue to view the Bears DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option heading into Week 16.
News: The Bears gave up a season-high 36 points in their last outing but will face a much less potent offense in Week 15 when they travel to Minnesota to take on the Vikings. Minnesota has been banged up on offense in recent weeks and might have to turn to rookie QB Joe Webb if veteran Brett Favre (shoulder) is unable to go. Chicago ranks second in the NFL against the run, allowing just 87.9 yards per contest, but 18th against the pass. Minnesota sports the ninth-best running attack but rank 23rd in passing. The possibility of a rookie QB increases the chances of Chicago forcing turnovers, a department they have under-achieved in this season. "We have to take the ball away," coach Lovie Smith said. "That's how we play football. For whatever reason, we haven't been able to do it. Last week we had opportunities. We dropped interceptions, but I saw guys attempting to strip the ball."
Analysis: The Bears held the Vikings to just 13 points and 240 yards of total offense when the division foes met earlier in the year but Minnesota has deal with a myriad of injuries since then. Along with their quarterback troubles, RB Adrian Peterson has been banged up along with electric WR Percy Harvin. If the rookie Webb gets the nod, expect the Vikings to pound the rock with Peterson, which plays into the favor of the Bears. While New England carved up Chicago a week ago, their offense is in a different stratosphere than Minnesota's. Consider the Bears DST a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 15.
News: The Bears played a game that included freezing temperatures and strong winds in Week 14 against the Patriots. Neither helped them slow down New England. Chicago gave up a season-high 475 yards of total offense in the 36-7 loss. Patriots QB Tom Brady threw for a season-high 369 yards with two scores on a Bears defense that entered Sunday ranked second in the NFL against the pass. Chicago sacked Brady three times in the blowout but were unable to cause a turnover.
Analysis: The Bears defense hadn't allowed more than 26 points in a game this season but were blown out by the Patriots in Week 14. They gave up 33 in the first half and luckily New England called off the dogs late in the game. Chicago an numerous chances at turnovers on Sunday but they could not come up with the big play. Fantasy owners have to be disappointed with this performance but hopefully they will be able to bounce back next week against the Vikings. When the division foes met earlier in the year, Minnesota was held to 13 points and 240 yards of total offense. Considering the matchup, view the Bears DST as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 15.
News: The Patriots-Bears Week 14 matchup in Chicago will be impacted by freezing temperatures, strong winds including gusts over 40 m.p.h. and several inches of snow. The Bears enter this week as the fifth-ranked DST unit in the league, and with Patriots QB Tom Brady having to contend with the elements, the Bears could wind up limiting New England to far less than their typical yardage. “There will be low visibility, probably even in the stadium,” National Weather Service meteorologist Richard Castro told the DeKalb Daily Chronicle. “There will be snow on the field, and that will be blowing around with the very strong winds. The other thing is, being right on the lakefront, that’s where we’re expecting the strongest wind gusts out of this storm.”
Analysis: You can read more on the weather at Soldier Field in Chicago here. The Bears DST is active in only 62 percent of the leagues on CBSSports.com, so now would be a good time to get them off your bench with a potentially big Week 14 in store.
News: The Bears enter Week 14 against the Patriots on a five-game winning streak but have given up some points over their last few outings. Chicago is allowing 15.6 points per game during their streak and rank second and 13th in the league is pass and rush defense, respectively. New England enters Sunday ranked 11th in the league in passing and 13th in rushing.
Analysis: The Bears defense and special teams have kept them in games this season and they will be needed to again if they plan on beating the Patriots in Week 14. New England put up 45 points in their last outing and are averaging 40 points over their last four games. Sunday's game will be a cold, windy affair, which Chicago is built for. But considering that New England has been clicking on all cylinders offensively in recent weeks, Fantasy owners should view the Bears DST as a No. 2 option for Week 14.
News: The Bears DST held off the Lions late after taking a late lead in the Week 13 24-20 victory in Detroit. The Bears DST allowed the Lions to rack up 302 yards of offense in the game. They could not force a single Lions turnover but did manage to sack QB Drew Stanton twice in the game. Punt returner Devin Hester just missed setting the NFL record for career return touchdowns, but the punter stopped him before he found pay dirt.
Analysis: The Bears got the Week 13 win but could barely limit the Lions' points and yards. They couldn't force any turnovers and only sacked Stanton, making his first NFL start, twice in the game. All around, it was a dismal effort for the Bears DST. It won't be easier in Week 14, either, with the Patriots coming to Chicago. The Bears DST has been a solid unit all year. If you start them every week, continue to roll with them and hope for a bounce-back performance.
News: The Bears head into Week 13 in Detroit as the No. 1 overall DST unit in Fantasy in terms of total Fantasy points. The Bears DST had a tough test Week 12 against Philadelphia, but came away with a decent effort, becoming the first team to pick off a Michael Vick pass and adding four sacks of the mobile QB. The Bears DST has recorded double-digit Fantasy point efforts in all but two games this season and that game against Vick was one.
Analysis: The Bears DST has 10 sacks in the last two games so Detroit QB Drew Stanton better watch out. The Lions don't give up a ton of Fantasy points to opposing DST units, but the Bears could force them into it. Stanton will be making just his fourth appearance of the season in Week 13 and it will be his first start with the Lions. We like the Bears' chances with that scenario and consider them a must-start No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 13.
News: The Chicago defense accomplished a feat Sunday that no other team has this season -- it picked off Philadelphia quarterback Michael Vick. The Bears brought constant pressure on the mobile quarterback, intercepting him once and sacking him four times during a 31-26 victory in Week 12. Each starting Bears defensive lineman recorded a sack and held the Eagles to just two touchdowns. Near the end of the second quarter, safety Chris Harris recorded the first interception of Vick since Dec. 24, 2006. "I wanted to be the first one to pick him, get it on the resume," Harris said. We talked about it. He had the highest quarterback rating of any quarterback, 11 TDs, zero picks. And I was fortunate enough to get one."
Analysis: Although the Eagles' 26 points were the most the Bears defense has allowed this season, Chicago never surrendered the lead and limited the talented Philadelphia rushing attack to just 105 yards. The Bears did force Vick to fumble the ball four times (although none lost), and held each Eagles receiver under 100 yards, the third consecutive game it has not allowed an opposing wideout to reach the century mark. With a trip to reeling Detroit in Week 13, the Chicago defense could post another strong Fantasy output.
News: The Bears will face a formidable task in Week 12 during their quest for two shutouts in a row. Chicago, which recorded its first shutout since Nov. 19, 2006 in a Week 11 victory over Miami, faces a Philadelphia offense fueled by resurgent quarterback Michael Vick that has scored 112 points in its last three games (all wins). The Eagles, coming off a 27-17 win over the Giants in Week 11, have scored at least 26 points in each their seven wins this season. Conversely the Bears, tied with the Packers in allowing an NFL-low 14.6 points per game, have held each opponent this season under 24 points.
Analysis: This game is shaping up to be a true grudge match. Chicago is ranked third overall in the NFL in team defense and second against the rush. Philadelphia boasts the league's second-best offense and No. 3 rushing offense. Something has to give. The Bears are second in the NFL with 25 takeaways while the Eagles have turned the ball over just twice in games that Vick has started and finished this season. Still if there's one team that could limit Vick's explosiveness, it could be Chicago. Granted Vick is a dual-threat on offense but the Bears are holding opposing quarterbacks to an average of 9.6 Fantasy points a game. Consider them a No. 1 Fantasy DST in Week 12.
News: The Bears defense was preparing for the run heading into the Week 11 matchup with the Dolphins because QB Tyler Thigpen was getting his first start since 2008. They did their job, limiting Ronnie Brown, Ricky Williams and company to 38 yards on the ground. They also proved stout against the pass, giving up just 148 yards. What they didn't necessarily prepare for -- a shutout on the road -- they also got in the 16-0 victory. The Bears got to Thigpen a season-high six times on the night, three of the sacks came from Julius Peppers. DB Charles Tillman intercepted Thigpen in the first quarter, leading to a field goal. Chicago held the injury-plagued Dolphins to just 187 total yards. The Bears' first-team defense wanted to stay on the field at game's end to preserve the shutout. "When you have a team down, you want to keep them down," Peppers said. "It's still good tonight for them to get sacks to validate what they've been doing," coach Lovie Smith said. "I thought the guys had constant pressure throughout."
Analysis: The Bears dominated the game in every aspect, and looked as such for the first time since reaching the Super Bowl in 2006 with a run-first, defend the run mentality. Miami's deepest penetration of the night was to Chicago's 41-yard line, and that came on the game's final possession. Its second deepest possession was to Chicago's 45 on Miami's first possession. On six of 10 possessions, Miami didn't make it to Chicago territory. The biggest difference could be the health of the defense, particularly LB Brian Urlacher (five tackles, sack). It also helps to bring in a dominating pass-rusher like Julius Peppers (six tackles, three sacks). In Week 12, the defense will try to limit a much more explosive offense than the Dolphins -- when Michael Vick and the Eagles come to town. Philadelphia scores the second most points per game (28.6) in the NFL . We see the Bears DST as more of a No. 2 Fantasy option heading into that matchup.
News: With QB Tyler Thigpen likely making his first NFL start since 2008, the Bears defense is aware of the Dolphins likely re-dedication to the running game, and possible re-emergence of the Wildcat when the two teams meet in Week 11. "A lot of people see the Wildcat and they freeze," LB Brian Urlacher said. "We don’t, we get downhill, If we do that we’ll be OK." Chicago ranks second in the NFL against the run, allowing just 83.3 yards per game. Miami RBs -- Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams -- have each failed to reach 100 yards in every game this season.
Analysis: The Bears should be fine against the run, but the lack of film on Thigpen running Miami's offense could be a problem on Thursday night. He has a "gunslinger" mentality, but has a great ability to scramble for yards or to buy WRs time to get separation. Several QBs who have started with as little recent experience as Thigpen's going into the season -- Colt McCoy, Shaun Hill and most notably Michael Vick -- have all had early success. Still, the Bears ability to make the Dolphins one-dimensional dramatically increases their chances to stop an unproven QB, especially on a short week of game-planning and practice. Consider the Bears DST to be a low-end Fantasy option in Week 11.
News: The Bears defense did a great job in Week 10 not only containing Adrian Peterson -- a problem for them in the past -- but also knocking Brett Favre around. Against the Vikings, Chicago registered three interceptions and a forced fumble of Favre, hurrying him many times but not sacking him once. The Bears held Minnesota to 13 points and 240 total yards (with only 75 total to Peterson). Additionally, kick-returner Devin Hester had nearly 150 return yards on the game and was close to breaking a return for a score twice.
Analysis: The Bears DST should keep it rolling against the Dolphins in Week 11. True, they'll play in Miami on Thursday night, which is a quick turnaround, but they'll see third-string QB Tyler Thigpen, who also has to prepare in just four days time. Keep the Bears DST active as a top unit for the upcoming matchup.
News:Brett Favre will make what might be his final trip to Soldier Field on Sunday with the Vikings to take on the Bears in Week 10. Favre is coming off a career-best 446 passing yards against the Cardinals but faces a Chicago pass defense that's allowed just five passing touchdowns all season. The Bears rank 19th in the league against the pass with 225.8 passing yards allowed per game, but last week Ryan Fitzpatrick was one yard shy of recording the first 300-yard performance on the Bears since Week 3. In two games against the Bears last season Favre threw five touchdown passes (two to Visanthe Shiancoe and only one to Sidney Rice) with at least 320 yards in each game.
Analysis: The Bears DST still ranks as a Top-10 unit in 2010 but they've cooled after a hot start. Consider them a good but not great Fantasy option in Week 10; we like the Buccaneers or Cardinals better, for example.
News: The Bears DST gave up 340 total yards of offense to the Buffalo Bills on Sunday of Week 9. Fortunately for the Bears, they still managed to win the game against the winless Bills. It was a closely contested contest as the Bears pulled it out, 22-19. The Bears DST forced three turnovers in the game as Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick threw two interceptions, including one to end the game to DB Chris Harris. Fred Jackson lost a fumble for the other turnover. The Bears managed to take down Fitzpatrick for just one sack in the game. The Bears also recorded a blocked PAT try as Israel Idonije got one in the third quarter.
Analysis: The Bears DST failed to score a defensive touchdown for the third straight game but still managed to play fairly well for Fantasy owners. The Bears DST has been a solid unit all season and that should only continue for Week 10 against Minnesota. The Vikings can be solid but they have made plenty of mistakes this year with Brett Favre at the helm. Keep going with the Bears DST in most Fantasy formats for Week 10.
News: The Chicago Bears DST enters Week 9 at Buffalo after the bye week as one of the top Fantasy units in the league. The Bears DST is ranked fourth in terms of total Fantasy points and have allowed the third-fewest points and fifth-fewest total yards in the NFL. The Bears DST is healthy and regrouped after Chicago lost to Washington just before the bye week. The DST still did well against the Redskins with three turnovers forced, two sacks and a defensive touchdown.
Analysis: The Bears should have little trouble with the Bills on paper but Buffalo has not given up loads of Fantasy points to opposing DSTs this season. In fact, they have not given up a return or defensive touchdown all year. That said, the Bears should be able to get to QB Ryan Fitzpatrick and force him into making a few mistakes. The Dolphins, Packers and Jets DSTs performed well against Buffalo this season while the Patriots, Jaguars and Ravens all struggled. The Bears DST doesn't sound like a home run for Week 9, but they should be a serviceable unit in any Fantasy format.
News: The Chicago Bears DST did all it could to help beat the Redskins in Week 7 at home. Still, Jay Cutler threw four interceptions and they could not get the job done as Washington won 17-14. The Bears DST limited the Redskins to 308 yards of offense and did score a defensive touchdown in the game. Redskins QB Donovan McNabb dropped back to pass midway through the first quarter and his pass was batted in the air and caught for an interception by D.J. Moore, who returned it 54 yards for a score. The Bears DST forced three Redskins turnovers with two interceptions by McNabb. They also sacked McNabb twice in the loss.
Analysis: Fantasy owners certainly cannot complain about three turnovers forced, two sacks and a defensive touchdown against Washington in Week 7. The Bears, who lost Lance Briggs in the game with the same ankle injury that has plagued him, have been a solid No. 1 Fantasy unit and should continue to viewed as such. Avoid them in Week 8, however, as they are on bye. The Bears DST will return as a No. 1 unit for Week 9 at Buffalo.
News: The Bears DST heads into Week 7 against Washington following one of their worst performances of the season against Seattle last week. Failing to get a sack or turnover, Chicago gave up 23 points and 353 yards of offense to the Seahawks. That said, the Bears DST has definitely been a top Fantasy unit this season overall and Devin Hester is always a threat to take it to the house as he did against Seattle Week 6.
Analysis: The Bears DST has been a No. 1 unit in terms of Fantasy points per game but a closer look shows you they tend to struggle against solid offensive teams. The Seahawks embarrassed them last week and the Giants, Cowboys and Packers all were able to limit their turnovers and sacks, and gain plenty of yards, against Chicago. Plus, the Redskins have limited opposing DST's Fantasy points per game all year. They will take a few sacks, but Washington has limited its turnovers and has begun to inflict their will in the running game. Look for Washington to grind it out on the ground Week 7, a la the Seahawks Week 6, and expect the Bears DST to struggle a little once again. They should still be considered a viable start, however, as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST.
News: The Bears DST almost had an embarrassing game in Week 6 against the Seahawks, but returner Devin Hester saved the day with an 89-yard punt return touchdown. Chicago gave up 23 points and 353 yards to Seattle and failed to record a turnover or a sack.
Analysis: The Chicago unit looked like a must-start option in Week 6, but Seattle kept the ball on the ground as much as possible and QB Matt Hasselbeck managed to not throw a pick for the first time this season. The Bears DST will try to bounce back in Week 7 against the Redskins, but Fantasy owners might be thinking twice about using them after this awful outing.
News: The Bears DST is a must-start option in Week 6 against a Seahawks team that ranks 28th in total offense this season. Seatttle QB Matt Hasselbeck has thrown five interceptions in his last three games.
Analysis: The Bears DST ranks as the top unit in standard scoring leagues so far this season, and they should be able to stay there against the offensively-challenged Seahawks. Coming off a bye, Seattle really doesn't have even one elite weapon for Chicago to worry about, so start the Bears in all formats as a top-five Fantasy option for Week 6.
News: Chicago's defense pressured Carolina rookie QB Jimmy Clausen all day -- even forcing him out of the game due to his poor performance. The Bears sacked Clausen five times on Sunday after entering Week 5 with just four sacks. They also had three interceptions -- two coming off backup QB Matt Moore, who entered with less than four minutes left in the game. "We just try to get turnovers going against a rookie quarterback," Bears safety Chris Harris said of the win. "They haven't seen everything so you're trying to throw them off, disguise, so some different things back there in the back end to give them different looks." Chicago would prevail, 23-6, holding the running back tandem of DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart to a combined 81 yards on the ground. Chicago gave up a total of 181 yards of offense to Carolina.
Analysis: The defense was asked to step up with Jay Cutler out of action in Week 5 and step up they did. They did lose LB Lance Briggs for part of the game with an ankle injury, but with the game in hand, he didn't return. Owners of the Bears DST should monitor Briggs during the week, but with Seattle on deck for Week 6, Chicago looks like a good start. Seattle ranks 28th in the NFL in total offense as they average just 277 yards per contest. We like the Bears DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option in Week 6.
News: Chicago couldn't stop the run in Week 4 against the Giants as they gave up 189 yards and two touchdowns on the ground. Heading into Week 5 against Carolina, Chicago LB Lance Briggs said the defense is aiming to finish off tackles. "We had Ahmad Bradshaw tackled in the backfield a couple of times (last week) and didn't finish," Briggs said. "We let him out of our grasp, and those tackles for losses turned into positive yards." The Bears will have to deal with DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart this week, but also get a rookie quarterback in Jimmy Clausen. "It's good to get his feet moving, get a good pass rush when he's trying to throw," Briggs said on the game plan on Clausen. "(We want to) make it very difficult for him, give him a lot of welcome-to-the-NFL-type situations."
Analysis: With Jay Cutler out of action for the Bears' offense, the defense will look to shoulder more responsibility. Going up against a rookie quarterback, missing his best receiver makes the Bears DST an attractive option for Week 5. They can focus on the run, something they are normally extremely good against. They are allowing 77 yards per contest, so the team's Week 4 performance was not expected. Plus defenses are doing well against Carolina so far this season as they are averaging three sacks, 1.5 interceptions and 1.25 forced fumbles per game. That all comes out to around 17 Fantasy points per week, which is why we view Chicago's DST as a No. 1 option in Week 5.
News: The Bears did a solid job against the pass in Week 4 against the Giants but did not have the same success against the running game. Chicago gave up 189 yards and two touchdowns on the ground in the 17-3 loss. The Bears sacked QB Eli Manning twice in the game and held him to 195 yards passing. They also forced three fumbles, including when DB Zack Bowman stripped RB Ahmad Bradshaw as he was about to score a touchdown.
Analysis: The Bears played the Giants tough on Sunday night but got warn down towards the end as they spent much of the game on the field. Chicago remains adept at causing turnovers and limiting teams but only so much can be expected from them on a weekly basis. The Bears came into Week 4 having allowed an average of 39.7 rushing yards per game so they better get things in order as they face the Panthers and their two-headed monster at running back next Sunday. Fantasy owners should consider the Bears DST as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option for Week 5.
News: The Bears have had productive games in each of the first three weeks this season but will face a well-balanced Giants offense in Week 4. New York ranks ninth in the league in passing and 14th in rushing against Chicago, who is 28th in the league against the pass but No. 1 overall against the run. WR Devin Hester returned a punt for a touchdown against the Packers last week and could be a difference maker in Week 4.
Analysis: The Bears DST caused three turnovers in each of the first two games this season and forced two more along with the punt return in Week 3. The Giants will pose a more balanced threat to Chicago in Week 4 but the two teams matchup pretty well. The punt return by Hester last week is something their DST as been missing for years and hopefully it will become a trend for their special teams. The Bears can obviously stop the run so their biggest task will be limiting QB Eli Manning on Sunday. Fantasy owners should consider the Bears DST as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 option for Week 4.
News: The Bears did a solid job of stuffing the run in Week 3 against the Packers but did not have the same success against their passing game on Monday night. Chicago allowed QB Aaron Rodgers to throw for 316 yards and one touchdown but also picked him off once as LB Brian Urlacher tipped a Hail Mary pass at the end of the first half right into the arms of his teammate LB Lance Briggs. The Bears gave up just 63 rushing yards in the game, including a 3-yard touchdown scamper to Rodgers, but had a big play in special teams. After almost returning a punt for a touchdown earlier in the game, WR Devin Hester scored on a 62-yard punt return in the fourth quarter. Chicago did not record a sack but Urlacher forced a fumble in which CB Tim Jennings recorded towards the end of the game.
Analysis: The Bears defense has done a solid job against the run this season but needs to start putting more pressure on the quarterback in order to effect the passing game. The punt return by Hester is something their DST as been missing for years and hopefully it will become a trend for their special teams. Chicago faces a a Giants offense in Week 4 that ranks ninth in the league in passing yards per game and 14th in rushing. Consider Chicago a No. 2 Fantasy DST against New York.
News: The Bears have only given up 56 yards rushing through its first two games this season and will face a Packers offense in Week 3 that ranks 14th in the league, rushing for an average of 111 yards per game. Chicago has not fared as well against the pass though, giving up an average up 261 yards through the air. Green Bay QB Aaron Rodgers has thrown for 443 yards and four touchdowns so far this season with 29 yards on the ground and another touchdown. In two games against the Packers last season, the Bears gave up 21 points each time but held Rodgers to just about 180 yards passing in each game. Chicago also has a couple of key defensive guys questionable for Week 3 in LB Lance Briggs and DL Israel Idonije.
Analysis: The Bears are very familiar with the Packers and could jump out to an early lead in the NFC North with a victory in Week 3. Green Bay does not have much going on in the running game so Chicago will have to control the air in order to be effective. Rodgers has averaged 212 passing yards in four career games against the division rival with five touchdowns and two interceptions. The Bears have forced three turnovers per week thus far and that is solid production from a team that should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy DST. Consider Chicago a No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 3 against Green Bay.
News: The Bears DST certainly did not limit the Dallas passing game Week 2 in Big D. That said, the Bears did enough to beat the Cowboys 27-20, while still allowing 410 yards of offense in the game. Dallas managed 374 yards passing in the game but a lot of that came late with the Cowboys trying to come back frantically. The Bears did manage to force three Dallas turnovers as D.J. Moore came up with two deflected passes for interceptions. Chicago did not sack quarterback Tony Romo, however, though Brian Urlacher recovered a fumble.
Analysis: The Bears have just two sacks in two games -- both coming Week 1 against the Lions -- but Romo can be tough to bring down. The Bears have forced three turnovers per week thus far and that is solid production from a team that should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy DST. The Bears play against Green Bay at home in Week 3. That one should be a high-scoring game but turnovers are definitely going to happen.
News: The Bears DST performed admirably Week 1 as they allowed just 168 yards of offense, 14 points and forced three turnovers with two sacks. That said, Chicago did all that at home against the Lions. Week 2 sees the Bears travel to Dallas to face a Cowboys team that lost on the road to Washington in Week 1 in embarrassing fashion. Dallas is not going to want to start the season 0-2 and the offense should be clicking. The Redskins' defense bent but didn't break against Dallas as they still gave up 380 yards of offense. While they scored a defensive touchdown, it came on a freak play and the Redskins only forced one turnover with one sack.
Analysis: For the most part this season, the Bears DST will be considered a No. 1 Fantasy option to be used most weeks. Week 2, however, sees them facing one of the toughest opponents they will face all year on the road. The Cowboys have revenge in mind and if they can't take it out on the Redskins, the Bears will do nicely. They could get a couple turnovers thanks to Tony Romo's gun-slinging mentality, but we'd consider sitting the Bears DST Week 2. They are a No. 2 unit, at best, for the road game.
News: The Bears DST had three turnovers Sunday against Detroit (two fumbles and an interception) and also recorded two sacks in a 19-14 victory. On special teams, Devin Hester had five punt returns for 16 yards, and Danieal Manning had three kickoff returns for 70 yards. The Bears had 47 total tackles and gave up 168 total yards.
Analysis: The Bears DST played well, and they showed improvement with the return of Brian Urlacher and addition of Julius Peppers. We consider the Bears DST a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option most weeks, but they have a difficult matchup in Week 2 at Dallas. Consider sitting the Bears DST in the majority of leagues against the Cowboys.
News: Bears LB Brian Urlacher left the team's second preseason game vs. the Raiders after sustaining a calf injury on the first possession. It was Urlacher's first appearance at Soldier Field since the preseason of 2009 after he suffered a season-ending wrist injury in the regular-season opener at Green Bay last year. The Bears run defense was paltry on the remainder of the drive, which ended with a Jason Campbell touchdown plunge. "We don't think it's anything serious," head coach Lovie Smith said after the game.
Analysis: Urlacher is being counted on to help slam on the run for the Bears this season, so if his injury does end up being serious then Chicago's run defense could be in trouble. The unit is still worth evaluating as a No. 1 option because of their strong defensive line anchored by Julius Peppers and the team's vaunted special-teams game, but Urlacher's absence would be missed. Hopefully he'll be back in the fold soon. Look late in drafts for the Bears DST.
News: Bears QB Jay Cutler had something else to worry about Friday besides getting familiar with the Bears' new offense. It was Julius Peppers, the new Bear who immediately made his presence felt in non-contact scrimmages by pressuring Cutler and even knocking the ball out of his hand as he attempted to throw. The defense definitely had the upper hand as Peppers made a difference in the pass rush. He moved back and forth from right to left defensive end all practice and the Bears plan to use him that way. Chicago also had reacquired safety Chris Harris working with the first team at free safety while Danieal Manning surprised with the starting role at strong safety. Brian Urlacher was also back at full speed in the middle of the defense.
Analysis: The combination of Peppers coming off the edge, LB Brian Urlacher helping against the run, Chris Harris helping man the deep middle and a re-dedication of Devin Hester to kickoff returns make the Bears DST an interesting Fantasy option again. We elevated them to a low-end No. 1 unit since we expect to see a spike in sacks, interceptions and maybe even special-teams touchdowns.
News: The Bears spent their first three picks in the 2010 NFL draft on defense, selecting safety Major Wright (third round, Florida), DE Corey Wootton (fourth round, Northwestern) and CB Joshua Moore (fifth round, Kansas State). Wright will have a chance to start at free safety, Wootton should figure into the rotation at defensive end opposite Julius Peppers and Moore will battle for a spot on the depth chart. The Bears also reacquired Chris Harris via trade from Carolina, sending LB Jamar Williams in return. The addition of Wright and Harris spells bad news for the short-term futures of the safeties on their roster -- they already traded Kevin Payne to the Rams for a draft pick. Danieal Manning could be next, or he might just assume a role as a nickelback.
Analysis: The safety help is a welcome addition in Chicago, but we all know this defense revolves around DE Julius Peppers and what kind of pass rush he can deliver as well as LB Brian Urlacher and how capable he is of defending the middle of the field. Because Peppers is now a Bear and expected to generate a pass rush, the defense should churn out some decent stats for Fantasy owners. We elevated them to a low-end No. 1 unit since we expect to see a spike in sacks, interceptions and maybe even special-teams touchdowns.
News: The Bears have come to terms on a six-year deal with free-agent DE Julius Peppers, according to numerous news sources including the Chicago Sun-Times. He's expected to be the primary pass rusher for a Bears defense that had 34 sacks last season but couldn't maintain a consistent rush. Moreover, Peppers has dominated against NFC North offensive linemen including Pro Bowl OT Brian McKinnie and should also see easy matches against Packers and Lions offensive tackles.
Analysis: The combination of Peppers coming off the edge, LB Brian Urlacher helping against the run and a reported re-dedication of Devin Hester to kickoff returns make the Bears DST an interesting Fantasy option again. We elevated them to a low-end No. 1 unit since we expect to see a spike in sacks, interceptions and maybe even special-teams touchdowns. Anyone else they add to the mix will only help their cause.
News: The Bears have named ex-Lions coach Rod Marinelli as their defensive coordinator for the 2010 season. Marinelli was the team's defensive line coach in 2009. He effectively replaces Lovie Smith, who called the defensive plays last season while also doing duty as a head coach. "Rod is among the best defensive coaches in the NFL and will be an excellent defensive coordinator for us," Smith said. "We considered outside possibilities, but I didn't feel our defense would benefit the same way it will with Rod in the coordinator role. From the first day I became head coach of the Chicago Bears I envisioned Rod as our defensive coordinator. I considered him for the role last year, but wanted him to have the opportunity to work exclusively with our defensive line and become acclimated to our team. He will remain in our defensive line room, but will add the responsibility of the defensive calls on game day."
Analysis: The Bears' defense was a huge disappointment in 2009, and they're not on pace to rebound in 2010 based on their aging talent. Consider other options in drafts this summer unless the team pulls off a quick change.
News: The Bears announced Tuesday that head coach Lovie Smith will stay on with the team, though his role as defensive play caller will be taken away. Though it was initially reported that Rod Marinelli would take over the defense, the Chicago Tribune has learned that the team is expected to hire an outside coach to coordinate the defense. Smith said on Tuesday that he plans to keep the current defensive scheme.
Analysis: The Bears' defense was a huge disappointment in 2009, and they're not on pace to rebound in 2010 based on their aging talent. Consider other options in drafts this summer unless the team pulls off a quick change.
News: The Bears DST gave up 23 points and 349 yards to the Lions in a Week 17 win. Chicago got one interception and a couple of sacks.
Analysis: The Chicago DST has slipped down the ranking each of the last few seasons and finished in the bottom half of NFL units in 2009. They'll still be worth drafting late in deeper leagues this summer, but certainly won't be one of the more desired units in 2010.
News: Bears cornerback Charles Tillman was placed on injured reserve and will miss the season finale against Detroit after breaking his ribs and suffering a lung contusion. Defensive lineman Israel Idonije also went on IR on Wednesday because of a foot injury.
Analysis: These injuries will impact the Bears DST, and even though they are playing a sorry Lions offense in Week 17 owners cannot count on the team's backups to deliver a shutout or a brilliant effort. Consider other options before choosing the Bears DST in Week 17.
News: Chicago needed a few lucky bounces late in the Monday night game against the Vikings to walk away victorious. After taking a big lead early in the game, the Bears allowed Minnesota to score 30 points in the second half and force overtime. Chicago then missed a field goal in the overtime period that would have won the game. Eventually, the defense came up big as Hunter Hillenmeyer stripped Adrian Peterson in Bears' territory and set up the game-winning 39-yard TD pass from Jay Cutler to Devin Aromashodu for the win. The Bears DST bended but didn't break as they allowed 423 yards of offense in the 36-30 overtime win. The DST managed to sack QB Brett Favre twice in the game and could not force him into throwing even one interception. Favre did fumble and along with Peterson's, the Bears forced two total turnovers in the win. The Bears also blocked an extra-point attempt by Ryan Longwell.
Analysis: The Bears only picked up two sacks and two turnovers in the overtime win on Monday night. They were big sacks and turnovers but in the grand scheme of Fantasy points, this is not going to win you any leagues. The Bears DST has struggled for some time and they really showed it in the second half on Monday night. They will likely end strong, however, as the Bears play at Detroit in Week 17. The Chicago Bears DST is worth starting across the board against the Lions.
News: The Bears DST got a touchdown on a punt return from Earl Bennett, but the defense couldn't stop the Ravens on Sunday. Baltimore scored 31 points, and the Bears were limited to two sacks, one interception and a forced fumble. Bennett had four punt returns for 76 yards, Rashied Davis had three kickoff returns for 60 yards and Danieal Manning had three kickoff returns for 67 yards.
Analysis: The Bears DST is a No. 2 Fantasy option in most Fantasy leagues, but don't plan on using them in Week 16 against Minnesota.
News: In the Bears' Week 14 loss vs. the Packers, the DST wasn't entirely awful. They totaled two sacks and two forced fumbles and also held the Packers' offense relatively in check. True, they did allow 21 points and over 100 yards rushing, but Aaron Rodgers didn't throw a touchdown and had just 180 yards.
Analysis: The Bears DST will have another tough matchup in Week 15 against the Ravens, so continue benching them for their next matchup.
News: The Bears held the Rams to just 233 yards in Week 13. They allowed just 9 points in the game and forced two turnovers with two sacks in the game.
Analysis: The Bears were stuck in a defensive battle where just 26 points combined were scored. They held their ground against a very weak Rams offense and allowed nothing in the passing game. Things should get tougher in Week 14 against the Packers, but they remain a viable option in leagues of 12-plus teams.
News: Pro Bowl linebacker Lance Briggs is doubtful for the Chicago Bears' game against the St. Louis Rams in Week 13. Defensive tackle Tommie Harris (knee) and cornerback Charles Tillman (mild concussion) are questionable.
Analysis: Losing Briggs (sprained left knee) would be another big blow for a team that is 4-7 after dropping four straight and six of seven. He leads the Bears with 108 tackles and is just about the only bright spot for a defense that gave up 537 yards to the Vikings. It seems Fantasy owners will need to find an alternative for Briggs. Tillman is a name to keep tabs on when inactives come out since he is also a viable start when healthy. Harris has low-end Fantasy appeal. The Bears DST is a borderline start because of all their injuries.
News: Coach Lovie Smith offered nothing new in terms of updating the knee injury to LB Lance Briggs other than saying that the linebacker is having an MRI to determine the extent of his injury. Cornerback Charles Tillman is also dealing with a head injury but Smith gave no new information.
Analysis: The Bears DST has rapidly deteriorated and isn't worth starting unless they have a really good matchup. They host the Rams in Week 13, which is a fairly good matchup -- especially with Steven Jackson banged up. If you're desperate for a DST, consider the Bears but be aware that they might be without two of their best defenders.
News: The Bears couldn't mount any sort of resistance against the hosting Vikings in Week 12, allowing 36 points on 537 yards. They recorded two sacks and recovered two fumbles.
Analysis: The Bears DST hasn't looked stellar recently, but it has a chance to rebound in a big way Week 13 against the Rams. Normally, you'd treat it as a No. 2 Fantasy unit, but it's a No. 1 for that matchup.
News: The Bears DST played well Sunday against the Eagles despite losing 24-20. The Bears had three sacks, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and an interception. Johnny Knox had three kickoff returns for 97 yards and Danieal Manning had two kickoff returns for 57 yards. Devin Hester also had three punt returns for 15 yards.
Analysis: The Bears DST will look to play well in Week 12 at Minnesota, but consider the Vikings a No. 2 Fantasy option with Brett Favre playing at a high level. He has limited turnovers, and the Bears DST should struggle as a result.
News: The Bears defense was solid for the most part in a 10-6 loss to the 49ers on Thursday, helping the team nearly recover from a five-interception game from Jay Cutler. 49ers QB Alex Smith was held to just 118 yards passing, throwing an interception to Zack Bowman and failing to score a TD. On the ground, Frank Gore was successful, racking up 104 yards and a touchdown on 25 attempts. Smith was sacked twice in the game as well.
Analysis: In Week 9, the Bears were torched by Arizona for 41 points and 438 yards. They were far better in Week 10 against a less potent 49ers offense, looking a lot more like the team that allowed only six points in Week 8 against the Browns. The Bears defense has been torched a few times this season and Week 11 could be another one of those times as they take on a potentially dangerous Eagles offense. Think of the Bears DST as a No. 2 Fantasy option for that contest.
News: Even though they'll be playing at San Francisco on Thursday as part of Week 10 action, don't count on the Bears DST to be a strong performer for your Fantasy team. San Francisco QB Alex Smith might be good for multiple turnovers, but the Niners will likely lean on Frank Gore to gash the Chicago defense before Smith fires downfield to take advantage of a banged-up secondary that allowed five passing touchdowns last week and 16 on the season (vs. eight interceptions).
Analysis: Furthermore, the Bears DST has only come up big lately against the Browns' inept offense. Consider other options before going with this DST in Week 10.
News: The Chicago Bears defense has big problems following a 41-21 blowout loss to the Arizona Cardinals and they start with defensive tackle Tommie Harris. Harris was ejected on the fourth play of Sunday's game after throwing a punch at Cardinals offensive lineman Deuce Lutui. Harris apologized Monday to teammates, Bears fans and to Lutui. Harris, a three-time Pro Bowl player, could be suspended by the league.
Analysis: The Bears are 4-4 headed into Thursday night's game at San Francisco. Cornerback Charles Tillman, safety Al Afalava and safety Kevin Payne are nursing injuries, but even at full strength, the Bears defense is trying to bounce back from giving up more than 40 points in two of the last three games. The Bears DST just isn't what it used to be and is more of a top-end No. 2 Fantasy DST in Week 10 against the 49ers. If Harris misses the game because of a suspension of some sort, that will hurt the Bears defense even more. Consider other options. Harris is no better than a No. 3 DL in the first place. Keep him off of Fantasy rosters in standard leagues.
News: The Bears DST totaled one sack, one interception and two forced fumbles against the Cardinals in Week 9. Hurt by DT Tommie Harris getting ejected early in the game for punching a Cardinals player, the Bears couldn't get to QB Kurt Warner, who threw five touchdown passes on them.
Analysis: The Bears DST just isn't what it used to be and is more of a top-end No. 2 Fantasy DST in Week 10 against the 49ers. If Harris misses the game because of a suspension of some sort, that will hurt the Bears defense even more. Consider other options.
News: The Bears DST had a productive game on Sunday in a Week 8 win over the Browns. The Bears picked off two Derek Anderson passes in the game and recovered three fumbles. The Browns' aerial attack was limited to only 85 yards in the game, going a combined 7 for 20 with two interceptions. On the gorund, Jamal Lewis led a ground attack that gained 117 yards on 29 attempts. Charles Tillman took a Derek Anderson pass 21 yards the other way for a defensive score as well.
Analysis: It's not surprising to see the Bears defense have a good game against a lackluster Browns offense in Week 8. The unit will face a stiffer challenge in Week 9 against an Arizona team that likes to throw the ball around. The Bears DST is a solid No. 1 option most weeks but Week 9 could be one week to look elsewhere.
News:Tommie Harris, Adewale Ogunleye and Lance Briggs have all been listed as active for the team's Week 8 game against the Browns.
Analysis: The Bears' defense struggled in Week 7 against Cincy but should have a much better showing against an inept Browns offense in Week 8. The Bears DST is a highly recommended option for Week 8. Ogunleye and Briggs are both solid Fantasy options.
News: Bears DT Tommie Harris completed three practices this week without a problem and should start on Sunday after being given last week off by coach Lovie Smith. DE Adewale Ogunleye also appears ready to start on Sunday after being limited in practice earlier this week. Both should help the Bears defense put pressure on the Browns' offense at home in Week 8.
Analysis: The Browns' offense is woefully inept and should struggle to put points on the board this week. Definitely consider the Bears DST as a No. 1 option for Week 8 against lowly Cleveland.
News:Tommie Harris returned to practice for the Bears after coach Lovie Smith benched the three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle last week. Smith made it clear: Harris had better practice if he wants to play. And that's exactly what he was doing Wednesday as the Bears prepared for the Cleveland Browns. Harris was in uniform and stretching with his teammates during the first few minutes of practice and practiced in full after sitting out last week because of his chronic left knee problems. He did not play in Sunday's 45-10 loss at Cincinnati after being listed as doubtful, though Harris insisted afterward that had nothing to do with his injury.
Analysis: Harris greatly improves the Bears' run defense when he's in the game, so expect the going to be tough for Cleveland RB Jamal Lewis. The Bears DST should be a popular starting option in Week 8 against a poor Browns offense. Get them active as a No. 1 option in all leagues.
News: The Bears DST had a rough go of it on Sunday in a 45-10 loss to the Bengals. Carson Palmer threw for a season-high five TD passes in the game, going 20 of 24 in the air for 233 yards. Cedric Benson was tremendous against his former team on the ground, carrying the ball 37 times for 189 yards and a TD as well. The Bengals ran for a total of 215 yards in the game and the Bears failed to create a turnover in the contest.
Analysis: The Bears defense was completely embarrassed by the Bengals in Week 7, although Cincinnati is a pretty good team offensively. It was the first time the team had allowed more than three touchdowns in one game, nearly doubling the most points they have allowed in a single game. Despite this one bad game, the Bears DST is a solid option for Week 8 as the unit takes on the hapless Browns.
News: The Bears DST did a really nice job holding the Falcons to the stats that they produced in Week 6, but their allowance of three touchdowns did them in. Aside from allowing 21 points, they held stud running back Michael Turner to just 30 rush yards and QB Matt Ryan to 185 yards with two interceptions. Chicago also forced a fumble and had two interceptions but couldn't register a single sack (new DE Gaines Adams was inactive). Additionally, LB Pisa Tinoisamoa's return for a knee injury didn't last long as he was carted from the sideline to the locker room with another knee problem.
Analysis: The Bears DST will have its hands full in Week 7 against the Bengals in Cincinnati. They'll see former teammate Cedric Benson and also deal with QB Carson Palmer and WR Chad Ochocinco. They'll be good enough to start, but consider other options before finalizing your lineup with them in their next game.
News: The Buccaneers traded defensive end Gaines Adams to the Bears for a second-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft on Friday.
Analysis: Adams played in 37 career games with 29 starts, totaling 124 tackles, 13.5 sacks, two interceptions, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and 13 passes defensed. He entered the league as Tampa Bay’s first round selection in the 2007 NFL Draft. Bears defensive line coach Rod Marinelli had coveted Adams back in 2007 when he came out of Clemson and was coach of the Lions. Now Marinelli will get the chance to work with him. Consider Adams a low-end IDP option with some upside now that he's with the Bears. The Bears DST is a low-end No. 1 option for Week 6 at Atlanta.
News: The Bears DST allowed 24 points and 276 total yards Sunday against the Lions, but they still played well for Fantasy owners. Johnny Knox returned a kickoff 102 yards for a touchdown, and the Bears had five sacks, an interception a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. Knox had three kickoff returns for 147 yards, and Daniel Manning had one kickoff return for 43 yards. Earl Bennett had four punt returns for 63.2 yards, and Devin Hester had one punt return for 24 yards.
Analysis: The Bears needed a game like this after some tough outings and injuries to star LB Brian Urlacher. The Bears are off in Week 5 but should be considered a low-end No. 1 option in Week 6 at Atlanta.
News: The Bears will likely be without injured linebackers Hunter Hillenmeyer and Pisa Tinoisamoa when they host the Lions on Sunday. Both were listed as doubtful on Friday, with Tinoisamoa hobbled by a knee injury he suffered in the season opener at Green Bay and Hillenmeyer recovering from a rib injury in last week's win over Seattle. On the plus side, Pro Bowl linebacker Lance Briggs (foot) is expected to play even though he was listed as questionable. Defensive end Alex Brown (ankle) and defensive tackle Israel Idonije (knee) were also listed as questionable.
Analysis: The Bears DST should still be able to handle the Lions' offense without their linebackers at full strength. Continue to view them as a usable No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 4.
News: After falling behind 13-0 in the second quarter Week 3 against the Seahawks, the Bears defense came to play and held Seattle to just six points the rest of the way in a 25-19 win. Facing QB Seneca Wallace, who was replacing the injured Matt Hasselbeck (rib), Chicago allowed 346 yards. The Bears got three sacks, one interception and one fumble. Seattle got just one touchdown on a 39-yard catch-and-run from Julius Jones in the first quarter.
Analysis: While Chicago did get the comeback win against Seattle, they lost another middle linebacker in Hunter Hillenmeyer, who left with a rib injury. Chicago is already down Brian Urlacher (wrist) for the season. As long as Chicago can stay healthy, they have the potential to be a top defensive unit. Consider the Bears DST a No. 1 Fantasy option heading into Week 4 against the Lions.
News: The Bears defense played well without Brian Urlacher against the Steelers in Week 2, allowing 14 points on 308 yards with two sacks, one interception and one fumble recovery. Urlacher is out for the season.
Analysis: The Bears DST will feel the loss of Urlacher whether it showed or not in Week 2, but at least now you know it can still be an effective unit in Fantasy. Continue to use it in Week 3, when the Bears travel to Seattle to face an inconsistent Seahawks offense.
News: Finally healthy after two years of neck and back problems, Brian Urlacher underwent surgery Monday to repair a dislocated right wrist injured in Week 1 at Green Bay and will not be back this season - a major blow for a team with high expectations. The Bears will move Hunter Hillenmeyer inside and keep Lance Briggs on the outside. They might consider adding Derrick Brooks, who is a free agent and is familiar with the Bears' defensive scheme and coaches. LB Pisa Tinoisamoa is also recovering from a sprained knee.
Analysis: The Bears DST will miss the presence of Urlacher for his playmaking -- he'll definitely hamper their run defense. Tinoisamoa also will have a negative effect. This injury makes the unit weaker for the course of the year, especially if they start moving players around. Consider them a No. 2 option when they play vs. the Steelers in Week 2.
News: The Chicago Tribune reports Bears LB Brian Urlacher appears to be out for the season after dislocating his right wrist. The team has not given the official word, but Urlacher said via text message that the outlook is bleak. Urlacher injured his wrist in the first quarter of Sunday's 21-15 loss to the Packers. When asked about his status Monday, Urlacher said in a text message that his "season is over." He was scheduled to undergo surgery Monday morning upon the team's arrival back in Chicago from Green Bay. A dislocated bone had to be surgerically put back in. The surgery might have revealed more extensive damage.
Analysis: Hopefully the report is inaccurate and Urlacher can return this year, but it doesn't sound good. The Bears might have to consider moving Lance Briggs over to middle linebacker to fill Urlacher's void. Starter Pisa Tinoisamoa also might be sidelined for a bit after spraining the posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. Nick Roach stepped in for Tinoisamoa. When healthy, Urlacher is a No. 2 LB in IDP leagues, but the Bears DST will miss his presence as much as his playmaking, and this makes the unit weaker for the course of the year, especially if they start moving players around.
News: The Chicago Tribune reports Bears LB Brian Urlacher is expected to undergo surgery Monday after dislocating his right wrist in Sunday's 21-15 loss to the Packers. Urlacher injured his wrist in the first quarter, although it is unclear exactly how he suffered the injury. He had an X-ray at halftime and no MRI was needed. A surgery related to a dislocation could have something to do with bone being put back into place. The extent of Urlacher's injury wasn't evident following the game. The Bears are hopeful it will not sideline Urlacher long.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Urlacher's progress and hope he's not out long. He will likely be out for Week 2 vs. Pittsburgh, but we should know more after he has the procedure. When healthy, Urlacher is a solid No. 2 LB in IDP leagues, and he's a huge asset to the Bears DST.
News: Chicago did not fare well during Week 1 on Sunday night against the Packers in Green Bay. The Bears DST kept the yardage down as Green Bay managed just 226 total yards in the game but Chicago lost 21-15 and that is what matters most. The Bears DST did not force a single turnover in the game but did manage four sacks of Aaron Rodgers. There were a few injuries to the Bears defense as Brian Urlacher hurt his wrist and was the most important.
Analysis: The Bears also suffered injuries to LB Pisa Tinoisamoa and DB Trumaine McBride. The defense looked sharp in limiting the yards of the Packers solid offense but wilted late, especially on a 50-yard TD pass from Rodgers to Greg Jennings in the 4th quarter to squash any chance of a comeback. Still, you have to view the Bears DST as a No. 2 Fantasy option Week 2 at home against Pittsburgh.
News: Cornerback Charles Tillman practiced for the first time after undergoing back surgery and hopes to be ready for the Chicago Bears' season opener at Green Bay. Whether he actually will play Sunday is a tossup as Tillman said Monday it's a "flip of the coin," while coach Lovie Smith said it's too soon to say. Having Tillman back in practice was an important step and a big boost for a team counting on him after missing the playoffs the past two years.
Analysis: Tillman had a strong year, finishing with 91 tackles and three interceptions while leading the team with four forced fumbles despite shoulder and back problems. He helps make the Bears DST a top-end No. 2 unit, which is the case because Devin Hester is no longer returning kicks to boost its value. Tillman is also a solid low-end No. 1 Fantasy DB for use in IDP leagues when healthy.
News:Devin Hester is ready to start fielding punts again. Bears coach Lovie Smith Thursday said plans are for Hester to play at returner in Sunday's Bears game at Denver for the first time this preseason. "I think it's important for us to see," Smith said. "This week we're playing the game like the regular season is here. You'll see most of our guys in a role that they will play during the course of the season. "I don't think that there's a reason why we would let Devin do a lot of that before now, but things change about this third game of the preseason." Hester hadn't even fielded many punts prior to this week's practices, and wants to do it Sunday to get off the rust. "I feel like I need to get back into the groove, but at the same time it's up to the coaches -- it's not up to me," he said. "All I can do is go by what the coaches say."
Analysis: Hester's big challenge until now has been learning new starting quarterback Jay Cutler so the two can become a viable passing combination. They hooked up for two connections in the first preseason game, but failed to connect four times. Last week against the New York Giants, Hester failed to go deep enough to catch up to a 60-yard heave by Cutler. "The thing is, he has a great arm and he proved it that night, on the move and throwing it, what, 60 yards on the move?" Hester said. "That's pretty tough for a quarterback. You don't really see a quarterback who can get it out that far away." Because he knows Cutler's arm strength now, Hester said he has one simple adjustment to make. "To just keep running as fast as I can, no matter what," Hester said. "If he gets flushed out of the pocket don't come back, don't do any scrambling drills, just keep going." A lot of the focus this preseason has been Hester a Fantasy sleeper at the wide receiver position. However, he also plays a big part for the Bears DST since he is a threat on punt returns. Still, the Bears DST is more of a No. 2 Fantasy option Draft Day because of their shortcomings on defense they still need to overcome.
News: Following practice Thursday, Bears WR Devin Hester said he'll focus solely on punt returns this year. "None at all," he said, when asked if he might occasionally return kickoffs if the team trailed and was desperate for a big return. Danieal Manning has all the kickoff return duties.
Analysis: This is good for Hester as a WR, and we still consider him a solid No. 3 option worth a mid-round pick coming into the year. As for the Bears DST, at least you're getting Hester for some part of special teams, and Manning did OK on kickoff returns. Continue to draft the Bears as a low-end No. 1 option with a late-round pick.
News: The depth the Chicago Bears built in the secondary over the past two seasons is being put to the test in training camp. Backup Zack Bowman's pulled hamstring and starter Charles Tillman's recovery from back surgery have the Bears down to Trumaine McBride at left cornerback. McBride is normally a right cornerback. Chicago is also moving Corey Graham to cornerback after he spent the offseason working to be a safety. The Bears already are young at safety with Kevin Payne and Danieal Manning, which only compounds coverage problems in the secondary. Manning has now moved positions three times in his three-year career. "We've got to be able to handle it now because it could happen in the regular season, you just don't know," Manning said Thursday. Coaches hope Tillman is back for the regular season. Bowman is listed day to day, but sometimes hamstring pulls linger. "I don't think it was a real bad pull or anything like that," coach Lovie Smith said. "He should be back in time."
Analysis: This instability comes with Manning starting at free safety after starting there only one game last year when the team still had oft-injured veteran Mike Brown. "Injuries are unfortunate, but we have Trumaine McBride there (at cornerback) who has stepped in and played a number of games in a starting role," veteran right cornerback Nate Vasher said. "We feel we won't miss a beat. We have so many really good players it gives us that kind of depth in the secondary." McBride actually tied for the team lead in pass break-ups while starting nine games at right cornerback in 2007 as a replacement for Vasher, who suffered a groin injury. Now he's on the other side of the field. Manning went from free safety in Chicago's Super Bowl season of 2006 to nickel back last year, and even started at cornerback two games in 2007. Now he's starting at free safety -- though he moves to nickel in passing situations and second-year player Craig Steltz comes on to play free safety. It seems the Bears secondary is a big mess right now, but that's why they have training camp. We consider the Bears DST a No. 2 Fantasy option since there are some concerns with the secondary.
News: The Chicago Tribune reports that Bears CB Charles Tillman had back surgery recently to clean up a disc in his back, sidelining him anywhere from four-to-eight weeks. The Bears hope Tillman can return in time for the start of the regular season. Tillman also underwent shoulder surgery earlier this offseason, forcing him out of many OTAs.
Analysis: The Bears are fairly deep at cornerback with Nathan Vasher, Corey Graham, Danieal Manning and Zack Bowman on the roster. Still, the team will need Tillman, their best corner, if they're going to compete with the suddenly improved passing games in the NFC North. This is another strike against the Bears DST, whose defense is decent while their special-teams game has fallen off a cliff. We consider them a No. 2 option worth drafting as a backup DST this season.
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports Bears WR Devin Hester will be relied upon to produce big plays. New QB Jay Cutler definitely can throw the deep ball. The plan is to use Hester as a receiver and punt returner, but not on kickoffs. Don't be surprised if Hester's punt returns go down, too. Offensive coordinator Ron Turner calls Hester "an every-down receiver," and receivers coach Darryl Drake said that while Hester has only caught passes from Cutler, he has lined up on some running plays with backup quarterbacks because the team wants to make sure he's familiar with every play.
Analysis: We still like the Bears DST as a low-end No. 1 option even with Hester not playing on returns, but it would be nice if he were still there all the time. Still, the Bears DST is worth drafting in all formats, and look for rookie Johnny Knox to get more time replacing Hester on returns.
News: Chicago Bears cornerback Charles Tillman is back and defensive tackle Tommie Harris says he won't be far behind. Tillman practiced Wednesday for the first time in organized team activities following January surgery to repair a shoulder injury he suffered Sept. 28 against the Philadelphia Eagles. Harris hadn't been on the practice field at all during OTAs, but made an appearance during the individual skills portion of practice. He missed two games last year due to a knee injury and has been plagued by hamstring and knee problems much of the last three seasons, but says he's feeling as good as he's felt in a long time. Additionally, the Bears signed their top pick, third-round DT Jarron Gilbert, to a four-year contract.
Analysis: The Bears defense appears to be healthy for the start of training camp, and the additions of rookies like Gilbert and DE Henry Melton along with free agents LB Pisa Tinoisamoa and FS Josh Bullocks. They should be more aggressive this year, but that doesn't necessarily translate into being better. Furthermore, the special teams associated with the Bears took a big nosedive last year, and save for either Devin Hester returning to his glory days or rookie WR Johnny Knox (4.3 speed at the NFL Combine) boosting the return game, that area of the Bears won't hold up its end of the bargain. We view this DST as a No. 2 option worth a pick only in the deepest of drafts this summer.
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that the Bears have signed LB Pisa Tinoisamoa to a one-year deal. Tinoisamoa will battle Hunter Hillenmeyer for the starting strongside linebacker job. Additionally, the team extended DL Israel Idonije for two more seasons.
Analysis: Both players definitely add quality depth to the Bears defense, which will be under the coordination of head coach Lovie Smith in 2009. Still, the club's pass rush has evaporated over the last two years and their safety play needs a boost. With the special teams taking a huge step backward last season and the defense improved but still somewhat suspect, this unit is no better than a top-end No. 2 option worth only a late-round pick in the deepest of drafts this summer.
News: The Chicago Tribune reports Bears coach Lovie Smith has no plans to give WR Devin Hester a break from punt-return duties even though Chicago wants Hester to develop into the No. 1 WR on the team. "No way," Smith said. "Devin has the chance to score every time. If one of those [rookies] is a better returner than Devin, then we will put them back there. Devin can be a full-time receiver and handle one other return." Don't count out Juaquin Iglesias, Johnny Knox and D.J. Moore contributing on special teams. All three saw action in the return game during rookie mini-camp, which concluded Sunday. "D.J. Moore is probably the most polished [punt returner] right now," special teams coordinator Dave Toub said. "Johnny Knox's got potential. Obviously, the speed is there. He just has to catch more punts. It takes a lot of work. And then Juaquin, he's really a kick returner. He's really a good kick returner, when you go back and watch his college tape."
Analysis: Hester will continue to develop as a WR and is worth drafting as a No. 3 Fantasy option, especially with the addition of QB Jay Cutler this offseason. If Hester remains the primary punt return man, that would enhance the value for the Bears DST.
News: Bears coach Lovie Smith will take over defensive play-calling responsibilities from defensive coordinator Bob Babich next season as part of a shakeup of the team's coaching staff. Babich, who came under heavy criticism last year, will retain the defensive coordinator title but will take on the responsibilities of coaching linebackers. He coached Bears linebackers for the Bears under former coordinator Ron Rivera from 2004-2006. Smith, who built his reputation as defensive coordinator of the Rams from 2001-2003, said he doesn't think he's taxing himself by calling defensive signals in a game while also serving as head coach. "I'm a big boy, and after five years in this role, I think you find out exactly how much time you have and where you have time to do a few more things," he said. "It's not unprecedented for head coaches to call defensive signals, but rare. There are a lot of offensive coaches in the league that call plays, that do a little bit more on their side of the ball where their expertise is. For some reason, a lot of defensive coaches haven't done it. But I think it's time to change some of that."
Analysis: This is good news for the Bears defense, but there remains a couple of personnel issues that need to be resolved. Most notably, the club's pass rush has evaporated over the last two years, and their safety play needs a boost. The club might be in a position to sign a player or two via free agency and draft another, and that would help. But with the special teams taking a huge step backward last season and the defense suspect, this unit is no better than a top-end No. 2 option worth only a late-round pick in the deepest of drafts this summer.
News: In the Bears' 31-24 loss at the Texans in Week 17, the DST didn't have an interception or a sack. They finished with one forced fumble in the game.
Analysis: The Bears DST is overdue for a makeover and should get it this offseason. With much up in the air as it pertains to this defense, Fantasy owners should get used to the idea of them not being a No. 1 option next year. They'll likely start 2009 as a No. 2 unit not worth drafting in standard drafts.
News: The Bears may have won in Week 16 against the Packers, but the defense added little to help statistically. Aside from one interception, one special-teams fumble recovery and a blocked field goal, the Bears DST didn't contribute any stats. They did hold the Packers to 17 points, though.
Analysis: The Bears DST will likely limp out of 2008 as they play at Houston in Week 17. The Texans boast a heck of a trio in Matt Schaub, Andre Johnson and Steve Slaton, and all three should produce some numbers against the Bears. While they might get a couple of turnovers, consider the Bears DST no better than a top-end No. 2 option in Week 17.
News: The Bears will entertain their arch rivals to the north, the Packers, in Week 16 action. While Green Bay's defense has struggled, their offense has not. QB Aaron Rodgers has 11 touchdowns in his last five games with at least 225 yards in all five. Running back Ryan Grant hasn't been as effective in those five games, but he has been great against the Bears, reeling off 145 yards and a touchdown against them earlier this year and 100 yards and a score in Week 16 at Chicago last year.
Analysis: This isn't a great week to expect a big game from the Bears DST. True, they'll get an interception or two and have a chance at a touchdown on special teams, but they'll give up a healthy amount of yards and points to the Packers. Treat the Bears DST as a No. 2 option in Week 16.
News: The Bears DST had a kickoff return courtesy of Danieal Manning and two interceptions in a 27-24 overtime win over the Saints on Thursday in Week 15. The unit allowed Drew Brees to throw for 232 yards and the ground attack gained 119 yards. Both Mike Brown and Adewale Ogunleye had an interception.
Analysis: The Bears DST is a top unit, but they are going against a team that torched them in Week 11 next week. In Week 16, the Bears will take on the Packers, a team that put up 37 points against them. They're still a No. 1 unit for the week and you'd have to think they won't give up 37 points again.
News: The Bears DST had two sacks and an interception Sunday against Jacksonville. Adewale Ogulneye, Mark Anderson and Israel Idonije combined for the sacks, and Danieal Manning had the interception. Devin Hester had three punt returns for 21.6 yards, and Manning had three kickoff returns for 81 yards.
Analysis: The Bears DST remains a top unit this year and is worth starting in Week 15 against New Orleans on Thursday night.
News: The Bears DST had two sacks and one interception Sunday at Minnesota. Alex Brown and Tommie Harris had the sacks, and Kevin Payne had the interception. Danieal Manning led the Bears with five kickoff returns for 138 yards, and Earl Bennett had one punt return for 17 yards.
Analysis: The Bears DST should bounce back in Week 14 against Jacksonville. Consider the unit a No. 1 option.
News: Chicago defeated the lowly Rams 27-3 on Sunday of Week 12 as the Bears DST limited St. Louis to just 207 total yards. After Marc Bulger went down with injury, backup Trent Green was forced into throwing four interceptions as Lance Briggs had two, Brian Urlacher had one and Charles Tillman chipped in with one. Bulger was sacked when he left the game and the Bears had five total sacks. Tommie Harris had two, Adawale Ogunleye had two and Alex Brown one. The Bears had a number of injuries, losing safety Mike Brown (leg) in the first half, and cornerback Nathan Vasher (thumb) in the third quarter. Smith said he didn't know the extent of any of the injuries.
Analysis: The Bears had been miserable in their last few games against lowly teams like the Lions and poor offensive Tennessee Titans but were absolutely fantastic against the Rams. They play the Vikings in Minnesota in Week 13 and we expect them to be good once again and worth starting in most Fantasy formats.
News: The Bears DST gave up 37 points and 427 yards in a Week 11 loss to the Packers and only made one interception.
Analysis: The Bears have had a couple of big weeks this season, but they've been miserable lately in games against the Titans and the Lions. If they can't get things going in Week 12 at horrible St. Louis, then you should probably look elsewhere. Give them a shot as a low-end No. 1 option with that sexy matchup.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that Chicago coach Lovie Smith says the Bears' maligned defense will not change the way it does business, even though it's beginning to sound as if some players are questioning the wisdom of a plan that has contributed to a No. 30 ranking in passing yards allowed. "No players are questioning our scheme, and we're not going to change up the scheme," Smith said. "They're a football player; that's what we're going to play. They know that. They all have confidence in the scheme. You're disappointed when you don't play well, but none of our players are questioning our scheme." Smith said the players need to perform better. "I've heard a lot about switching up schemes and different things like that," Smith said. "Our scheme is good. We have to execute better, it's as simple as that. We've had success with this defense, and we're not going to change up. But we tweak our defense each week, and it's not like we play the same call each play. We do it all, but you still have to execute."
Analysis: The combination of soft coverage and a feeble pass rush has dropped the Bears' defense to 17th in total yards allowed per game and tied for 15th in points allowed, even though they're No. 4 in run defense, allowing just 74.9 yards per game. The Bears DST has now been disappointing against the lowly Lions and the offensively grounded Titans in back-to-back weeks. Chicago has had just two sacks in the past two games and four turnovers forced. The Bears play a much better offense in Week 10 at Green Bay and after these two mediocre performances, you might consider going with another option.
News: Chicago could not defeat undefeated Tennessee in Week 10 as they fell 21-14. The Bears DST limited Tennessee's less-than-potent offense to 304 yards on the afternoon as Kerry Collins had one of his best games under center. The Bears forced just one turnover in the game on a forced fumble and managed just one sack. The sack was picked up by Adewale Ogunleye.
Analysis: The Bears DST has now been disappointing against the lowly Lions and the offensively grounded Titans in back-to-back weeks. Chicago has had just two sacks in the past two games and four turnovers forced. The Bears play a much better offense in Week 10 at Green Bay and after these two mediocre performances, you might consider going with another option.
News: The Bears gave up 23 points on 333 yards to the visiting Lions in Week 9. They recorded two interceptions and recovered a fumble, but they had only one sack.
Analysis: You had to figure the Bears DST would feast on the lowly Lions, so this performance is a bit of a disappointment. Still, the Bears didn't exactly embarrass themselves. Facing the undefeated Titans in Week 10, the Bears DST remains a serviceable Fantasy unit since the Titans don't normally blow their opponents away.
News: The Bears DST unit is not only coming off their best game of the season in a two-TD effort in Week 7, but they're also coming off of a bye week. Now they'll host the Lions in Week 9, a team that has gone in the tank offensively, topping 21 points just once since Week 2.
Analysis: Look for the Bears to limit RBs Rudi Johnson and Kevin Smith while getting to QB Dan Orlovsky. The only concern is wrapping up WR Calvin Johnson, who has done pretty well over his last two games despite the talent around him. Consider the Bears DST a No. 1 option in Week 9.
News: Chicago was able to hold on in a wild one against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 7, 48-41. You would think these two teams were solid defensive clubs, but the the Bears DST allowed 439 yards to the Vikings. That said, the Bears also forced five Minnesota turnovers and sacked QB Gus Frerotte twice. To top it all off, Chicago scored two defensive touchdowns and nearly missed a third. Zach Bowman recovered a blocked punt in the end zone for a touchdown in the 2nd quarter and RB Garrett Wolfe ran back another botched punt for a touchdown in the 1st quarter. Bears interceptions came from Bowman, Trumaine McBride, Kevin Payne and Corey Graham. Payne also picked up a sack.
Analysis: Allowing 439 yards and 41 points, bad. Scoring two defensive touchdowns and forcing five turnovers, very, very good. The Bears may have allowed too many points, but they remains a high-end No. 1 Fantasy DST. Of course, they are not a good start in Week 8 because the Bears have a bye.
News: Expected to thoroughly baffle rookie QB Matt Ryan and the Falcons in Week 6, the Bears DST were the ones baffled. Aside from a forced fumble and recovery that was fumbled back to Atlanta on the same play, the Bears DST posted no other stats, giving up just over 300 yards passing and 22 points to the Falcons.
Analysis: This is a stunningly bad display by the Bears, who only did a nice job in slowing the Falcons' vaunted run game down. They'll have their hands full in Week 7 vs. the Vikings, featuring Adrian Peterson, who torched Chicago in two games last season. You might want to consider other options for Week 7 before settling on the Bears, particularly since Devin Hester has delivered exactly zero touchdowns on returns this season.
News: The Bears DST continued to play well in Week 5 at the Lions, scoring on a Dan Orlovsky interception and adding four sacks and a forced fumble. All the while, the Bears held the Lions to 7 points and were strong vs. the run and the pass.
Analysis: Another suffocating performance from the Bears DST in Week 5 -- and without the help of KR Devin Hester, who fumbled a punt return and is making more moves on offense than special teams. Figure the Bears DST to continue playing well when they face the Falcons in Atlanta in Week 6.
News: The Bears had a notable defensive performance against the Eagles in Week 4, limiting one of the league's better offenses to 20 points on 340 yards. They recorded three sacks and one interception and also recovered a fumble.
Analysis: The Bears DST has had an up-and-down performance so far in 2008, but it still looks like one of the best 12 units in the league. It has a great matchup Week 5 at Detroit, so keep it active.
News: Thinking about starting the Bears DST in Week 4 vs. Philadelphia? Be careful -- not only is KR Devin Hester questionable and considered a game-time decision, but Tommie Harris is also questionable after missing practice all week with a knee injury.
Analysis: The Eagles are a pretty strong offense and could pose problems for the Bears. Figure this DST to be worth a low-end look. Consider other options before starting them in Week 4.
News: Bears WR/KR Devin Hester (ribs) did not practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 4 vs. Philadelphia. Hester was held out Week 3 against the Bucs, but the Bears are hopeful that the All-Pro return specialist will be able to practice later this week and play Sunday. "He's getting better," head coach Lovie Smith told NFL.com. "It's hard to tell exactly when he'll be ready to go. But just looking at the history a little bit of guys who've had that injury, normally before long he'll be back out on the football field. We're encouraged."
Analysis: Hester isn't a big part of the Bears' offense so far this season, but he's a key part of the Bears DST. "I know he wants to play in the worst way," Smit said. "He's doing everything he can to get back out on the football field. Hopefully it'll be soon." With or without Hester, the Bears DST is still a viable Fantasy option Week 4.
News: The Bears DST didn't sack Brian Griese once, but they did pick him off three times and force a fumble (not by Griese) against the Buccaneers in Week 3. The Bears were great against Tampa's run game but allowed over 400 passing yards.
Analysis: The Bears played the game without Devin Hester returning kickoffs, something that may continue in Week 4. Worse yet, the high-octane Eagles are coming to Chicago in Week 4. The Bears DST is only worth a look if the Eagles enter the game without RB Brian Westbrook, who got hurt in Week 3. They're a low-end No. 1 DST at best.
News: Bears WR/KR Devin Hester will not be active for the club's Week 3 game vs. the Buccaneers. Hester suffered torn rib cartilage last week.
Analysis: Hester isn't a big part of the Bears' offense so far this season, but he's a key part of the Bears DST. Hester should remain benched or off Fantasy rosters, but the Bears defense has been good enough thus far and should produce a good effort against the Bucs in Week 3.
News: After not practicing all week, Bears WR/KR Devin Hester is questionable for Week 3 vs. Tampa Bay. Hester said he has "a little torn cartilage" in his rib area and is starting to feel better, but the Bears Pro Bowl returner didn't want to speculate about his status on Wednesday.
Analysis: Obviously, the main draw of the Bears DST is Hester's return ability. Without him, they're just another decent defense. Still, they have a favorable matchup at home against the Bucs, so start them whether or not Hester is playing.
News:Devin Hester says he has "a little torn cartilage" in his rib area and is starting to feel better, but the Bears Pro Bowl returner didn't want to speculate about his status for Sunday, reports the Chicago Tribune. "I'm feeling a lot better so I'm hoping by the end of the week I'll have no pain or nothing like that," Hester said Thursday. Hester said he suffered the injury making a quick move to avoid a tackle. He couldn't breathe normally for two days. "I was told that if you go out there and it's not healed all the way, then you could damage it even more. I'm just going to get as much treatment as I can, and hopefully I'll be ready."
Analysis: Keep an eye on Hester's status prior to Sunday to see if he can get on the field. Hester has minimal Fantasy value as a receiver, but he is a valuable return man. Without Hester, the Bears DST would suffer.
News:Devin Hester walked off the far end of the field and dodged the rush, the way he often does on kick returns. It was a nifty misdirection. This time he avoided the media, but the bigger issue is whether the Chicago Bears' elusive return specialist will be able to perform similar moves against Tampa Bay on Sunday. Hester did not practice Wednesday after undergoing an MRI the previous day for a left rib injury and his status for the home opener remains in question. Asked about the test results, coach Lovie Smith said, "I definitely don't go over anything like that." He also said he wasn't sure if Hester would practice this week or play Sunday.
Analysis: Hester was taken from the sideline on a cart during the third quarter of the 20-17 loss at Carolina. The Bears were leading 17-6 when Hester left the game after returning a kickoff following a 45-yard field goal by Carolina's John Kasay, but it was not clear exactly how -- or when -- the injury occurred. Smith said Hester does not have to practice this week to go Sunday. "We've seen Hester enough," Smith said. "If he's ready to go Sunday, he'll play. You would like all the players to practice each day, but sometimes it doesn't work out that way. It's not like he has to practice Friday to be ready to play. "Hester's injury is more important to Bears DST owners than Hester's individual owners since he still plays a bigger part on special teams as opposed to offense. Even without Hester, the Bears DST is a viable Fantasy option Week 3.
News:Devin Hester clutched his side and left the field on a cart. So if the Chicago Bears are feeling a bit antsy, they have good reason. Blowing a 14-point lead in a 20-17 loss Sunday at Carolina stung, but losing their record-setting return specialist could be more painful. One day after Hester suffered a rib injury, coach Lovie Smith had little to say about his special teams star. He said he wasn't sure when, exactly, it occurred, and offered no timetable for Hester's return. "As far as how long he's going to be out, I'm not going to get into that," said Smith, who did not rule out Hester playing against Tampa Bay this week.
Analysis: Smith said Hester was hit "quite a few times in the ribs" and wouldn't pin the injury on one play. Hester left the game after a return following a 45-yard field goal by John Kasay in the third quarter that cut the Bears' lead to 17-6. He caught the kickoff a yard into the end zone and turned left at about the 15 before getting pushed out of bounds at the 23. He was still in motion on the Carolina sideline when a Panthers player, presumably trying to slow him down, extended his right arm. Hester was seen about a second later clutching the left side of his rib cage. He walked gingerly toward the Chicago sideline and was carted from the field. Hester's injury is more important to Bears DST owners than Hester's individual owners since he still plays a bigger part on special teams as opposed to offense. Even without Hester, the Bears DST is a viable Fantasy option Week 3.
News: Thanks to a blocked punt returned for a touchdown, the Bears DST was good for a second score this season, this time at Carolina in Week 2. The unit added three sacks and an interception in their loss to the Panthers.
Analysis: Even though the Bears lost, their DST remained a quality option. Continue to start them vs. the Buccaneers (and ex-Bears QB Brian Griese) in Week 3.
News: Bears WR Devin Hester (foot) went through limited practice reps Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 2 at Carolina. Hester played in the opener against Indianapolis and had just one catch for seven yards.
Analysis: The Bears haven't said much on Hester's injury, but this news really just affects the Bears DST. Chicago is trying to get Hester more involved in the offense, but until he has a breakout game, he is nothing more than a reserve Fantasy WR. Even if Hester is unable to play Sunday, the Bears DST is still a solid Fantasy play.
News: The Bears defense allowed only 13 points on 293 yards to the hosting Colts in Week 1, recording two sacks and recovering a fumble. It also had a defensive touchdown on a recovered fumble by Lance Briggs.
Analysis: The Bears DST's stock has fallen in Fantasy -- or at least it did before Sunday night's game. Shutting down a typically potent Colts offense should earn it brownie points in Fantasy, so consider getting it active for Week 2 at Carolina. It certainly has a few play makers.
News: Bears DT Tommie Harris (knee), DE Mark Anderson (thumb), safety Mike Brown (knee), DT Dusty Dvoracek (calf) and DB Brandon McGowan (knee) were all listed on the injury report Wednesday. McGowan, Dvoracek and Brown went through a full practice and are probable. Harris and Anderson were limited and are questionable.
Analysis: Harris has the most value in IDP leagues as a No. 3 DL. The rest of these defensive players are not worth using. Hopefully for Fantasy owners, Harris will play, but continue to monitor his status.
News: Bears return man Devin Hester would like to open the season in the Colts new stadium with a kick return for a touchdown Sunday in Week 1. "Yeah, I've thought about it," said Hester in the Indianapolis Star. "You know, it would be a great feeling and a great honor opening up the season with an opening kickoff return in a new stadium against the Colts." In his first two seasons, Hester has 11 kick-return scores, just two shy of the NFL record Brian Mitchell set in 14 seasons. And Hester's 11 don't include his postseason touchdown against the Colts in the Super Bowl, or a 108-yard score off a missed field goal at Giants Stadium in 2006. Whether the Colts give him another chance is another matter. Asked if the Colts would kick to Hester this time, Dungy smiled and turned jokester. "I will do the same thing," he said, prompting reporters to laugh. "We're going to kick it to him, show him and teach him a lesson."
Analysis: Hester is the best reason to like the Bears DST any week. Consider them a No. 1 option vs. the Colts and hope Hester continues to shine.
News: In their third preseason game vs. San Francisco, the Bears defense wound up getting trampled by the 49ers' offense, led by QB J.T. O'Sullivan. Chicago limited the Niners' first two drives to field goals but were otherwise walked on. From there, they fell apart, allowing 31 points over the course of the game and accumulating one sack and zero takeaways. On the plus side, the kick-return game was solid thanks to Danieal Manning, not Devin Hester. Manning returned two kickoffs for over 60 yards.
Analysis: The Bears defense has not looked that appealing this preseason, getting beat up by the likes of Brodie Croyle, Charlie Frye and J.T. O'Sullivan. That's not good. Many Fantasy owners draft the Bears DST for its special teams play, but with Hester moving to offense there's concern that the unit won't total as many touchdowns. Manning is a good return man for Chicago but isn't the stud that Hester is. Still consider this unit to be a No. 1 option, but expect them to last toward the end of drafts.
News: WR/KR Devin Hester was at Bears training camp Friday, although there was no word if signed a contract. He is expected to practice, according to the Chicago Tribune. Hester skipped the first practices this week as a holdout. He has two years remaining on his initial deal.
Analysis: Hester spent the entire offseason working with the club on his receiving skills in hopes of reaching his potential of being a big-play wide receiver for the Bears. Additionally, he's the best special-teams return man in the NFL today and adds to the Bears' potential of scoring each week. The Bears' defense took a huge step back in 2007, but their special teams, led by Hester, kept running strong, and that's why the Bears DST is still a top-10 unit. Think late-round pick (Round 10 or so) with the Bears DST.
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Bears WR/KR Devin Hester did not show up for the first workout of training camp. He also missed initial check-ins and meetings prior to the first workout. Hester has two years left on the deal he signed as a rookie, and his agent had been working on an extension with the club, but with the team restructuring LB Brian Urlacher's contract recently, Hester opted to protest by not coming to camp.
Analysis: Hester spent the entire offseason working with the club on his receiving skills in hopes of reaching his potential of being a big-play wide receiver for the Bears. Additionally, he's the best special-teams return man in the NFL today and adds to the Bears' potential of scoring each week. The Bears' defense took a huge step back in 2007, but their special teams, led by Devin Hester, kept running strong, and that's why the Bears DST is still a top-10 unit. That obviously changes if Hester continues his holdout. Think late-round pick with the Bears DST for now.
News: The Chicago Bears and LB Brian Urlacher agreed to a contract extension Monday through the 2012 season, according to published reports. The Chicago Tribune and Chicago Sun-Times reported that the extension is worth $18 million, including a $6 million signing bonus. The Bears declined to confirm the deal. Players were scheduled to report to training camp at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais on Tuesday. Urlacher, entering his ninth season, signed a nine-year, $57 million contract in 2003 that would have expired after 2011. Last season, Urlacher played with an arthritic back condition and also had minor offseason neck surgery. Urlacher, 30, has been selected for the Pro Bowl six times and has 15 career interceptions and 37.5 sacks.
Analysis: It appears Urlacher will be paid, which should help him focus on the 2008 season. It's safe to consider Urlacher a No. 1 LB in IDP leagues and hope for continued production. He's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues this year.
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports Bears LB Brian Urlacher reportedly is participating in Wednesday's voluntary OTA, which is leading some to wonder if a new contract is on the horizon. Urlacher wants his contract restructured, and he has avoided voluntary workouts in protest. Urlacher did show up to the mandatory minicamp, and now that he is participating in the voluntary workouts — as reported by both local sports radio stations — it could mean a new deal is within reach.
Analysis: This is a good sign if Urlacher is in camp. Hopefully this dispute will get settled and Urlacher will be healthy. He has the chance to remain a No. 1 LB in IDP leagues in 2008.
News: The Bears released veteran strong safety Adam Archuleta on Tuesday, ending a brief and disappointing tenure with the team. Archuleta, 30, broke a hand early last season and started in just 10 of the 15 games in which he appeared. He lost his starting job to Brandon McGowan and finished the season on special teams. The Bears drafted LSU safety Craig Steltz in the fourth round of last month.
Analysis: The Bears' defense took a huge step back in 2007, but their special teams, led by Devin Hester, kept running strong. They ranked 27th against the pass and 24th against the run, allowing 36 run/pass TDs). Chicago totaled 41 sacks, 33 fumbles recovered and 16 interceptions with one defensive touchdown (Urlacher on an INT return in Week 16). However, Hester scored seven times on kick/punt returns to help pace the unit. Despite their sporadic play, the Bears DST was still a top-10 unit (thank you, Mr. Hester) last year and remains a middle-end No. 1 DST for 2008. Think late-round pick with them this summer, and be grateful that Archuleta is gone.
News: After the Chicago Sun-Times reported that a league source said representatives for Bears LB Brian Urlacher asked the club for permission to seek a trade, and another source reported that Urlacher was considering retirement because of pain from neck and back injuries, Urlacher told the Chicago Tribune that the other paper's story is way off base. "I never said that I was going to quit," Urlacher told the Tribune. "That's just a gossip column. Reports like that is why I choose not to speak to the media." Urlacher said that the Bears offered to extend him one more year and he's thinking about it. He added that he will not miss training camp and doesn't want to leave Chicago via trade.
Analysis: Urlacher is too important to the Bears on and off the field for the club to part ways with him. He's a quality defender who helps clamp down on the run. The Bears' defense took a huge step back in 2007, but their special teams, led by Devin Hester, kept running strong. They ranked 27th against the pass and 24th against the run, allowing 36 run/pass TDs). Chicago totaled 41 sacks, 33 fumbles recovered and 16 interceptions with one defensive touchdown (Urlacher on an INT return in Week 16). However, Hester scored seven times on kick/punt returns to help pace the unit. Despite their sporadic play, the Bears DST was still a top-10 unit (thank you, Mr. Hester) last year and remains a middle-end No. 1 DST for 2008. Think late-round pick with them this summer.
News:Brian Urlacher told the Chicago Tribune that he is planning to skip the first day of the Bears' upcoming voluntary workouts because of a contract dispute. Urlacher and the club have tried to hammer out an extension, but nothing has been done.
Analysis: The Bears' defense took a huge step back in 2007, but their special teams, led by Devin Hester, kept running strong. They ranked 27th against the pass and 24th against the run, allowing 36 run/pass TDs). Chicago totaled 41 sacks, 33 fumbles recovered and 16 interceptions with one defensive touchdown (Urlacher on an INT return in Week 16). However, Hester scored seven times on kick/punt returns to help pace the unit. Despite their sporadic play, the Bears DST was still a top-10 unit (thank you, Mr. Hester) last year and remains a low-end No. 1 DST for 2008. Think late-round pick with them this summer.
News: With the Bears' safety position in flux considering the injury questions surrounding Mike Brown, and with Adam Archuleta having played himself out of the starting lineup last season, Kevin Payne could be a major player, reports the Sports Xchange. A fifth-round draft pick last season, Payne impressed coaches during training camp and the preseason. After injuries decimated the secondary early in the season, he saw his first significant playing time in a Week 4 loss in Detroit, but suffered a broken arm while making a tackle. "It was disappointing because I'd been working so hard," Payne said. "When you're a rookie, a late-round rookie, you want to get out there and prove to the coaches what you can do." Because of the hitting ability that he displayed last season Payne will have that opportunity this offseason.
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens heading into the season with Brown before deciding on how good Payne could be. The Bears defense could be in trouble in 2008 if Brown isn't healthy and with the health status of LB Brian Urlacher.
News: Free-agent linebacker Lance Briggs re-signed with the Chicago Bears, agreeing to a six-year, $36 million deal Saturday. Agent Drew Rosenhaus said Briggs will earn $21.6 in salary through the first three years and the deal includes $13 million in guaranteed bonuses. Briggs had team-leading 10 tackles for loss last season and finished with 140 tackles (80 solo), and there was heavy speculation that he would leave. Rosenhaus said Briggs was close to signing with the Washington Redskins, who tried to acquire him last summer, and that Green Bay, Tampa Bay and New Orleans were interested. "I'm extremely happy about it,"' Briggs told the Chicago Tribune. "With Bernard (Berrian) signing with the Vikings, I think it gave me the opportunity to come home. I'm happy to return to the team that I started my career with."
Analysis: Briggs is expected to reprise his role as the weakside linebacker in the Bears' defense as a key run-stuffer. The Bears' defense took a huge step back in 2007, but their special teams, led by Devin Hester, kept running strong. They ranked 27th against the pass and 24th against the run, allowing 36 run/pass TDs). Chicago totaled 41 sacks, 33 fumbles recovered and 16 interceptions with one defensive touchdown (Brian Urlacher on an INT return in Week 16). However, Hester scored seven times on kick/punt returns to help pace the unit. Despite their sporadic play, the Bears DST was still a top-10 unit (thank you, Mr. Hester) last year and remains a low-end No. 1 DST for 2008. Think late-round pick with them this summer.
News: The Bears' defense took a huge step back in 2007, but their special teams, led by Devin Hester, kept running strong. They ranked 27th against the pass and 24th against the run, allowing 36 run/pass TDs). Chicago totaled 41 sacks, 33 fumbles recovered and 16 interceptions with one defensive touchdown (Brian Urlacher on an INT return in Week 16). However, Hester scored seven times on kick/punt returns to help pace the unit. Despite their sporadic play, the Bears DST was still a top-10 unit (thank you, Mr. Hester).
Analysis: Usually, you draft a DST for a defense and take whatever the special teams give you. But in the case of the Bears, perhaps drafting them for Devin Hester isn't such a bad thing. Tack on a defense that still has a good defensive line and good cornerbacks when healthy, and there's enough there to check out the Bears as a top-12 Fantasy option in 2008. Assuming they make few splashes via free agency defensively, figure the Bears DST to be worth a late-round pick in 2008 drafts.
News: In Week 17 vs. New Orleans, the Bears DST totaled three sacks, two interceptions, two forced fumbles (one recovered) and a punt return for a touchdown by Devin Hester.
Analysis: The Bears' biggest problem in 2007? Stopping the run. Expect them to address that bigtime this offseason. If they can do it nicely and keep LB Lance Briggs, they'll have a shot at being Fantasy relevant in 2008, especially with Devin Hester working on special teams.
News: The Bears allowed just 274 yards of offense and seven points in Week 16 vs. Green Bay. They forced two turnovers, with Brian Urlacher returning an interception 85 yards for a touchdown. Alex Brown had the team's only sack.
Analysis: The Bears defense suddenly came back to life in Week 16, but they have a tough matchup in Week 17 against a good Saints offense that is playing for a playoff spot. Consider them a decent start, but they may give up a lot of yards.
News: On the Bears' Wednesday injury report, the team announced that they rested the following players: DE Mark Anderson (knee), LB Lance Briggs (hip), DT Tommie Harris (knee), CB Nathan Vasher (groin), DT Darwin Walker (elbow), LB Rod Wilson (quad) and KR/PR Devin Hester (shin). Of these players, the only ones who are believed to be significantly hurt are Anderson, Harris and Walker.
Analysis: If too many Bears defenders (and/or Devin Hester) miss the team's Week 16 game, it will cause a setback for the club in what has recently been a dominating effort against Brett Favre. The Packers QB has two TDs and 11 interceptions in his last five games against Chicago. Keep tabs on the Bears DST as they aren't a lock to be a good -- or bad -- unit as of yet.
News: The Bears recorded three interceptions off Vikings QB Tarvaris Jackson in Week 15 at Minnesota -- one by Brian Urlacher, one by Nathan Vasher and one by Brandon McGowan. They also recorded two sacks and recovered a fumble, limiting the Vikings to 20 points on 372 yards. The Bears special teams, meanwhile, picked up a total of 107 yards.
Analysis: The Bears DST hasn't dominated like most thought it would this season, and it makes for an inadvisable Fantasy start more often than not, entering Monday's game ranked 29th in yards allowed. Don't use it Week 16 against the Packers.
News: The Bears defense managed to knock Redskins QB Jason Campbell out of the game in the second quarter Week 14 with a dislocated kneecap, but that didn't stall the Washington offense. Backup QB Todd Collins picked up where Campbell left off and led Washington to a 24-16 win. The Redskins totaled 345 yards. The Bears did not record any interceptions, but did force a Collins' fumble in which they recovered. They also only got one sack from Alex Brown and no kick returns for a touchdown from Devin Hester.
Analysis: The Bears have had a lot of erratic performances this season. They have not been the Fantasy DST many have envisioned, but you likely spent too high of a draft pick to give up on them now. Chicago might have some trouble stopping Vikings super rookie RB Adrian Peterson in Week 15 and the Bears DST is more of a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: The Bears DST totaled one sack, two interceptions and three forced fumbles vs. the Giants in Week 13.
Analysis: Chicago will play at Washington in Week 14 and be a decent DST option, although they should yield a lot of rush yards to Clinton Portis.
News: In Week 13, the Bears DST hosts the N.Y. Giants and QB Eli Manning, who threw four interceptions (three that were returned for touchdowns) last week. The Giants have the 18th-best offense in the league.
Analysis: The Bears DST is a solid start this week, despite the fact they are the lowest in the league in interceptions. They are among the tops in the NFL in sacks though. Get them active in Week 13.
News: The Bears DST had two sacks, an interception and a fumble recovery against Denver on Sunday. And Devin Hester returned two kicks for touchdowns. He had five kickoff returns for a 30.2-yard average and a touchdown and five punt returns for a 16.2-yard average and a touchdown.
Analysis: Because of Hester, the Bears DST remains a No. 1 option in all Fantasy leagues and should be started in Week 13 against the Giants.
News: The Bears DST hosts Denver on Sunday in Week 12. The Broncos are ranked 11th in total offense.
Analysis: The Bears DST ranks 17th in total defense, allowing 21.7 ppg. We don't recommend starting this unit outside of 12-team leagues.
News: The Bears defense had all sorts of trouble against the pass-happy Seahawks during a Week 11 loss. The Bears allowed 425 total yards and 30 points as Seattle took to the air for 44 pass attempts. The Bears forced just one turnover on a fumble and sacked Matt Hasselbeck twice.
Analysis: The Bears came off a strong performance in Week 10 against the Raiders to post a real stinker Week 11. The Bears defense just isn't the same unit it was in 2006 -- their Super Bowl season. But since you likely spent a high-round pick on the Bears DST, continue to start them Week 12 against the Broncos.
News: Chicago travels up to Seattle to face the Seahawks' 15th-ranked offense in Week 11 on Sunday.
Analysis: The Bears DST ranks 22nd in the league in total defense (16th against the pass and 26th against the run). They have 29 sacks though, which makes them a solid start in Fantasy leagues once again.
News: The Bears, coming off a bye Week 9, showed a little rest goes a long way as their defense turned in a stellar performance against the Raiders. Chicago allowed just six points on 193 yards and kept Oakland out of the end zone Week 10. Bears' defenders racked up four sacks, picked off one pass and forced two fumbles -- both recovered by the defense.
Analysis: All that was missing for the Bears DST was a defensive/special teams score. This is the Bears defense we are accustomed to seeing. The Bears came into Week 10 with the 27th overall defense, but looked more like the unit that led them to a Super Bowl in 2006. The Bears will look to keep it going Week 11 against the Seahawks. Consider them a No. 1 Fantasy DST.
News: Chicago hosts Oakland Sunday afternoon in a Week 10 matchup. The Raiders rank 22nd in total offense this season, which is a great improvement over last year.
Analysis: The Bears DST ranks only 27th in total defense, but they have 25 sacks on the season. Consider this a decent matchup for Chicago. Their DST is especially one to watch because of the always-dangerous return-man Devin Hester. Start this unit in all formats.
News: Four teams are on a bye in Week 9: Chicago, Miami, St. Louis and the N.Y Giants.
Analysis: The Bears DST ranks 26th in total defense this season, including 24th against the pass and 26th against the run. They have 25 sacks though, which currently ranks them second in the NFL. In Week 10, they'll travel to face Oakland, which is a pretty good matchup for them.
News: The Bears allowed 16 points and 365 yards of offense in Week 8 vs. Detroit. They forced just one turnover and piked up three sacks.
Analysis: The Bears defense has fallen well short of expectations this season. Much of that can be attributed to injuries, but they've suffered to stop the run this season and just can't get off the field the way they've been able to in recent years. In Week 9, the Bears will be on a bye. In Week 10, the Bears have a decent matchup against a shaky Raiders offense.
News: The Bears DST is ranked 25th in total defense, including 23rd against the pass and 26th against the run. They face a Detroit offense in Week 8 that is ranked 16th in total offense (seventh through the air and 27th on the ground).
Analysis: The Bears DST should be able to pick up a few sacks this weekend, as the Lions have allowed a league-high 31 sacks this season. Start them this week because of the matchup.
News: The Bears DST had three sacks and nothing else in Week 7's 19-16 win over the Eagles. They were held without an interception or a fumble recovery, but did hold the Eagles to only 16 points and gave up 334 of total offense.
Analysis: The Bears DST is slipping down the Fantasy rankings as injuries have turned them into a shell of their former selves. With teams also now kicking away from Devin Hester, their value will surely continue to slip, and they might be worth benching in Week 8 when they take on a Lions offense that is due for a big game.
News: The Bears had a rough week against the Vikings, allowing 444 total yards of offense, but they are hopeful of a rebound against the Eagles in Week 7. Philadelphia ranks ninth in total offense (15th in passing and 10th in rushing), but they have allowed 22 sacks this season, which is the second-highest number in the NFL.
Analysis: The Bears DST is having an off-season, despite the abilities of KR Devin Hester. The defensive unit ranks 27th in total defense, including 23rd against the pass and 26th against the run. We still recommend them as a decent Fantasy unit this week, based on their strong special teams play.
News: The Bears allowed 444 yards of offense in Week 6 vs. Minnesota, 311 of those yards coming on the ground. They did not force a turnover in the game and DL Alex Brown recorded the team's only sack of the game. Devin Hester, however, did return a punt 89 yards for a score.
Analysis: The vaunted Bears defense was ripped apart by Adrian Peterson, who ran for 224 yards on just 20 carries. Injuries have really limited the Bears on defense and have made them a very mediocre unit. The good news is that Hester continues to be a threat to score each time he steps out to field a kick. In Week 7 vs. Philadelphia, view the Bears as a mediocre option.
News: The Chicago Bears DST allowed 20 points and 439 total yards in Week 5 at Green Bay. They also picked up a sack, two interceptions and a pair of fumble recoveries. LB Lance Briggs led the way with 16 solo tackles and DB Charles Tillman forced a pair of WR James Jones fumbles.
Analysis: The defense has been banged up a little bit, so they haven't been as dominant as we're used to. They're still a must-start in all Fantasy leagues heading into Week 6 against Minnesota.
News: Notable Bears defenders on their Week 5 injury report include: CB Nathan Vasher (groin, doubtful), LB Lance Briggs (hamstring, questionable), CB Charles Tillman (ankle, questionable), SS Adam Archuleta (hand, probable), DT Tommie Harris (knee, probable) and LB Brian Urlacher (back, probable). Vasher and Urlacher didn't practice Friday, while Briggs and Tillman were limited in practice. Archuleta and Harris practiced in full. The Bears play at Green Bay in Week 5.
Analysis: Favre has done well against Chicago over the course of his career but has had trouble when the Bears play their first-team defense against him. That won't necessarily be the case in Week 5. Owners are advised to start the Bears DST as a low-end unit because of their special-teams play as well as their defense.
News: The Bears DST is ranked 15th in the NFL this season (19th against the pass and 10th against the run). They will travel to play Brett Favre and the Green Bay Packers in Lambeau Field Sunday.
Analysis: The Bears DST shut the Packers out last season in Lambeau Field, but we don't expect the same result. At the end of the year, the Packers scored 26 points at Chicago, before the Bears moved on to play in the Super Bowl. This defense is still a solid play against the future Hall of Famer and his teammates.
News: Despite giving up 37 points to the Lions in Week 4, the Bears DST totaled six sacks, two forced fumbles and a special-teams touchdown thanks to a Devin Hester kickoff return. And despite playing without four starters, they held the Lions to 247 pass yards and 95 rush yards. "Our season is not over," Brian Urlacher said after the game. "But we have to get better. We stink right now."
Analysis: The Bears DST should be considered a useful starting squad every week even though they're banged up. They play at Green Bay in Week 5, which will be a tough matchup if they're still hurting. Monitor the status of Bears DST in the coming week.
News: The Bears are expected to have their hands full with the Lions offense in Week 4, especially with both starting cornerbacks (Nathan Vasher and Charles Tillman) and DT Tommie Harris possibly out for the game. The Lions scored 21 points on the Bears in their home meeting against them in 2006 and have averaged 25.7 points per game through three weeks.
Analysis: It's tough to consider benching the Bears DST, but with their unit banged up, you may want to look for other options. See if you could start the Colts or Vikings in the place of the Bears in Week 4 Fantasy action. If you do have the Bears DST, at least you'll still have Devin Hester returning kicks for you.
News: The Chicago Bears DST had a rare off night, allowing 34 points and 431 total net yards in Week 3 against the Cowboys. They were able to manage three sacks and an interception in the loss.
Analysis: The Bears will look to take out their frustrations in Week 4 at Detroit, although it might be another long week against the high-flying Lions. They remain a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: LaDainian Tomlinson went nowhere in the season opener and Larry Johnson got a few hard knocks the following week. Now, Marion Barber and Julius Jones will try to do something two of the league's best running backs could not do against the Chicago Bears: find a few holes. "Both Jones and Barber are good running backs," Bears defensive tackle Darwin Walker said. "They run hard, they run physical." But can they run through the Bears? The Bears held Tomlinson to 25 yards in a 14-3 loss at San Diego to start the season, while Johnson ran for 55 in last week's 20-10 victory over Kansas City.
Analysis: So much for the Bears' run defense suffering with safety Mike Brown and nose tackle Dusty Dvoracek out for the season with knee injuries. An emotional leader, Brown ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in the fourth quarter against San Diego, and Dvoracek went down with a similar injury moments later. With Brown and Walker out, opponents were expected to find more room to run against the Bears. Instead, Johnson found it's still not easy to run against them. Dvoracek's replacement, Walker, showed he can get to the running back along with the quarterback. Known more for his pass-rushing ability, Walker stopped Johnson several times for little or no gain and had four tackles in all. The Bears will be tested in Week 3 against the Cowboys, but that is no reason to bench them in Fantasy leagues.
News: Devin Hester fielded the punt, and in a flash, the Chicago Bears were in control. Hester scored on a 73-yard punt in the second quarter and set up a field goal in the third with another long return as the defending NFC champions beat the Kansas City Chiefs 20-10 on Sunday. Hester also had a kickoff return for a TD negated by a penalty. The Bears defense did another great job, limited the Chiefs to 281 yards. They sacked QB Damon Huard four times and intercepted one pass.
Analysis: The Bears defense usually put forward a good effort every week no matter who is the opponent. Having a kick returner like Hester only elevates their Fantasy DST value. The Bears will be tested in Week 3 against the Cowboys, but that is no reason to bench them in Fantasy leagues.
News: The Chicago Bears elevated defensive tackle Antonio Garay to the active roster and signed cornerback Adebola Jimoh on Tuesday. The moves came one day after Chicago learned safety Mike Brown and defensive tackle Dusty Dvoracek would miss the rest of the season with knee injuries.
Analysis: Garay was the practice squad after appearing in four games for the Bears last year. Jimoh had 65 special teams tackles and 28 on defense over four seasons with the Washington Redskins. The Bears DST remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite the injuries, especially for Week 2 when they face the anemic Chiefs offense at home.
News: One day after dropping the season opener at San Diego in Week 1, the Chicago Bears lost defensive leader Mike Brown for the season. Brown was placed on injured reserve Monday with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. It's the third season-ending injury in four years for Brown, the soul of the Bears' secondary. Joining Brown on injured reserve was starting defensive tackle Dusty Dvoracek, who also ruptured his left ACL in Sunday's 14-3 loss.
Analysis: Brown was injured in the fourth quarter when Chargers fullback Lorenzo Neal, who was blocking, threw him to the ground. A team captain and former Pro Bowl pick, Brown limped toward the sideline. He and Dvoracek, who missed his rookie year with a foot injury, were carted off the field shortly afterward. With Brown and Dvoracek out, coach Lovie Smith said safety Danieal Manning and defensive tackle Darwin Walker will start this Sunday against Kansas City. Despite the losses, the Bears DST remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues for Week 2 against the Chiefs.
News: NFL Network reports that the Bears lost both DB Mike Brown and DT Dusty Dvoracek to knee injuries for the 2007 season. Both players got hurt in the season opener at San Diego.
Analysis: Despite the injuries, the Bears DST is unbenchable at this point. Considering their great run defense at San Diego, Larry Johnson's prospects shouldn't scare you. Start them when LJ and the Chiefs come to Soldier Field in Week 2.
News: The Chicago Tribune reports that Bears starting safety Mike Brown has injured his knee again, breaking down while talking to the media after the team's Week 1 loss at San Diego. Brown called the injury a sprained knee, but it could be worse than that. "We're holding out a little hope, but right now it doesn't look too good," Brown said. "It's a sprained knee right now, but it doesn't look too good. It's a shame. It hurts my feelings really bad." The Bears DST yielded just 14 points at San Diego in Week 1 and totaled three sacks and an interception. They held LaDainian Tomlinson to 25 rush yards, though he did have 51 receiving yards and 17 passing yards with two total TDs. The Chargers totaled 263 yards of offense.
Analysis: The club also lost DT Dusty Dvoracek in the game and could be out for a while. Brown is expected to be replaced by Danieal Manning in the starting lineup. Despite the injuries, the Bears DST is unbenchable at this point. Considering their great run defense at San Diego, Larry Johnson's prospects shouldn't scare you. Start them when LJ and the Chiefs come to Soldier Field in Week 2.
News: The Bears DST yielded just 14 points at San Diego in Week 1 and totaled three sacks and an interception. They held LaDainian Tomlinson to 25 rush yards, though he did have 51 receiving yards and 17 passing yards with two total TDs. The Chargers totaled 263 yards of offense.
Analysis: The Bears DST is unbenchable at this point. Considering their great run defense at San Diego, Larry Johnson's prospects shouldn't scare you. Start them when LJ and the Chiefs come to Soldier Field in Week 2.
News: Players seemed split on whether the Nike commercial that depicts Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson running roughshod through the "Bears" defense is a slap in the face or not, according to The Sports Exchange. The Chargers host the Bears on Sunday. Defensive tackle Tommie Harris, who participated in the shoot but appears for about a second, and linebacker Brian Urlacher have both voiced their displeasure, while others dismissed it as inconsequential. Harris has complained on several occasions that the commercial casts the Bears defense in a bad light. "They showed our defense getting run over," Harris said. "But we'll get a chance to correct that commercial and see if they keep playing it after."
Analysis: Does this really matter? The Bears sound like they have a little added incentive, but chances are this most recent revelation won't affect whether you choose to start their defense or not. As early as you probably drafted it, you should go ahead and start it Week 1, even against a jolted Chargers offense.
News: Backup DE Israel Idonije and third-string safety Kevin Payne were inactive for Thursday's preseason game against the Browns.
Analysis: Neither Idonije or Payne are worth using in IDP Fantasy leagues heading into Week 1 of the regular season.
News: The Bears spent $25 million to add veteran Darwin Walker to their defensive tackle rotation and also added veteran Anthony Adams as an unrestricted free agent. But a player they already had on the roster, Dusty Dvoracek, has been their best interior lineman in the preseason, according to the Sports Xchange. "Dusty's playing well," defensive end Adewale Ogunleye said. "He not only tries hard, he's making plays, and he's showing that he belongs to be out there with the ones. He just has a fire and a type of energy that helps; that we all feed on. He's a nose guard, and the nose guard is kind of like the center of the defensive line."
Analysis: Dvoracek was a third-round draft choice in 2006 who missed his rookie season with a foot injury. He's come on during the preseason and is earning himself a starting job on one of the better defenses in the NFL. Consider him a sleeper in deep IDP formats. The Bears DST is one of the elite options in Fantasy and should be amont the first three units taken on Draft Day.
News: The Northwest Herald reports that Bears LB Brian Urlacher and DT Tommie Harris were back at practice on Wednesday after missing some practice with what coach Lovie Smith said was "general soreness." Their status for the Bears' second preseason game at Indianapolis is not known, although Smith did say this week that "all of our team is able for playing right now."
Analysis: Expect Urlacher and Harris to be fine. The Bears are so deep defensively that a handful of their defenders on the bench (such as DT Anthony Adams, DE Alex Brown, LB Jamar Williams, CB Ricky Manning Jr. and DB Danieal Manning) could start for other clubs. Tack on the return of LB Lance Briggs and the club's swell return game bolstered by Devin Hester and rookie Garrett Wolfe, and the Bears now have the stuff to be the top DST in Fantasy Football, worth a pick starting in Round 8.
News: The Chicago Tribune reports that the Panthers sent an undisclosed draft pick to the Bears Thursday for safety Chris Harris. Harris was expendable in Chicago with the club signing Adam Archuleta this offseason.
Analysis: The Bears are so deep defensively that they could afford to move Harris, and he might not be the only defender they trade away. The Bears are so deep that a handful of their defenders on the bench (such as DT Anthony Adams, DE Alex Brown, LB Jamar Williams, CB Ricky Manning Jr. and DB Danieal Manning) could start for other clubs. Tack on the return of LB Lance Briggs and the club's swell return game bolstered by Devin Hester and rookie Garrett Wolfe, and the Bears now have the stuff to be the top DST in Fantasy Football, worth a pick starting in Round 8.
News: Brown is healthy after undergoing surgery to repair ligament damage in his right foot and so is Pro Bowl defensive tackle Tommie Harris, who suffered a season-ending hamstring injury last December. Pro Bowl linebacker Lance Briggs finally decided to accept the Bears' franchise tender offer of one year and $7.2 million last week, ending the drama after threatening a prolonged holdout.
Analysis: Troubled defensive tackle Tank Johnson is gone, with veteran Darwin Walker taking his place. And Chicago acquired strong safety Adam Archuleta from Washington in March. "I thought it was a very good offseason," general manager Jerry Angelo said. It was so good that the Bears are our top-rated Fantasy DST heading into the 2007 season, so remember them in the middle rounds on Draft Day when you're getting ready to pull the trigger to fill your defense slot. You certainly won't be sorry with their production, especially with Brown and Harris back and healthy.
News: The Bills ended Darwin Walker's holdout Sunday by trading the disgruntled veteran defensive tackle to Chicago. In exchange, the Bills received a fifth-round pick in next year's draft. Walker should fit in right away as a starter, replacing the released Tank Johnson on the Bears' D-line.
Analysis: This is huge (literally) for the Bears, as now they've acquired more talent to make them even deeper defensively. The club needed a defensive tackle to replace Johnson as well as add depth. In fact, the Bears are so deep that a handful of their defenders on the bench (such as DT Anthony Adams, DE Alex Brown, LB Jamar Williams, CB Ricky Manning Jr. and DB Danieal Manning) could start for other clubs. Tack on the return of LB Lance Briggs and the club's swell return game bolstered by Devin Hester and rookie Garrett Wolfe, and the Bears now have the stuff to be the top DST in Fantasy Football, worth a pick starting in Round 8.
News: The Bears announced that LB Lance Briggs has agreed to sign a one-year deal with the Bears equal to the $7.2 million tender offer he got for being the club's franchised player in free agency. The Bears did not announce this, but it is believed that the Bears will not franchise him in the following offseason, allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent after 2007.
Analysis: A big part of the Bears defense will be in camp and be ready to go for the start of the '07 season. That's great news for Fantasy owners hoping the Bears DST will be a force again. The Bears offer a tremendous defense and boast a terrific special teams unit, too. Continue to view them as a No. 1 DST worth taking between Rounds 8 and 11 in standard leagues.
News: The Bears announced Tuesday that they have given a six-year contract extension to CB Charles Tillman. Terms were not disclosed. Tillman forms a formidable 1-2 punch at cornerback with Nathan Vasher, who also received a long-term extension this offseason. Tillman is a very good NFL cornerback but also has the ability to play safety in a pinch.
Analysis: The Bears have spread a lot of money around, but none of it has gone Lance Briggs' way. The Pro Bowl LB is still holding out and refuses to sign his one-year tender. Even without Briggs, the Bears offer a tremendous defense and boast a terrific special teams unit, too. Continue to view them as a No. 1 DST worth taking between Rounds 8 and 11 in standard leagues.
News: ChicagoBears.com reports that the team has waived DT Tank Johnson. The troubled defensive lineman had been arrested recently in Arizona, and the club apparently did not want to deal with him anymore from a public relations perspective. "We are upset and embarrassed by Tank's actions last week," said general manager Jerry Angelo. "He compromised the credibility of our organization. We made it clear to him that he had no room for error. Our goal was to help someone through a difficult period in his life, but the effort needs to come from both sides. It didn't, and we have decided to move on." ... In better news, the team signed CB Nathan Vasher to a contract extension that keeps him off the free-agent market next offseason.
Analysis: Johnson's departure won't hinder the Bears DST a bit, but losing Vasher would have hurt; the club already covered for Tank by signing Anthony Adams. Continue to view the Bears as a top-flight Fantasy DST option.
News: The Washington Post reports that an NFL source claims the Bears and Redskins have restarted trade talks involving restricted free-agent LB Lance Briggs. The Redskins previously offered to swap first-round picks (the Redskins' No. 6 for the Bears' No. 31) for Briggs, but the Bears also tried to get LB Rocky McIntosh and the Redskins balked. Now a deal could come as late as the NFL draft when the Redskins are on the clock -- if the Bears like someone who is available in the draft.
Analysis: The Bears have come alive this offseason, signing DT Anthony Adams and trading for SS Adam Archuleta (from Washington). Still, they're going to be missing something if they deal off Briggs. Regardless, consider them a top-five Fantasy DST in all of 2007's leagues.
News: Bears GM Jerry Angelo denied the team has been involved in trade talks regarding disgruntled linebacker Lance Briggs. "I've not heard anything official from anybody," Angelo said Wednesday at a news conference to discuss this weekend's NFL draft. Several reports claimed a handful of teams besides the Washington Redskins have talked to the Bears about trading for Briggs, who is guaranteed $7.2 million by the Bears this season as their franchise player. Briggs wants to be traded or receive a long-term contract. The Redskins last month offered the Bears their sixth pick overall in the draft for Briggs and the Bears' 31st overall pick. "Could (a trade) happen? It could happen," Angelo said. "But I can't sit here and put a percentage on it one way or another. I'm not in control of that."
Analysis: As a restricted free agent, Briggs can only sign an offer sheet with another team that the Bears have the option to match. If they don't match it, they'll receive two first-round draft picks as compensation, a price teams are unwilling to pay for Briggs' services. The Bears would be far more effective defensively if Briggs was on staff, but they've added some quality players in SS Adam Archuleta and DT Anthony Adams to their defense. View them as a top-five DST unit in 2007 Fantasy play.
News: The Chicago Tribune reports that five teams have expressed interest in Bears restricted free-agent LB Lance Briggs. Those teams are the Buccaneers, Giants, Broncos, Bills and Redskins. As a restricted free agent, Briggs can only sign an offer sheet with another team that the Bears have the option to match. If they don't match it, they'll receive two first-round draft picks as compensation, a price teams are unwilling to pay for Briggs' services. The Bears and Briggs have been at odds since the team slapped the franchise player tag on him in mid-February. Briggs threatened to sit out the season, then agent Drew Rosenhaus said his client would sit out the first 10 games and report for the final six to qualify as serving one year as a franchise player.
Analysis: The Bears would be far more effective defensively if Briggs was on staff, but they've added some quality players in SS Adam Archuleta and DT Anthony Adams to their defense. View them as a top-five DST unit in 2007 Fantasy play.
News: FOX Sports reports that the Bears have turned down the Redskins' offer of a swap of first-round picks for LB Lance Briggs. Moreover, the Bears haven't offered a counteroffer, signaling that they'd like to try and keep Briggs (or they want more for him). Briggs remains franchised and would need a team to sign him to an offer sheet to have a chance at changing squads, something that he has vowed to do since the Bears won't give him a long-term extension.
Analysis: The Bears would be far more effective defensively if Briggs was on staff for the whole season. They've also added some quality players in SS Adam Archuleta and DT Anthony Adams to their defense this year, so don't discount them as a top-end DST unit in 2007 Fantasy play.
News: The standoff between Lance Briggs and the Chicago Bears took another turn Saturday, when general manager Jerry Angelo said he wants the Pro Bowl linebacker to return next season but a multiyear contract is unlikely. "I'm not ruling it out 100 percent, but in all probability, that's not likely to happen," Angelo said during the team's fan convention. The Bears and Briggs have been at odds since the team slapped the franchise player tag on him in mid-February. Briggs threatened to sit out the season, then agent Drew Rosenhaus said his client would sit out the first 10 games and report for the final six to qualify as serving one year as a franchise player. Meanwhile, the Washington Redskins offered the sixth pick in the draft for Briggs and the Redskins' No. 31 selection. The Washington Post reports the Bears will make a counteroffer.
Analysis: The Bears have come alive this offseason, signing DT Anthony Adams and trading for SS Adam Archuleta. Still, they're going to be missing something in their run defense if they deal off Briggs. Regardless, consider them a top-five Fantasy DST in all of 2007's leagues.
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that despite Lovie Smith saying he expects LB Lance Briggs to stay with the team, the Bears are considering a counter offer for Washington in a deal involving their frustrated linebackers. It is believed that the Bears want a package of players and picks for Briggs. The Redskins have made it clear that they want to sign Briggs and give him $20 million guaranteed. Washington originally offered a swap of first-round picks -- their sixth overall pick for the Bears' 31st overall choice -- for Briggs, but it is believed that the Bears don't want that top pick because of the money they would have to commit to it.
Analysis: The Bears have come alive this offseason, signing DT Anthony Adams and trading for SS Adam Archuleta. Still, they're going to be missing something in their run defense if they deal off Briggs. Regardless, consider them a top-five Fantasy DST in all of 2007's leagues.
News: A lot of news about Bears franchised free-agent LB Lance Briggs has made headlines. NFL Network reports that Briggs is scheduled to meet with the Bears' front office to discuss his future and possibly re-open long-term contract talks. However, FOX Sports reports that the Redskins are dangling the sixth overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft in exchange for Briggs and the Bears' 31st overall draft choice. The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Briggs' agent, Drew Rosenhaus, claims that his client will hold out for the first 10 games of the season to combat the franchise tag. If he holds out for any more than 10 games, he won't accrue a season under the NFL's rules. "We don't have anything to say," Bears team president Ted Phillips said Monday. "We franchised him. He's going to make a lot of money. We think he's a good player, and we want him on our team. It's as simple as that from our standpoint."
Analysis: The Bears have come alive this offseason, signing DT Anthony Adams and trading for SS Adam Archuleta. Still, they're going to be missing something if they deal off Briggs. Regardless, consider them a top-five Fantasy DST in all of 2007's leagues.
News: The Bears have agreed to terms on a four-year contract with former San Francisco defensive tackle Anthony Adams. Adams was a second-round draft pick in 2003 and has started 34 games in four seasons with the 49ers, where he struggled last season to fit into a 3-4 scheme. The Penn State product had 155 tackles, including six sacks in 58 games.
Analysis: Adams helps the Bears' depth along the defensive line, which they will need with a suspension likely for DT Tank Johnson. He joins SS Adam Archuleta as new Bears defenders this season. Adams' signing definitely helps, but the team still has a stormy battle ahead with LB Lance Briggs. Ultimately, they should remain a No. 1 Fantasy DST worth taking in the middle rounds of 2007 drafts.
News: Adam Archuleta's tumultuous time with the Washington Redskins ended Tuesday night when he was traded to the Chicago Bears for a sixth-round draft pick. Archuleta, who languished on the bench most of last season despite having the richest contract ever given a safety, will be reunited in Chicago with coach Lovie Smith, his former defensive coordinator with the St. Louis Rams. The trade was confirmed by an official within the league who spoke on condition of anonymity because the teams do not plan to announce it until Wednesday. The deal came one day before Archuleta was due to paid a guaranteed $5 million bonus.
Analysis: Archuleta should regain his form under the tutelage of Lovie Smith, helping the Bears secondary become stronger against the run and a little better against the pass. The Bears have still lost plenty of depth and have a stormy battle ahead with LB Lance Briggs, but they should remain a No. 1 Fantasy DST worth taking in the middle rounds of 2007 drafts.
News: Bears defensive lineman Tank Johnson was sentenced Thursday to four months in jail for violating probation in a 2005 gun case. Johnson was taken into custody and will spend the next 120 days in the Cook County Jail. He could have been sentenced to up to a year behind bars. He also must pay a $2,500 fine after pleading guilty to violating his probation. Johnson's lawyers said they had not yet decided whether to appeal the sentence, but suggested the football player's celebrity influenced the sentence. "This sentence was unnecessarily harsh," defense attorney Lorna Propes said. "It's pretty unheard of for these circumstances."
Analysis: Johnson will be subject to suspension because of the NFL's personal conduct policy and is expected to miss at least the first four games of the 2007 season. The Bears defense will miss him if he is suspended, but they're also in line to miss LB Lance Briggs, who was franchised but does not want to play for the team anymore. If the Bears lose Briggs, they will lose a solid tackler who is very good against the run, but ultimately they will still be a quality No. 1 Fantasy DST to use in 2007 play.
News: FOXSports.com reports that Bears LB Lance Briggs is refusing to play for the Bears ever again, and is even willing to sit out the whole 2007 season. "I am now prepared to sit out the year if the Bears don't trade me or release me," Briggs said Monday. "I've played my last snap for them. I'll never play another down for Chicago again." Briggs was franchised by the Bears, guaranteeing him an offer of over $7 million for 2007, but without a long-term committment, Briggs won't show up and play. "People think I can't afford to sit out the year, I can take out loans to get me through that year just fine because eventually I'll have a deal somewhere," he said. "There are things I can do to make sure I'm fine financially if I sit out. I can also decide what other course of action I can take as the season gets closer. The Bears have shown I'm not in their long-term plans so if that's the case, I don't want to be here."
Analysis: The Bears made it clear earlier this offseason that they weren't wavering on Briggs' stance. Whether that changes now remains to be seen. If the Bears lose Briggs, they will lose a solid tackler who is very good against the run, but they will still be a quality No. 1 Fantasy DST to use in 2007 play.
News: Disgruntled Pro Bowl linebacker Lance Briggs wants out of Chicago, saying the Bears should remove his franchise player tag or trade him. General manager Jerry Angelo had a message for Briggs on Tuesday: The Bears are expecting him to play with them this season, with a one-year, $7.2 million deal, the average of the top five salaries at his position. "We have his rights, so he's on our football team," Angelo said Tuesday. "We feel that we're treating him very good. That's a lot of money he's making on a one year-deal. The strain really comes to us in terms of our cap and what we have to do for a one-year deal." Angelo said he had no calls about Briggs from other teams.
Analysis: Briggs' status does impact the status of the Bears DST a little bit. If he plays in Chicago, then the Bears remain a top-two unit in Fantasy play; if Briggs leaves and he's not properly replaced, then the Bears are more of a top-five squad. Either way, expect to see them drafted with a middle- to late-round pick in 2007 drafts.
News: The Bears defense and special teams unit brought in plenty of Fantasy points for owners in 2006. Starting with the special teams, rookie Devin Hester returned three punts, two kickoffs and a missed field goal for touchdowns, averaging 26.4 yards per kickoff return and 12.8 yards per punt return. Defensively, the Bears totaled 40 sacks, 24 interceptions, 20 forced fumbles and three defensive touchdowns.
Analysis: Without question, you're looking at a top-three DST for 2007 Fantasy play. True, they still need to make sure LB Lance Briggs stays on board, and the secondary has some minor issues, but the Bears defense should be ferocious and their special teams will be a threat so long as Hester is healthy. Consider the Bears DST right up there with the Ravens and Chargers; one of these three units should be first off the board with a middle-round pick in drafts.
News: ESPN reports that Bears LB Lance Briggs, whom the team placed the franchise tag on, has asked the team to either rescind the franchise tag or trade him. He's upset they franchised him and that they didn't keep defensive coordinator Ron Rivera. "There's a difference between the Chicago Bears team and the Chicago Bears organization," Briggs said. "The Chicago Bears team? The coaches, players, city and fans? Yeah, I could stay there forever. I love it. But the Chicago Bears organization? I don't want to be there anymore. I won't play for them and I'll do everything in my power to keep from playing there."
Analysis: It's going to be interesting to see how this plays out. Briggs brings tons of tackles to the Bears defense and helps against both the run and the pass, so if he left town he'd be missed. For now, the Bears are a solid No. 1 Fantasy defense, but they better get the situation with Briggs settled quickly.
News: The Bears promoted assistant head coach/linebackers coach Bob Babich to defensive coordinator, just days after not re-signing coach Ron Rivera. Rivera has since landed with the Chargers. Babich is expected to run the defense under the same scheme as Rivera.
Analysis: Losing Rivera hurts a little bit, but expect the Bears defense to be a solid unit again in 2007. Tack on Devin Hester's return ability, and the DST makes for a top option to go with as a middle-round pick on draft day.
News: The Bears have tagged free-agent linebacker Lance Briggs as their "franchise player." What that means is that the club has tendered him a one-year offer with the average salary of the top-five highest-paid players at his position. Moreover, if a team wishes to make Briggs an offer, the Bears have the right to match the offer. If they choose not to match the offer, they will get two first-round picks from the team who signs him.
Analysis: Briggs was a monster for the Bears, totaling 130 tackles (109 solo) with a sack, four forced fumbles, eight passes defensed and two interceptions. The Bears DST will be solid in 2007, but they'll be best served to keep Briggs around to help take pressure off of Brian Urlacher and keep the opposing running games down.
News: Chicago Bears DL Tank Johnson will play in the Super Bowl. Cook County Judge John Moran approved a defense request Tuesday to allow Johnson to leave the state as he awaits trial on gun possession charges. The Bears will play the Indianapolis Colts in the Super Bowl in Miami on Feb. 4. Johnson was arrested Dec. 14 after police raided his home in Gurnee, about 40 miles northwest of Chicago. Prosecutors say officers found six weapons and ammunition in Johnson's home. He faces 10 counts of possession of firearms without a state gun-owner identification card. It was his third arrest in 18 months. Johnson has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Earlier this month, a judge in Lake County, where his home is located, granted a defense request to allow Johnson to travel freely outside the state. But Cook County prosecutors argued that Johnson's December arrest violated probation from a 2005 gun charge. A Cook County judge previously ordered Johnson to stay at home except to go to work, and he needed Moran's permission to leave Illinois for the Super Bowl.
Analysis: Johnson has minimal Fantasy value in IDP leagues for the playoffs. But he does improve the Bears run defense by taking up bodies on the offensive line.
News: The Chicago DST will be tested by the Saints offense. QB Drew Brees passed for a league-leading 4,418 yards during the regular season. They have one WR, Marques Colston, who had 1,038 yards, and three others with more than 600: Devery Henderson (745), Reggie Bush (742) and Joe Horn (679). Bush also ran for 565 yards and Deuce McAllister gained 1,057, so the Saints don't mind handing the ball off, either. The Bears' defense dominated for much of the season, then seemed to take as many hits as it dished out. It went from allowing 251.8 yards through the first 10 games to 364.7 over the final six of the regular season, and its ranking dropped from first to fifth. After forcing 39 turnovers through the first 12 games, it came away with five over the next four. That does not include last week's 27-24 overtime victory over Seattle, in which the Bears allowed 306 yards and had one takeaway - an interception by cornerback Ricky Manning Jr.
Analysis: The Bears DST is not the same as it was earlier in the season. Expect them to struggle against the Saints offense in the NFC Championship Game.
News: The Bears defense totaled three sacks and one interception vs. Seattle in the Divisional Playoffs. They also had a special-teams touchdown called back due to a penalty.
Analysis: The Bears defense did allow over 100 rush yards and nearly 200 pass yards in the game, so they are far from dominant. Still, they are one of the best -- if not the best -- defense/special teams unit left in the playoff race, so use them in Fantasy Playoffs if you can.
News: Bears DB Charles Tillman (back) is questionable, while DL Alex Brown (illness) is listed as probable for Divisional Playoff game vs. Seattle.
Analysis: Brown is expected to play against the Seahawks and the Bears DST is one of the best options in Fantasy postseason leagues.
News: The Bears defense limped into the postseason, giving up 26 points to Green Bay while only tallying two sacks, one interception and two forced fumbles in Week 17.
Analysis: There's room for the Bears to slip out of being a No. 1 Fantasy defense this offseason as Tommie Harris will come back from an injury, Tank Johnson could be released and Lance Briggs will test free agency. At least Devin Hester will return. If the unit comes back in tact in 2007, then there's no reason to believe they won't be as good. But their division will be stronger, as will their schedule. Consider them a middle-end defense/special teams crew for 2007 at this moment.
News: The Bears yielded 327 yards and 21 points to the Lions in Week 16. They did recover one fumble and got two sacks from rookie DL Mark Anderson, who now has 12 sacks on the season. Alfonso Boone also had a sack.
Analysis: The Bears had another rough outing in Week 16 and it seems they might be losing their touch on defense heading into the playoffs. Still, the Bears DST should be started in all Fantasy leagues for Week 17. Anderson has been a pleasant surprise this season despite the fact that he doesn't start for the Bears. He is a solid Fantasy player for Week 17 and will likely be drafted in Fantasy IDP leagues next season.
News: On Wednesday, Bears defenders listed on the team's injury report for Week 16 at Detroit were: LB Leon Joe (hamstring), SS Todd Johnson (ankle), CB Charles Tillman (back), CB Nathan Vasher (hamstring) and LB Hunter Hillenmeyer (thigh). Of these players, only Hillenmeyer is probable; the rest are questionable. However, Johnson and Vasher were the only two who practiced with the team on Wednesday.
Analysis: The Bears defense/special teams is still too strong to sit, even if these guys miss Week 16 against a battered Lions offense. Keep in mind that the Bears have nothing to play for this week and staying healthy is almost more important than winning the game, so you may see more reserves play than normal.
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that the Bears are coming up with a plan with the NFL to keep DT Tank Johnson on their roster. Johnson is not expected to play in Week 16 at Detroit but could return for the postseason. Johnson was recently arrested for having multiple firearms in his house without a permit and was a witness to an altercation in a Chicago night club that saw his bodyguard get fatally shot.
Analysis: With or without Tank Johnson, the Bears defense is a must start at Detroit in Week 16.
News: The usually tough Bears defense survived a late run by the Bucs in Week 15 to hold onto the win. The Bears defense gave up 31 points and 357 yards. They came away with one interception (Chris Harris) and two sacks (Ricky Manning Jr.).
Analysis: The Bears have had to overcome injuries and possible a long-term suspension for DL Tank Johnson, but are still finding a way to win games. The Bears defense got a challenge from the Bucs in Week 15, yet they still remain a solid Fantasy DST. Consider them a must-start in Week 16 at Detroit. Manning now has seven interceptions on the season and should be used in Fantasy leagues where needed.
News: The Bears had three questionable defenders on their injury report on Wednesday: CB Nathan Vasher (hamstring), LB Leon Joe (hamstring) and SS Todd Johnson (ankle).
Analysis: The Bears defense should be just fine. Only Vasher is worth considering in IDP Fantasy league play, and when healthy he's a No. 3 CB at best.
News: On Tuesday, the Bears placed DT Tommie Harris on Injured Reserve following surgery to repair a hamstring tendon. He is expected to make a full recovery and be ready to play in 2007. The team signed DB Nick Turnbull off waivers from Atlanta with their open roster spot.
Analysis: Harris got off to a hot start but was very average following the first four games of the season. The Bears defense remains one of the most sought-after units in Fantasy Football (especially when you consider their special teams). Consider them a must-start vs. Tampa Bay in Week 15.
News: DB/KR Devin Hester set an NFL record with his sixth return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter in Week 14 at St. Louis. He had a pair of kickoff returns in the game, becoming just the sixth player in NFL history to accomplish the feat. Oh yeah, the Bears DST also allowed 27 points and 433 total net yards.
Analysis: The Bears also racked up three sacks and a late interceptions. Brian Urlacher lead the charge with eight solo tackles and two assists, while Lance Briggs also chipped in with nine solo tackles. The Bears DST remains the top Fantasy defense in all formats. Chicago host rookie QB Bruce Gradkowski and Tampa Bay in Week 15, so expect another big week.
News: ChicagoBears.com reports Tommie Harris will have season-ending surgery to repair a ruptured hamstring and he will be out for the season. He is expected to be placed on injured reserve and will miss the playoffs, too. The team feels Harris will be ready for training camp in 2007. He is also battling a sprained knee, but that injury will not require surgery.
Analysis: In other news, DBs Todd Johnson (ankle) and Nathan Vasher (hamstring) are OUT for Week 14 at St. Louis, as they will be replaced by Chris Harris and Ricky Manning Jr. They might be susceptible to the long ball with a decimated secondary.
News: The Chicago Bears say it will take a team effort to overcome the likely loss of their second Pro Bowl defender this season. The Bears lost safety Mike Brown six games into the season. Now it's defensive tackle Tommie Harris who is unlikely to return. "It's going to be tough to replace him. It's going to be like Mike Brown, you're not going to replace him," linebacker Brian Urlacher said Friday. "It's going to be a group effort by our D-line." The hamstring is expected to keep Harris out of the last four regular-season games and the playoffs. Harris had played in 44 straight games since being drafted in 2004, starting 43 of them. "Everybody looks at him and says 'Yeah, he's special,' just because he's so fast, he's so strong, he's so motivated to be the best," defensive end Alex Brown said.
Analysis: The Bears defense is still a must-start unit at St. Louis in Week 14.
News: The Bears' Week 14 injury report includes: DT Tommie Harris (knee, hamstring) as out, LB Leon Joe (hamstring), SS Todd Johnson (ankle) and CB Nathan Vasher (hamstring) as questionable.
Analysis: The Bears defense is still a must-start unit at St. Louis in Week 14.
News: The Bears DST had two touchdowns and a safety against Minnesota. DB Devin Hester scored on a 45-yard punt return, DB Ricky Manning scored on a 54-yard interception return and DL Tank Johnson had a safety. The Bears also got interceptions from LB Lance Briggs, LB Brian Urlacher and DB Daniel Manning. LB Hunter Hillenmeyer recovered a fumble. DB Chris Harris had 13 tackles, Urlancher had eight tackles and Briggs had seven tackles. Johnson, DL Adewale Ogunleye and DL Alex Brown each had a sack.
Analysis: The Bears are one of the best DST options and should be considered a No. 1 option for Week 14 against the Rams. Use all regular IDP players.
News: The Bears defense totaled two interceptions and four forced fumbles but couldn't sack Tom Brady in a Week 12 loss at New England. They did allow 17 points but finally held a team to under 100 rush yards (but did allow 269 pass yards), the first time they did it in five weeks.
Analysis: The Bears defense should finish strong as their schedule is easy to end the season. Use them as a must-start unit vs. Minnesota in Week 13.
News: Bears CB Ricky Manning has been suspended one game for violating the NFL's Personal Conduct Policy and will not play at New England in Week 12. He pleaded no contest to a felony assault charge when he attacked a man outside of a Denny's Restaurant in April.
Analysis: Despite Manning's absence, the Bears defense is too strong to sit in Fantasy league play.
News: The Bears defense sacked and picked off Chad Pennington twice each en route to shutting out the Jets in Week 11.
Analysis: The Bears defense continues to play at a high level. Don't bench them despite their difficult Week 12 matchup at New England.
News: Notable Bears defenders on the Week 11 injury report include LB Leon Joe (hamstring) and CB Dante Wesley (knee) as questionable; and DT Tommie Harris (back) as probable. Wesley and Harris did not practice on Wednesday.
Analysis: Harris is a key to the Bears defensive line, but he should be fine for the game at the Jets in Week 11. Absolutely start the Bears defense in all leagues.
News: The Chicago Bears defense allowed 20 points and 249 total net yards in Week 10 at N.Y. Giants. Most of the grounds came from RB Tiki Barber, who gashed the Bears for 141 rushing yards. The Bears did get a missed field goal returned by rookie Devin Hester for 108 yards, which tied the NFL record held by teammate Nathan Vasher.
Analysis: The Bears defense will look to bounce back in Week 11 at N.Y. Jets. They remain a must-start in all Fantasy leagues despite a couple of shaky performances in a row.
News: The Chicago Bears announced WR Bernard Berrian (ribs), DT Antonio Garay, LB Darrell McClover, OG Antonio Oakley, QB Kyle Orton, FB J.D. Runnels and DB Dante Wesley were inactive for Week 10 against the Giants.
Analysis: With the exception of Berrian, none of the players mentioned are worth using in Week 11 at N.Y. Jets.
News: Bears LB Brian Urlacher (toe) practiced Friday for the first time this week and remains questionable for Week 10 at the Giants. Urlacher hurt his toe late in Week 9 in a loss to the Dolphins.
Analysis: Expect Urlacher to play, making the Bears defense a No. 1 option in Fantasy play.
News: Bears LB Brian Urlacher (toe) missed practice on Wednesday and is questionable for Week 10 at the Giants. Teammate S Dante Wesley (knee) is also questionable and missed practice.
Analysis: The Bears defense would take a huge hit if Urlacher wasn't in the lineup. However, they are still a talented bunch with or without him and should be viewed as a No. 1 defense in Fantasy play.
News: Bears star linebacker Brian Urlacher sprained the big toe on his left foot during a 31-13 loss to Miami. Coach Lovie Smith said Monday the status for the 2005 NFL defensive player of the year is undetermined for Sunday night's game against the Giants. Urlacher suffered the injury in a pileup with just more than a minute left Sunday when the Bears lost for the first time this season after seven straight wins. "He feels better today and hopefully he'll be able to feel better and be able to go this week," Smith said. "We'll see how it goes with him." Smith said he wasn't sure if Urlacher would be able to practice; he walked without a limp on Monday.
Analysis: The Bears defense will be challenged by the Giants whether Urlacher plays or not. Consider them a must-start defense in Week 10, but expect them to yield some points.
News: FOXSports.com reports that Bears LB Brian Urlacher has a strained foot, but hopes to play at the Giants in Week 10. "If it's up to me I will," Urlacher said. "They told me it all depends on how much pain I can take. I can deal with that."
Analysis: The Bears defense will be challenged by the Giants whether Urlacher plays or not. Consider them a must-start defense in Week 10, but expect them to yield some points.
News: The Bears DST had no sacks against Miami and gave up 31 points. LB Brian Urlacher had 12 tackles. DL Alex Brown had six tackles and an interception. DB Nathan Vasher had three tackles and an interception. LB Brendon Ayanbadejo recovered a fumble. LB Lance Briggs had five tackles. DB Charles Tillman had six tackles.
Analysis: The Bears will look to bounce back against the Giants in Week 10. Use all their IDP players as needed.
News: The Bears defense totaled two sacks, one interception and five forced fumbles vs. San Francisco in Week 8. They held the Niners to 10 points but did yield over 100 rushing yards for the second time this season.
Analysis: The Bears defense should dominate again when they play vs. Miami in Week 9. They are a must-start if you own them.
News: A rested Bears defense will host the 49ers in Week 8 play. The Niners are solid on the ground thanks to RB Frank Gore and are averaging 20.7 points per game, but the Bears run defense is outstanding. Chicago is allowing less than 75 rush yards per contest with one rush TD allowed this year (on a Jon Kitna QB sneak). In their last game, they held Edgerrin James to 55 yards on 36 carries!
Analysis: The Bears defense has reached must-start status in Fantasy play. Expect a bunch of sacks and at least one interception, though the Niners could put up some points late in the game. Start the Bears D in Week 8.
News: Chicago Bears safety Mike Brown was placed on injured reserve Thursday and will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing surgery a day earlier to repair ligament damage in his right foot. Brown, who made the Pro Bowl last season, was injured in Monday night's 24-23 win at Arizona. He will be replaced in the starting lineup by Todd Johnson. "It's disappointing, obviously," Brown said in the Bears' locker room, wearing a huge cast on his foot. "I know I can come back (next season) and play at a high level." Brown, who missed the final four games last season with a calf injury and was out after just two games in 2004 with an Achilles injury, was hurt in a pileup in the fourth quarter. Earlier in the game, he'd scooped up a fumble and returned it for a touchdown - his franchise-best seventh career defensive TD.
Analysis: Brown's injury leaves the Bears thin at safety. Backup Chris Harris has missed three of the past four games with a pulled quadriceps and a sprained ankle. Brandon McGowan was suspended by the team for a week for violating a team rule, but is expected to be back Monday. Brown's injury could mean more playing time for Todd Johnson, who replaced him on Monday, and Cameron Worrell. Brown should be only kept in keeper leagues at this point. As for the Bears DST, Brown was just a part of the dominant defensive unit. They are still one of the best Fantasy DST options on the market.
News: The Chicago Bears DST had a huge game in Week 6 at Arizona, posting two touchdowns on fumble recoveries and a punt return for touchdown by rookie Devin Hester. They allowed 23 points and 286 total net yards. DB Mike Brown (3 yards) and Charles Tillman (40 yards) were the touchdown scorers on the fumbles. They also had a sack in the game.
Analysis: LB Brian Urlacher was also all over the field, racking up 11 solo tackles and eight assists with three quarterback hurries, two passes defensed and a forced fumble. LB Lance Briggs also had 13 solo tackles and two assists in the win. It was all defense for the Bears in Week 6, as they remain a must-start DST in all Fantasy leagues for Week 8 against San Francisco once the team returns from its bye. Briggs and Urlacher are also great plays in IDP leagues.
News: The Chicago Bears announced WR Mark Bradley (ankle), DL Antonio Garay, FS Chris Harris, LB Leon Joe (hamstring), OG Anthony Oakley, DL Adewale Ogunleye (hamstring), QB Kyle Orton and FB J.D. Runnels are inactive for Week 6 at Arizona.
Analysis: Only Ogunleye is worth using in IDP Fantasy leagues and Bradley in larger formats. Avoid all of the others.
News: The Bears defense totaled three sacks, three interceptions, a forced fumble and two fumble recoveries while holding the Buffalo Bills to seven points and 173 total yards in Week 5.
Analysis: The Bears defense continues to be impressive and usable as a must-start unit every week for Fantasy owners. Keep them active when they play at Arizona on Monday night in Week 6.
News: According to the Arlington Heights Daily Herald, Bears DE Adewale Ogunleye (hamstring) practiced on Friday for the first time all week. The Bears expect him to be ready for Sunday's game against Buffalo. “We feel we should have most of our team ready to play,’’ coach Lovie Smith said.
Analysis: Ogunleye should be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy DL when healthy. Monitor his status leading up to kickoff if you need him for your Fantasy team. The Bears defense might take a slight hit if he is not ready to play, but they are still a No. 1 Fantasy DST option in Week 5.
News: The Bears DST allowed just six points in Week 4 against the Seahawks, allowing 230 total net yards in the win. They also had five sacks and a pair of interceptions.
Analysis: The Bears DST is a must-start in all Fantasy leagues, especially for a favorable matchup in Week 5 against the Bills.
News: The Chicago Bears placed rookie linebacker Jamar Williams on injured reserve Tuesday and signed linebacker Rod Wilson from the practice squad.
Analysis: Neither of the two players make any difference in the Fantasy value of the Bears DST. They remain a must-start in all leagues for Week 4 against the Seahawks.
News: The Bears defense was punishing against the Vikings, though you wouldn't think it by looking at the box score: One sack, zero interceptions, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries in Week 3 play. The Bears did hold the Vikings to 16 points, 194 passing yards and 97 rush yards.
Analysis: The Bears defense will be in for a huge test against Shaun Alexander and the Seahawks in Week 4. Bench them? Unless you have another awesome defense with a sweet matchup, don't even think about it.
9/21/2006
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Best has yet to come for Bears
News: Bears DE Adewale Ogunleye shook his head and rattled off the list Wednesday: missed assignments, failure to plug gaps, blitzes that were stopped. He saw mistakes and he saw no reason to be satisfied, even though the Chicago Bears have allowed just seven points. "Everybody is realizing we have not played our best game," said Ogunleye.
Analysis: That last comment from Ogunleye is a scary statement seeing how the Bears defense has been playing lights out. There is no reason not to keep the Bears DST active as long as they continue to dominate games.
News: The Bears defense held the Lions to seven points and 46 yards rushing in Week 2, racking up a total of six sacks and three forced fumbles.
Analysis: Owners who have the Bears defense should be pleased, but be aware that they will be in for a dogfight in Week 3 at Minnesota. Don't bench them, of course, but don't expect another dominant game (or as dominant, we should say).
9/11/2006
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Bears D pitches a shutout
News: The Bears did not allow a single point in their Week 1 win at Lambeau Field. It was the first time since 1991 that an opponent shut out the Packers at the stadium. They allowed just 267 yards and made two interceptions while sacking Brett Favre three times. Devin Hester also returned a punt 84 yards for a score.
Analysis: The highly touted defensive unit got off on the right foot. A matchup against the lowly Packers didn't hurt, either. Consider the Bears an elite defensive Fantasy unit and continue to start them in all leagues for their Week 2 matchup vs. Detroit.
9/5/2006
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Bears DST ready to rumble
News: The Bears defense has played well for the most part, but it has also suffered unexpected mental and physical lapses in addition to potentially serious injuries to strong safety Mike Brown (Achilles) and end Alex Brown (separated shoulder). Defensive tackles Ian Scott (knee) and Tank Johnson (quad) didn't play until the final preseason game. But the Bears are expected to be close to full strength by the start of the regular season, and they appear to be clearly superior to the rest of a mediocre division. And adding a new wrinkle to the unit, rookie KR/PR Devin Hester averaged 22.8 yards per punt return and 21.8 yards per kick return in the preseason.
Analysis: Without question, the Bears DST should be used on a weekly basis regardless of the opponent unless they start to deteriorate as the year goes on. For Week 1, they are a must-start top-notch option against the Packers and their mostly inexperienced offensive line.
8/29/2006
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DL Dvoracek out for the year
News: The Chicago Bears placed DL Dusty Dvoracek on injured reserve on Monday due to a foot injury.
Analysis: The former Oklahoma product is out for the season. The Bears DST remains a top selection in all Fantasy leagues heading into the 2006 season despite his absence.
8/19/2006
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LB Urlacher has INT for TD
News: LB Brian Urlacher returned a Philip Rivers interception back 64 yards for a touchdown in Friday's preseason game against the Chargers. WR Rashied Davis also tallied a 100-yard kickoff return for touchdown. In injury news, S Mike Brown (Achilles') was inactive for Friday's game and is out indefinitely.
Analysis: The Bears DST is still a strong unit, but losing Brown and replacing him with Todd Johnson could lessen their strength against the run. Continue to rank the Bears towards the top of all Fantasy DSTs, worth a middle- to late-round pick depending on league scoring and how many teams are involved.
8/16/2006
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Bears lose safety Mike Brown
News: Bears SS Mike Brown is out indefinitely with a "twinge" in his right Achilles' tendon suffered during the team's game against San Francisco on Friday. Brown would only say that he expects to be ready for the Sept. 10 season opener. "We hope that it's minor, but whenever you don't have one of your best players on the field, there's concern," Bears coach Lovie Smith said. "But hopefully he'll be back on the field before long."
Analysis: The Bears DST is still a strong unit, but losing him and replacing him with Todd Johnson could lessen their strength against the run. Continue to rank the Bears towards the top of all Fantasy DSTs, worth a middle- to late-round pick depending on league scoring and how many teams are involved.
8/14/2006
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OLB Stay returns to practice
News: Dwayne Stay returned to Bears practice on Sunday, after missing more than a week with a hamstring injury, according to the team's official website.
Analysis: Stay was recently converted from safety to outside linebacker. He remains deep on their depth charts, no matter where he plays, so don't concern yourself with him in IDP leagues. Regardless if Vasher secures a starting spot or not, the Bears DST will be a Top 10 Fantasy unit in 2006.
8/13/2006
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CB Vasher injured against Niners
News: CB Nathan Vasher, competing for a starting job in 2006, was knocked out of Friday's preseason game at San Francisco. However, his injury is not considered serious, as he just had his wind knocked out.
Analysis: Regardless if Vasher secures a starting spot or not, the Bears DST will be a Top 10 Fantasy unit in 2006.
6/29/2006
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Hillenmeyer to stay in Chicago
News: The Bears have signed LB Hunter Hillenmeyer to a five-year contract extension through 2011. Hillenmeyer had 71 total tackles in 2005 with a sack and an interception.
Analysis: Hillenmeyer has developed into a solid starter for the Bears, who should be effective defensively this season. Consider them a bona fide No. 1 Fantasy DST option for 2006.
5/1/2006
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Bears focus on D in draft
News: The Bears spent all but two of their 2006 draft choices on defense, going with CB Danieal Manning (2nd round), CB/KR Devin Hester (2nd round), DT Dusty Dvoracek (3rd round), LB Jamar Williams (4th round) and DE Mark Anderson (5th round).
Analysis: Manning and Dvoracek could pay dividends on defense while Hester will work on special teams more than defense. The Bears DST is still one of the best, if not the best, in Fantasy leagues heading into 2006.
4/24/2006
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CB Manning joins Bears
News: The Panthers have rejected the offer sheet Ricky Manning signed with the Bears, and the cornerback will be with the Bears. Manning was arrested for assault over the weekend for an altercation outside a Los Angeles-area Denny's.
Analysis: Manning allows the Bears to move Charles Tillman to safety. He will keep the Bears defense dominant, though he won't confuse anybody for a shutdown corner. The Bears DST is still one of the best, if not the best, in Fantasy leagues.
1/17/2006
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Bears get 34 takeaways
News: The Bears DST tallied 34 takeaways (24 interceptions), along with 41 sacks and five total scores on defense and special teams.
Analysis: Count Chicago as the best Fantasy DST heading into the 2006 season.
1/10/2006
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Bears DST to face Carolina
News: The NFC North champion Chicago Bears host the Carolina Panthers in Sunday's Divisional Round. The Bears defense allowed 238 total yards and three points against the Panthers back on Nov. 20.
Analysis: This NFC battle should be a low-scoring affair, so look for the Bears DST to produce nice totals for owners in postseason leagues.
12/25/2005
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Bears D a gold mine
News: The Bears DST dominated for most of their game at Green Bay in Week 16. Not only did they intercept Brett Favre four times, but they returned one of them for a score. They also had two sacks of Favre.
Analysis: The Bears have clinched the No. 2 seed, so they may not use their starters much in Week 17 at Minnesota. Still, the DST should be a decent option in the game, and will be a premier unit to own in 2006.
12/25/2005
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Bears D missing starters
News: Bears defensive starters FS Mike Brown, LB Hunter Hillenmeyer and DT Ian Scott are all inactive for the Week 16 game at Green Bay.
Analysis: The Bears DST should still limit the Packers to 21 points or less.
12/22/2005
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Mike Brown questionable
News: Mike Brown (calf) is questionable for Week 16 at Green Bay. S Chris Harris (knee), LB Hunter Hillenmeyer (thumb), S Todd Johnson (hip) and DT Ian Scott (hamstring) are also questionable. LB Brian Urlacher (finger) is probable.
Analysis: The Bears DST remains a fantastic option in all leagues.
12/22/2005
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Urlacher should be ready
News: Brian Urlacher (finger) is probable for Week 16 at Green Bay.
Analysis: The Bears DST will continue to be an excellent start in Week 16 at Green Bay.
12/20/2005
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Mike Brown ready to return
News: According to the Chicago Sun Times, Bears safety Mike Brown (calf) is expected to return this week.
Analysis: The Bears DST will continue to be an excellent start in Week 16 at Green Bay.
12/20/2005
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Mike Brown ready to return
News: According to the Chicago Sun Times, Bears safety Mike Brown (calf) is expected to return this week.
Analysis: The Bears DST will continue to be an excellent start in Week 16 at Green Bay.
12/19/2005
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Bears defense at it again
News: Chicago's dominant defense did the job again in a Week 15 win over the Falcons, allowing just 12 first downs, 231 yards of total offense and just three points. The unit also forced two INTs and sacked Michael Vick twice.
Analysis: The Bears continue to sport the most productive defense in the league and should continue to wreak havoc in Week 16 at Green Bay.
12/15/2005
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S Mike Brown doubtful
News: S Mike Brown (calf) and S Chris Harris (knee) are both listed as doubtful for Week 15 against Atlanta. LB Hunter Hillenmeyer (thumb), S Todd Johnson (hip) and DT Ian Scott (ankle) are all questionable.
Analysis: Despite these injuries, the Bears DST is still a recommended choice in all leagues.
12/11/2005
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Bears DST shut out
News: The Bears defense was shut down at Pittsburgh in Week 14, recording no sacks, interceptions or fumbles while allowing 21 points.
Analysis: The Bears DST should remain a strong unit to use vs. Atlanta in Week 15.
12/11/2005
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Mike Brown inactive
News: Bears FS Mike Brown (calf) will miss Week 14 at Pittsburgh. He did not make the trip with the team. Furthermore, rookie SS Chris Harris won't also be in the lineup.
Analysis: Mike Green will play at free safety while Todd Johnson will play strong safety. This will surely be noticed by the Steelers (who had Ben Roethlisberger toss for over 380 yards last week). Expect the Bears to give up more passing yards than usual ... if the weather is agreeable.
12/7/2005
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Bears DST banged up
News: Jerry Azumah (hip), Nathan Vasher (knee) and Brian Urlacher (finger) are all listed as probable for Week 14 at Pittsburgh.
Analysis: They should all suit up and the Bears DST are a solid play at the Steelers.
12/4/2005
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Huge game for Bears DST
News: The Bears DST held Green Bay to a touchdown, scoring on an interception return and picking off a second pass, sacking Brett Favre twice and recovering two fumbles. "All the years I've played against them, I think defensively this is as well as I've seen them play," said Favre after the game.
Analysis: The Monsters of the Midway are back! However, they will face a stiff test against the Steelers in Pittsburgh in Week 14. Expect a low-scoring game with lots of defense, and that means a start next week.
News: The Bears DST had four sacks, including a game-ending sack, along with a forced fumble and two fumble recoveries while holding the Bucs to 10 points in Week 12.
Analysis: The Bears DST is one of the best in the game, especially if you get points for points against and yards against. They host Green Bay in Week 13.
11/20/2005
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Bears D declaws Panthers
News: The Bears DST did a number on the offensively stout Panthers, holding them to three points, picking off Jake Delhomme twice and sacking him eight times.
Analysis: The Bears defense is one of the best in Fantasy Football -- use them every week. They play at Tampa Bay in Week 12.
11/13/2005
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Bears DST dominates
News: The Bears defense totaled a sack and a forced fumble, holding the 49ers to nine points in their blustery Week 10 game. In addition, CB Nathan Vasher returned a missed field goal 108 yards for a touchdown, setting a record for the longest play in NFL history.
Analysis: The defense and special-teams TD cements Chicago as a must-start unit for the rest of the Fantasy season. Owners should not sit them vs. Carolina in Week 11.
11/13/2005
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Vasher, Bears sets NFL record
News: Bears CB Nathan Vasher returned a missed field goal 108 yards for a touchdown vs. San Francisco in Week 10. The return is an NFL record for the longest return.
Analysis: The Bears defense has held the Niners to three points through the first half, so the entire Bears DST is already worth a lot Fantasywise.
11/6/2005
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Bears DST allows 17 points
News: The Bears defense allowed 17 points and 283 total net yards in Week 9 against the Saints. They also rolled up three sacks, two interceptions and two fumble recoveries.
Analysis: The Bears defense should be a solid play against the 49ers in Week 10.
10/30/2005
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Bears defense wins game at DET
News: The Bears DST racked up two sacks and a game-clinching interception return for a touchdown by CB Charles Tillman. The Lions were held to 13 points.
Analysis: Chicago's defense will be tested when they play at New Orleans (in Baton Rouge) in Week 9.
10/23/2005
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Bears D dominates Ravens
News: Chicago's DST unit held the Ravens to six points in Week 7, racked up four sacks and held the Ravens to 66 rushing yards (34 by Jamal Lewis).
Analysis: The Bears DST is a must-start nearly every week, including next week when the Lions play at Detroit in Week 8.
10/16/2005
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Bears D stuffs Vikings
News: The Chicago defense played to their potential in Week 6 against the Vikings, sacking Daunte Culpepper four times, picking him off twice and holding Minnesota to three points.
Analysis: The Bears DST should definitely start every week, especially vs. Baltimore in Week 7.
10/9/2005
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Bears D gives up 20 pts
News: The Chicago defense looked good for three and a half quarters until Trent Dilfer took to the air and hit WR Antonio Bryant twice with long touchdown passes at Cleveland in Week 5. They did pick him off twice and record three sacks.
Analysis: The Chicago DST could have their hands full with the Vikings at home in Week 6. Then again, if the Vikings come out sloppy, they could have their hands full of Daunte Culpepper interceptions. This is not as horrible of a start as you may think.
10/6/2005
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Bears nicked up: Brown probable
News: The Bears defense has some nicks going into Week 5 at Cleveland. LB Joe Odom (ankle) is out, while CB Jerry Azumah (hip), K Doug Brien (back) and S Mike Brown (hamstring) are probable.
Analysis: None of these should keep you from starting the Bears defense in Fantasy leagues. Brown is the key to everything as he is the type of LB who is a threat to score in any game -- especially in one he starts against an error-prone QB like Trent Dilfer.
10/4/2005
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Bears D ready for Cleveland
News: Carson Palmer and Chad Johnson gashed the secondary, but otherwise the Bears have been impressive, picking off six passes and ranking No. 5 in passing yards allowed. They have seven sacks, but only two have come from the linemen, which is a concern. They were No. 7 in rushing yards and No. 4 in average gain per rush allowed after their first three games. Clinton Portis and the Redskins dented them for 164 yards (on 40 carries) in the season opener, but since then, the Bears have allowed 112 rushing yards on 52 carries.
Analysis: The Bears have the potential to be an outstanding Fantasy unit and are a strong start this week as they are at Cleveland.
9/25/2005
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Bears DST doesn't shine
News: Chicago's DST unit didn't produce well against the Bengals in Week 3, sacking Carson Palmer a total of one time (Adewale Ogunleye).
Analysis: The Bears are off in Week 4, but the DST is a nice option once again at Cleveland in Week 5.
9/25/2005
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Ogunleye will start for CHI
News: ChicagoBears.com reports that DE Adewale Ogunleye (ankle) will start in Week 3 vs. Cincinnati. LB Joe Odom will sit.
Analysis: Even with Ogunleye in the lineup, the Bears face a big challenge in the Bengals in Week 3. If you can get a better matchup with another DST, go for it.
9/20/2005
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Ogunleye expected to return
News: The Tribune reports Adewale Ogunleye underwent an MRI on his sprained ankle earlier this week. "We expect him to be on the field this week," head coach Lovie Smith said.
Analysis: The Bears DST was solid last week in a win over Detroit, but it faces a tougher test this week against the Cincinnati Bengals.
9/18/2005
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Bears DST thrashes Detroit
News: The Bears DST was a real good start in Week 2 against the Lions. They returned a punt for a touchdown, intercepted a Joey Harrington pass for a score, picked off four other passes, held Detroit to six points and recorded two sacks (both by Brian Urlacher). Bears DE Adewale Ogunleye did leave the game with an ankle injury.
Analysis: This is about as perfect a performance you'll see from the Bears this season, but they'll do it again at some point. They will have their hands full in Week 3 though when they host the Bengals.
9/18/2005
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Bears DST slashes Lions
News: In the first half of Week 2, the Chicago defense and special teams scored two touchdowns -- one on a punt return, one off a Joey Harrington interception.
Analysis: While the stats are awfully gaudy, you can expect a lesser version of this every week the Bears play an opponent with an inept offense.
9/12/2005
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Bears run defense must improve
News: ChicagoBears.com reports the team's defense must improve against the run if they want to go anywhere this season. They surrendered 164 rushing yards to Washington in Week 1. "We couldn't stop the run and we couldn't get off the field on third down," S Mike Brown said. "It's extremely disappointing. I feel like we let our team down today and hopefully it won't happen again."
Analysis: The Bears D should have better luck in Week 2 vs. Detroit.
9/11/2005
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Bears force three fumbles
News: The Chicago DST held the Redskins to nine points, forcing three fumbles, recording three sacks and intercepting Patrick Ramsey. LB Brian Urlacher and FS Mike Brown tied for the team high with nine total tackles.
Analysis: The Bears will have their hands full next week vs. the Lions, but could still keep them out of the end zone.
8/9/2005
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Bears' first-string D strong
News: The Bears' first-string defense looked good against Miami, holding them to only three points in their first preseason game. Adewale Ogunleye and Brian Urlacher each recorded a sack, with Ogunleye and LB Lance Briggs totaling four tackles each. They also pressured QB A.J. Feeley often.
Analysis: The Bears DST should be a starting unit in Fantasy this season, albeit in the bottom dozen of the top units in the league.
8/3/2005
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Bears CB Azumah out 3-4 weeks
News: Bears CB Jerry Azumah will miss most of the preseason after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his hip Aug. 3 in Denver, reports ChicagoBears.com. "Jerry Azumah had a successful scope done on his hip this morning," head coach Lovie Smith said. "They went in and cleaned it out. That's basically all that they needed to do. We expect him to be back in three or four weeks, in plenty of time for the first game, so we're excited about that."
Analysis: Azumah, who is in a contract year, was expected to be a key cog in the Bears' secondary and special teams unit. The Bears are very deep defensively, but Azumah was expected to be an impact player for them in 2005. Monitor this situation, especially if you were going to take a chance on the Bears DST.
8/3/2005
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Bears' Azumah to get hip help
News: Chicago Bears CB Jerry Azumah left training camp Aug. 2 to seek a second medical opinion on his sore hip in Denver. "We let him rest it first to see if that would take care of it. It didn't," Bears coach Lovie Smith said. "It's something that's been there for a while." Azumah had missed all but one practice.
Analysis: Azumah, who is in a contract year, was expected to be a key cog in the Bears' secondary and special teams unit. The Bears are very deep defensively, but Azumah was expected to be an impact player for them in 2005. Monitor this situation, especially if you were going to take a chance on the Bears DST.
7/29/2005
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Bears' Urlacher, Brown healthy
News: According to published reports, both Brian Urlacher and Mike Brown are fully healed from their 2004 injuries. Both should be regular contributors to the Chicago defense this season.
Analysis: The Bears DST unit is one worth watching this preseason. They could even be one of the top units in Fantasy Football this year. Monitor them and consider them a potential-filled No. 2 Fantasy DST.
7/26/2005
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Mike Brown looks good
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports Mike Brown (Achilles') has looked "better than ever" in Bears camp.
Analysis: The Bears DST has a chance to be a valuable option in drafts. Consider it in the late rounds.
7/25/2005
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Big season for Ogunleye?
News: The Daily Herald reports head coach Lovie Smith expects Adewale Ogunleye to have a solid season. "I think as you talk about defensive ends, you have to start with double digits with the sack total," Smith said. "Wale has had about 15 or so. We’re expecting those types of numbers from him."
Analysis: The Bears DST has a ton of potential and would be an even greater bargain should Ogunleye return to form this season.
5:47 PM
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Bears release CB McQuarters
News: The Bears official website reports the team has released R.W. McQuarters. "After exploring trade opportunities with R.W., we felt it was in everyone's best interest to release him at this time," said general manager Jerry Angelo. "We respect and appreciate his accomplishments as a Bear and wish him well."
Analysis: McQuarters, who recorded 67 total tackles and two interceptions last season, should find a new team in the near future.
News: Brian Urlacher (hamstring) is out for the season.
Analysis: Hunter Hillenmeyer will finish the season at middle linebacker for Chicago.
12/20/2004
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Worrell, Odom injured
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports S Cameron Worrell sprained his right ankle on the opening kickoff and did not return in Week 15.
Analysis: In other news, LB Joe Odom went out with a strained neck.
12/16/2004
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LB Brian Urlacher OUT
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports Urlacher (hamstring) is out for Week 15. He also might miss the rest of the season.
Analysis: Hunter Hillenmeyer will replace Urlacher at middle linebacker, with Marcus Reese moving to the strong-side position.
12/13/2004
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Urlacher injures hamstring
News: According to the Chicago Tribune, Bears coach Lovie Smith said linebacker Brian Urlacher will have an MRI on his left hamstring and his status for the rest of the year is in doubt. "We're going to see. I think it will take care of itself as how bad the hamstring injury is," Smith said. "If guys are healthy they are part of the team, and if not, you have to move on. We played without Brian quite a few games this year, so it's not like a shock to our system."
Analysis: Urlacher was injured in Week 14 at Jacksonville. The Bears D/ST should only be considered in leagues with at least 12 teams. They face Houston in Week 15.
12/12/2004
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Bears can't stop Byron
News: Chicago gave up 332 total yards in Week 14 at Jacksonville. They managed to intercept Byron Leftwich once but could not sack him as the Jacksonville QB passed for 242 yards and two touchdowns.
Analysis: The Bears D/ST should be used in leagues with at least 12 teams. The Bears host the Texans in Week 15.
12/3/2004
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McQuarters moves to FS
News: The Bears official website reports the team has moved CB R.W. McQuarters to free safety now that CB Charles Tillman is back. "The thing that we look at is that it would be very difficult to take a playmaker off the football field, especially a guy who has played as well as he has," said defensive coordinator Ron Rivera. "He has the ability to play several positions for us and this is obviously one of them."
Analysis: The Bears DST is a decent option in leagues with 12-plus teams for Week 13.
12/3/2004
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Urlacher in doubt?
News: The Chicago Tribune reports LB Brian Urlacher (leg) practiced Thursday for the second straight day, but his status for Week 13 is in doubt. "I really don't know," Urlacher said. "Next week is pretty much for sure, but I don't really know about Sunday."
Analysis: In other news, DE Adewale Ogunleye aggravated his strained leg muscle and has been downgraded to questionable.
12/2/2004
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LB Urlacher to start?
News: The Arlington Heights Daily Herald reports Brian Urlacher practiced at full speed Wednesday just 17 days after suffering a calf injury that required surgery. He was released from the hospital just 12 days ago, but should be back in the starting lineup for Week 13.
Analysis: In other news, CB Charles "Peanut" Tillman is slated to return to the starting lineup for the first time since Week 2, when he suffered a chip fracture of the tibial plateau just under his right knee.
11/25/2004
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CB McQuarters scores TD
News: The Bears DST allowed 21 points with one touchdown (CB R.W. McQuarters), two sacks and two interceptions in Thursday's loss to Dallas.
Analysis: This unit is a decent option in leagues with 12-plus teams.
11/21/2004
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Bears allow 41 points
News: The Bears DST surrendered 41 points with one interception in Sunday's loss to Indianapolis.
Analysis: This unit is a decent option in leagues with 12-plus leagues at Dallas.
11/19/2004
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Urlacher has surgery
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports LB Brian Urlacher had surgery this week to relieve pressure caused by internal bleeding in his lower left leg. He remained hospitalized Thursday as doctors make sure an infection doesn't break out.
Analysis: In other news, S Bobby Gray (groin, questionable) and LB Lance Briggs (foot, questionable) took part in Thursday's practice. CB Charles Tillman (knee, doubtful) continued to do non-contact work.
11/18/2004
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LB Briggs to start
News: The Arlington Heights Daily Herald reports Lance Briggs (foot) practiced Wednesday and should start in Week 11.
Analysis: Briggs will need to continue his high level of play with LB Brian Urlacher (leg) out.
11/16/2004
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Marshall goes on I-L
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports the Bears have placed CB Alfonso Marshall (knee) on injured reserve. The team promoted LB Jeremy Cain from the practice squad.
Analysis: In other news, S Bobby Gray (groin) is expected to return in Week 11. LB Charles Tillman (knee) is out.
11/15/2004
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Urlacher out four to six weeks
News: Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher will miss four to six weeks with a lower left leg injury sustained in Week 10 against the Tennessee Titans. Hunter Hillenmeyer will start at middle linebacker in his absence.
Analysis: Urlacher missed all of the preseason and two regular-season games with a hamstring problem. The Bears host the Colts in Week 11.
11/14/2004
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Bears have huge day
News: Michael Haynes intercepted a Billy Volek pass and returned it 45 yards for a touchdown just before halftime, and R.W. McQuarters added a 75-yard punt return for a TD in the third quarter in Week 10 against Tennessee. The Bears also ended the game by getting a safety.
Analysis: Chicago is becoming a top option as a Fantasy D/ST. The Bears host the Colts in Week 11.
11/14/2004
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Twice as nice for Bears
News: The Bears D/ST has scored two touchdowns in Week 10 against Tennessee.Michael Haynes has a 45-yard interception return and R.W. McQuarters has a 75-yard punt return, both for touchdowns.
Analysis: The Bears seem to be gaining Fantasy value each and every week.
11/12/2004
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DT Harris OK
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports DT Tommie Harris (illness) was removed from the injury report for Week 10.
Analysis: In other news, DE Adewale Ogunleye (leg) and LB Brian Urlacher (right hamstring) were held out of Thursday's practice as a precaution. Both are probable.
11/10/2004
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Bears defense injury update
News: The Bears expect their two best defensive players to be in action in Week 10 at Tennessee. LB Brian Urlacher (hamstring) and DE Adewale Ogunleye (leg) were both able to practice on Wednesday and are listed as probable.
Analysis: In other news, CB Todd McMillon missed practice on Wednesday and is listed as probable. CB Charles Tillman is out due to a knee injury, although he might be able to practice soon. LB Marcus Resese has been ruled out for the game due to a foot injury. S Bobby Gray is also nursing a groin injury and is doubtful. The Bears are not a recommended Fantasy defense for Week 10.
11/9/2004
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Reese could be out
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports LB Marcus Reese might miss a week or two with an injured right foot.
Analysis: In other news, S Bobby Gray could return this week from a pulled left groin.
11/7/2004
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Bears defense solid in Week 9
News: The Chicago Bears defense was sharp in Week 9 at N.Y. Giants. DE Alex Brown led the way with four sacks. DE Adewale Ogunleye (leg) was able to suit up and he had three solo tackles, one sack and one pass defensed.
Analysis: The team also had LB Brian Urlacher (hamstring) patrolling the middle of the field. He had six solo tackles, one assist and one pass defensed. The Bears defender will look to contain Steve McNair (sternum) and Chris Brown in Week 10 in Nashville.
11/5/2004
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Ogunleye misses practice
News: The Arlington Heights Daily Herald reports Adewale Ogunleye (leg) missed practice on Thursday.
Analysis: He remains questionable for Week 9.
11/4/2004
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Ogunleye remains questionable
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports DE Adewale Ogunleye (leg) returned to practice Wednesday for the first time in two weeks, but is questionable for Week 9. S Bobby Gray (groin) is doubtful.
Analysis: In other news, LB Brian Urlacher (hamstring) and CB Todd McMillon (back) are probable.
11/2/2004
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Urlacher dismisses report
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports LB Brian Urlacher did not injure his left hamstring, which had been reported.
Analysis: In other news, DE Adewale Ogunleye (leg) is expected to return in Week 9.
11/1/2004
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Bears defense stifles 49ers
News: Despite playing with DE Adewale Ogunleye (leg), the Bears were able to limit the 49ers offense to six points and 162 total net yards in Week 8.
Analysis: DB Nathan Vasher also had a 71-yard interception return for score in the fourth quarter to seal the victory. The Bears will head to the Meadowlands in Week 9 to try and contain the N.Y. Giants and Tiki Barber.
10/29/2004
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Ogunleye gets second opinion
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports DE Adewale Ogunleye (leg) received a second medical opinion that confirmed he has a muscle strain. Ogunleye claimed to have a small ligament tear. He is questionable for Week 8.
Analysis: In other news, DT Alfonso Boone (knee) was upgraded to probable. LB Brian Urlacher (hamstring) sat out Thursday as a precaution, but will start against the 49ers.
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports DE Adewale Ogunleye is questionable with a slight ligament tear in his lower right leg. Coach Lovie Smith declined to elaborate on the situation and Ogunleye did not dress for Wednesday's practice.
Analysis: In other news, DT Alfonso Boone (knee) is also questionable for Week 8, but he practiced. S Bobby Gray (groin) is doubtful and will not play.
10/24/2004
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Bears can't stop Bucs
News: Chicago could not stop Brian Griese and the Tampa offense in Week 7, losing 19-7.
Analysis: It didn't help that the Bears got very little in the way of offensive support. Chicago has no Fantasy appeal at this point. The Bears host the 49ers in Week 8.
10/22/2004
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LB Brian Urlacher probable
News: According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Urlacher (hamstring) returned to practice on Thursday.
Analysis: He is probable for Week 7.
10/21/2004
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LB Brian Urlacher OK
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports Urlacher (hamstring) did not reinjure himself in Week 6, but was held out of practice Wednesday as a precaution. Coach Lovie Smith said Urlacher might take Wednesdays off for the foreseeable future to give him ample rest with the hope he will not have a recurrence.
Analysis: In other news, DE Adewale Ogunleye did not sprain his ankle, but the injury to his lower right leg makes it unlikely he will play in Week 7. Ogunleye is listed as questionable, as is DT Alfonso Boone, who has returned to practice following arthroscopic surgery on his right knee.
10/19/2004
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DE Ogunleye doubtful
News: The Arlington Heights Daily Herald reports DE Adewale Ogunleye is doubtful for Week 7 with a sprained ankle.
Analysis: In other news, S Bobby Gray is expected to miss the game at Tampa Bay with a strained groin.
10/18/2004
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DL Ogunleye sprains ankle
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Adewale Ogunleye sprained his right ankle on the first play of the third quarter and did not return against Washington Sunday. He left the locker room with a walking boot.
Analysis: The Bears DST needs Ogunleye for quarterback pressures, but even with him healthy, this unit is only a bye-week replacement in Fantasy leagues.
10/17/2004
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LB Urlacher, DB Azumah return
News: The Chicago Bears welcomed back LB Brian Urlacher (hamstring) and DB Jerry Azumah (neck) to the lineup in Week 6 against the Redskins. Despite Urlacher's return, Washington's Clinton Portis has already eclipsed the 100-yard mark.
Analysis: Azumah was a difference maker, returning an interception 70 yards for Chicago's only score of the first half. The Bears defense is still only worth using when your primary defense has a difficult matchup or bye week.
10/15/2004
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Bears won't limit LB Urlacher
News: The Arlington Heights Daily Herald reports the Bears won't limit Brian Urlacher (hamstring) in Week 6. "For some reason, he doesn't go for that spot approach that we tried to take with him," coach Lovie Smith said," and I tend to listen to him a little bit."
Analysis: In other news, CB Jerry Azumah (neck) was upgraded from questionable to probable.
10/14/2004
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LB Urlacher listed as probable
News: According to the Arlington Heights Daily Herald, Brian Urlacher (hamstring) is probable for Week 6.
Analysis: In other news, CB Jerry Azumah (neck) practiced on Wednesday but remains questionable.
10/13/2004
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Briggs leads Bears' charge
News: The Bears will host the Redskins in a Week 6 matchup. Chicago is allowing over 371 offensive yards per game this year. LB Lance Briggs is currently leading the team with 32 tackles.
Analysis: The Redskins are averaging only 273 yards per game through five weeks. They have reached the end zone just seven times on offense. The Bears are a decent Fantasy option for this favorable matchup.
10/7/2004
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Azumah close to return
News: According to the Chicago Sun-Times, CB Jerry Azumah (neck) returned to practice and is on schedule to possibly play a limited role against the Washington Redskins on Oct. 17.
Analysis: In other news, coach Lovie Smith said he also hopes to have LB Brian Urlacher (hamstring) back following the bye week.
10/3/2004
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Bears can't contain T.O.
News: Chicago couldn't contain Terrell Owens and the Eagles in a Week 4 loss to Philadelphia.
Analysis: T.O. had eight catches for 110 yards and a touchdown. The Bears have little Fantasy value. Chicago has a bye in Week 5 and faces Washington in Week 6.
10/3/2004
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LB Urlacher is out
News: According to reports, Brian Urlacher (hamstring) is out for Week 4.
Analysis: LB Hunter Hillenmeyer will start in his place.
10/1/2004
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LB Urlacher likely out
News: According to reports, Brian Urlacher (hamstring) has been downgraded to doubtful for Week 4.
Analysis: LB Hunter Hillenmeyer would start in his place.
9/30/2004
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Urlacher likely out
News: According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Brian Urlacher (hamstring) was held out of practice on Wednesday. Coach Lovie Smith said the linebacker would not be back on the field before the team is certain he is fully healed.
Analysis: Urlacher remains questionable on the injury report, it is unlikely he will play in Week 4.
9/28/2004
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More rest for LB Urlacher?
News: According to the Chicago Sun-Times, the Bears might sit LB Brian Urlacher against Philadelphia with the hope that two weeks of rest will ensure he does not have any more problems with the right hamstring he pulled in training camp. "We won't take a chance with Brian," coach Lovie Smith said. '"When we put him back out on the field it will be for the long haul. It's not a quick hit that we're working with. We didn't even chance it [Sunday]. We'll take the same approach with him this week."
Analysis: LB Hunter Hillenmeyer will start once again should Urlacher remain out.
9/26/2004
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LB Brian Urlacher out
News: According to reports, Brian Urlacher (hamstring) is out for Week 3.
Analysis: LB Hunter Hillenmeyer will start in his absence.
9/26/2004
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LB Brian Urlacher questionable
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Urlacher (hamstring) participated in Saturday's walk-through.
Analysis: Urlacher said his hamstring would not keep him out for Week 3, but he's still officially listed as questionable.
9/24/2004
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LB Urlacher injures hamstring
News: Brian Urlacher was held out of Friday's practice due to an aggravated hamstring. "When you're dealing with those hamstrings, you never know for sure exactly how it will be," coach Lovie Smith said.
Analysis: Urlacher is listed as questionable for Week 3.
9/24/2004
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DT Tank Johnson questionable
News: The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports the Bears added DT Johnson (groin) to their injury report. He is listed as questionable for Week 3.
Analysis: In other news, LB Marcus Reese (hamstring) was downgraded to questionable.
9/23/2004
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LB Marcus Reese probable
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports Reese (hamstring) worked some with the first team on Wednesday and is in the mix for playing time in Week 3. LB Joe Odom had a strong game with nine tackles at Green Bay, but the coaching staff has shown a preference for Reese.
Analysis: In other news, DT Alfonso Boone will miss three to five weeks after arthroscopic surgery to clean out debris from his right knee. Rookie Tank Johnson will start in his absence.
9/21/2004
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DT Boone out two weeks
News: According to the Chicago Sun-Times, DT Alfonso Boone is out two to four weeks with a sprained knee. Chicago will start rookies Tommie Harris and Tank Johnson at defensive tackle in Week 3.
Analysis: In other news, Charles Tillman (knee) could be out two months.
9/19/2004
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Bears silence Pack
News: The Bears held the Packers to just 10 points in a 21-10 in Week 2 at Lambeau Field. The day was highlighted by a 95-yard fumble return by Mike Brown for a touchdown.
Analysis: As impressive as they were, the Bears are only worth using when the matchup calls for it. Chicago plays at the Minnesota Vikings in Week 3 and that certainly doesn't look like an appealing situation for the Bears.
9/19/2004
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CB McQuarters to start
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports the Bears have removed R.W. McQuarters (hamstring) from their injury report for Week 2.
Analysis: McQuarters is expected to handle punt return duties as well as his cornerback role.
9/16/2004
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CB McQuarters questionable
News: According to the Arlington Heights Daily Herald, R.W. McQuarters was held out of Wednesday's practice with a mild ankle sprain. He is listed as questionable for Week 2.
Analysis: In other news, LB Marcus Reese (hamstring) is out for Week 2 but has returned to practice in a limited capacity. Reese was starting on the strong side before he was hurt. When he returns, he could reclaim the job from Joe Odom.
News: The Chicago defense kept the Lions in check in Week 1 for most of the game. However, they allowed Detroit quarterback Joey Harrington to throw a touchdown pass in the 4th quarter to beat them 20-16.
Analysis: The Bears should only be considered in larger leagues and are not an attractive option in Week 2 when they visit the Packers.
9/11/2004
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LB Urlacher now probable
News: According to reports, Brian Urlacher (hamstring) is probable for Week 1.
Analysis: The Bears DST is worth considering in leagues with 14-plus teams.
9/10/2004
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Bears to battle Lions
News: Chicago will take on the offensively-improved Detroit Lions in the Week 1 opener. The two teams split games in each of the past two seasons.
Analysis: Brian Urlacher is expected to be ready for the opener. Chicago is a middle-class Fantasy option. They should be able to contain the Bears rushing attack, but might have difficulties with their passing gameplan.
9/9/2004
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LB Urlacher to start
News: According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Brian Urlacher (hamstring) is expected to start in Week 1.
Analysis: The Bears DST is not worth starting in most Fantasy leagues.
8/31/2004
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LB Urlacher vows to return
News: According to reports, Brian Urlacher (hamstring) vows to be ready for Week 1. "I've never been injured, so I don't know how to react," Urlacher said. "I'm just going to do what they tell me to do and just get ready for Detroit."
Analysis: Urlacher won't play in Friday's preseason finale at Cleveland but will continue to practice.
8/30/2004
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LB Urlacher practices
News: According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Urlacher (hamstring) practiced on Sunday. He participated in some individual drills and did some light team work in the 1-hour, 20-minute practice. "It was good to get No. 54 back out there running the defense," said coach Lovie Smith.
Analysis: Urlacher will be off Monday but will work again Tuesday with the plan to have him ready for the season opener Sept. 12 against the Detroit Lions.
8/27/2004
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Michael Haynes could lose spot
News: According to the Chicago Tribune, it appears the Bears might start Adewale Ogunleye on the left end when he is ready to play and Alex Brown at the right end. That would mean defensive end Michael Haynes will lose his starting spot. "If all goes the way we think it will, that's probably where Mike will be," coach Lovie Smith said.
Analysis: The Bears defensive unit has improved with the addition of Ogunleye. Consider them in the last rounds of Fantasy drafts.
8/25/2004
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Tafoya released, Brown returns
News: According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Tafoya has been released by the Bears. In other news, DE Alex Brown returned from a strained muscle in his right calf on Tuesday and practiced with the second team at right end.
Analysis: With LB Brian Urlacher healing and DE Adewale Ogunleye on the roster, the Bears defense/special teams has some newfound value.
8/24/2004
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Bears lose LB Marcus Reese
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports Reese will miss four to six weeks with a pulled right hamstring. LB Joe Odom is expected to take his place in the playing rotation. In other news, LB Brian Urlacher (hamstring) did some running on the practice field Monday. The Bears remain optimistic he might be able to return for the exhibition finale Sept. 3 at Cleveland.
Analysis: With Urlacher healing and DE Adewale Ogunleye on the roster, the Bears defense/special teams has some newfound value.
8/21/2004
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Bears add Ogunleye
News: According to broadcast reports, the Dolphins have traded DE Adewale Ogunleye to the Bears for WR Marty Booker and a third-round pick next season. The deal will be complete if the Bears can sign Ogunleye to a deal by Saturday night.
Analysis: The Bears DST adds one of the best pass-rushers from last season to their defensive line. Along with Alex Brown, who will probably move over to the right side of the line, offenses will have to get rid of the ball quickly. Move this unit up a handful of spots, but they are still only worth drafting as a backup DST.
8/6/2004
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CB Azumah to have neck surgery
News: Jerry Azumah is expected to miss three to four months after undergoing corrective neck surgery for a herniated disc. An MRI initially showed no damage, but a second round of tests confirmed the injury.
Analysis: Azumah will be replaced by R.W. McQuarters at right cornerback. The Bears, already a shaky defensive unit from a Fantasy perspective, are only worth drafting as a second unit in 14 or 16 team leagues.
7/31/2004
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Urlacher out four to six weeks
News: According to published reports, Brian Urlacher (hamstring) will mis four to six weeks due to his injury. He suffered the injury in practice on Wednesday.
Analysis: Urlacher might be able to return for the team's preseason finale against the Browns on Sept. 3. He is considered questionable for the regular season opener against the Lions.
7/29/2004
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Urlacher suffers injury
News: The team's official website reports Brian Urlacher suffered a hamstring injury in Wednesday's practice. He was able to walk off on his own power to a cart and then was driven off the field. "He got a pretty good pull," general manager Jerry Angelo said. "We'll know more (Thursday). (I'm) not really optimistic that it's going to be something that's going to be a few days."
Analysis: Urlacher is expected to have an MRI on Thursday to determine the severity of the injury. While he might be sidelined about a week to recover, the injury is not expected to keep him from missing any time during the regular season.
7/2/2004
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Bears waive two players
News: The Bears waived LB Lewis Moore and long snapper Brian Pare on Thursday.
Analysis: Neither of the two are useful in Fantasy leagues.
6/20/2004
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Bears to have LB Gildon visit
News: The Chicago Bears plan to bring in free agent LB Jason Gildon for a visit.
Analysis: The Bears are thought to be behind Cincinnati in the pursuit of Gildon due to his past relationship with Bengals' coach Marvin Lewis. If he is added by Chicago, they would have a strong one-two punch with Gildon and Brian Urlacher.
10/7/2003
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Holdman to miss a couple weeks
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Warrick Holdman (ankle) is expected to be out for two weeks.
Analysis: Joe Odom will likely replace Holdman for his first start in Week 6 at New Orleans. Expect the Bears' run defense to drop a notch with this injury.
9/18/2003
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Urlacher won't need surgery
News: The Chicago Sun-Times reports Brian Urlacher will not require surgery on his left thumb. He suffered torn ligaments in his thumb this past Sunday night in Minnesota.
Analysis: Chicago has a bye in Week 3.
7/25/2003
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Bears sign rookie DE
News: Michael Haynes signed a six-year contract with the Bears.
Analysis: Haynes could push for a starting job, and the Bears defense should still be useful when the matchup is favorable.
