With so much heat coming down on the offensive line many fans and media have ignored another problem area for the Chicago Bears. Could they solve some of their issues at tight end with Chris Cooley?
Bears not getting enough out of Kellen Davis in new offense
Everyone was so excited about the new Chicago offense with Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery giving the receivers a new look. Michael Bush came in to back up Matt Forte. Lost in the shuffle of everything was what the team did at tight end. GM Phil Emery bolstered the area with a fourth round draft pick in Evan Rodriguez but his role isn't quite defined yet. Chicago had hope their main starter, fourth-year man Kellen Davis would step up in an offense that would use him far more often than former coördinator Mike Martz. Sadly aside from a touchdown catch late in the loss against Green Bay, Davis has not flourished under new man Mike Tice so far. It isn't a big surprise to a lot of experts who believed the Bears had little more than a group of "Average Joes." However the biggest cause for fans losing patience in Davis is his frequent problems pass blocking. Too often defenders have gotten around him to Jay Cutler and it's not something that will keep a player his job for long. The Bears believe he can still turn the corner but time is running out. Can they do something to give him a push?
Washington Redskins and Oakland Raiders still not grabbing Cooley
While the search for a better left tackle continues, Chicago hasn't explored much on the tight end market. Curiously enough it still has one name on it that might interest a team. A few weeks ago the Washington Redskins parted ways with two-time Pro Bowler Chris Cooley. Injuries and money were the big reason in the decision for the release. Some thought Washington might bring him back at a cheaper price. Cooley hasn't waited by the phone for that call though. Teams around the league could use help at tight end. The Oakland Raiders were rumored to have interest but they haven't bitten so far. At 30 years old he isn't over the hill and if healthy can bring a capable pair of hands to any passing game. Cooley averaged six touchdowns and 700 receiving yards during his early years. He also posted 839 yards in 2010. All signs say if he stays healthy he can become a pain for any defense to handle. Chicago has no one like that at tight end. A one-year deal couldn't do any harm.
Kellen Davis has his shot with the Chicago Bears, but he hasn't exactly seized it. Time isn't on his side anymore. A few more quiet games and things could change in the Windy City. The Washington Redskins didn't want him, but Chris Cooley can still have an effect if allowed.
Photo Credit: Rachel Cooper
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