Most discussions regarding the Chicago Bears offensive line are on the right side. GM Ryan Poles completely revamped it with veteran free agent Nate Davis at right guard and 1st round pick Darnell Wright at right tackle. It’s a massive step up in athleticism from last year. While it may take time for Wright to earn the necessary experience, the upside of that pairing is significant. Yet fans aren’t sure it will be enough to solve the team’s pass protection woes from last season. That is where Cody Whitehair comes in.
Center was a constant source of frustration for the Bears last season. Much of that was due to injuries. Lucas Patrick was supposed to be the designated starter in the middle. However, he failed to stay healthy. That forced Sam Mustipher into the lineup for most of the season. While the former undrafted free agent demonstrated intelligence and toughness, it was evident how outmatched he was in terms of athleticism and strength. Robert Schmitz of Da Bears Blog demonstrated on his YouTube channel why Whitehair should ease such problems.
Cody Whitehair should be a perfectly fine short-term solution.
He isn’t a spring chicken anymore at 31 years old. However, he should have enough left in the tank for at least one more season. That is what the Bears are asking for. When healthy, he still looks like the former Pro Bowler he was a few years ago. Whitehair is smart, quick, and generates good power in his lower body. The only real concern with him is whether he still struggles with shotgun snaps. That was a source of constant frustration during his last stint at the position. Expectations are he should have it under control.
The Bears don’t need Cody Whitehair to be a stud. They just need to him anywhere close to what he was a few years ago. That guy makes this entire offensive line better. He eases the burden on the guards and, most importantly, quarterback Justin Fields. When he’s had an adequate pocket to step into, the Bears’ passing game functioned quite well last season. Center is crucial to a successful offensive line. Even modest improvement there trickles down to the four other positions.
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