Money, it's a hit.

Evidently, many Bears fans believe that the decision not to draft a quarterback after the first round is a clear sign that the team is scrapping any plans to make the playoffs in 2008. You may be shocked to know that I believe that the 2008 Bears are not bound for the playoffs anyway, even without a rookie QB sitting on the bench. The QB's drafted after the first round are no better than Kyle Orton. Matt Ryan is no better than Kyle Orton. This is not a time for a rookie. We need to rebuild our line, upgrade our skill people and reinforce the defensive secondary. Then the Bears need to spend some dough on Devin Hester, Brian Urlacher and a veteran QB free agent in 2009.

Renegotiating with Hester is a no-brainer. He is our best weapon, by far. By really far. It is not even funny so far. Tear up the rookie contract and give this kid some real guaranteed money. They owe it to the fans. Urlacher is a little different. He is 30. He was dinged up last year. He has time left on this deal. All true. But he played through the injuries and finished strong. If we continue to run a cover 2 scheme, there is no better middle linebacker in the league than Urlacher. He still creates turnovers, he can still run and continues to be a player the opponent schemes against. He is our leader. Chicago fans are overly critical. 54 has given this town and this team his all. This is not throwing money to a guy as a reward. He will play up to the contract.

If we can get this offense moving in the right direction, a veteran QB is the move. The Bears haven't had a rookie QB develop since McMahon. The line needs to protect, the receivers have to show progress and this running back situation has to produce. The D has a few good years left. I also love Craig Steltz. He will be the next strong safety and will thrive in this scheme. If Mike Brown goes down, which is likely as April snow in this town, watch for Steltz. He also marks the end of the Adam Archuleta Experience. Thank you and goodnight. So, if the Bears can blow the dust off of some cash, let's see the pursuit of a real free agent QB in '09. Make a splash, cheapies. Then, I may be able to justify season tickets, you know, with a real chance at a playoff-winning contender.