The 2023 NFL season has undeniably presented challenges for Chicago Bears fans, testing the loyalty and resilience of the Windy City faithful. Despite the rough patches, the holiday season offers a unique opportunity for Bears fans to reflect on the positives amidst the struggles. Here are four reasons to be thankful for as a Bears fan.
Why Bears Fans Should Be Thankful
Justin Fields
Bears quarterback Justin Fields has been the main talk for Chicago Bears and NFL fans ever since he first entered the NFL in 2021. Fields is a ray of hope for the future as the Bears advance through the 2023 season. Thanks to his electric performances, diverse skill set, and ability to adjust under duress, Bears fans have a reason to be excited to watch their team play despite all the losses. A young talent like Fields is a valuable commodity that changes the team’s future in a league where quarterback talent is a decisive element for success.
Draft Capital
The Bears will go into the 2024 offseason with the best draft capital they have had in years. With two projected top 10 first-round draft picks, the Bears have the unique opportunity to strengthen key positions and solve critical needs by having the chance to choose elite talent early in the draft. Having two top-10 picks allows the club to make strategic decisions that may significantly affect the team’s performance, whether strengthening the offensive line, adding a dynamic playmaker on offense, or bolstering the defense. Additionally, the Bears have leverage in future transactions thanks to the two high-selection picks. They may trade down to get additional selections or utilize one of the picks to get a proven star, generating a ripple effect of talent throughout the roster.
D.J. Moore
Newly acquired wide receiver D.J. Moore proves why having a bonafide wide receiver is essential in the NFL. Since arriving in Chicago, Moore has transformed the Bears wide receiving core. Moore’s stats through Week 11 are as follows: 889 yards, six touchdowns, and 368 yards after the catch (3rd in the NFL). Moore already has one yard more than his total yards last year with the Carolina Panthers in just 11 games. Also, Moore became the first Bears wide receiver in the Super Bowl era with 200-plus receiving yards and three-plus receiving touchdowns in the same game. By improving the offense and becoming Fields’ go-to target, Moore has Bears fans in gratitude for his services.
DJ Moore vs. man coverage this season
12 receptions
336 yards (3rd in the NFL)
2 TDs
4.15 yards per route run— PFF CHI Bears (@PFF_Bears) November 22, 2023
Darnell Wright
First-round draft pick Darnell Wright has been a stud for the Bears. Bears fans knew the weak point for the Bears last season was the offensive line. General Manager Ryan Poles addressed the Bears’ critical need by selecting offensive tackle Darnell Wright out of Tenessee in the 2023 NFL Draft. Wright has started every game for the Bears in the 2023 season, holding up against formidable pass-rushers like Danielle Hunter, Maxx Crosby, and Aidan Hutchinson. With all the shuffling on the offensive line this season, Wright has been an anchor on the Bears line. Wright has been steadily improving, and the Bears can and should rely on him for the next decade.
Main Photo: Kirthmon F. Dozier – USA Today Sports
