The Chicago Bears go out of their way to make sure they never divulge any information pertaining to the futures their employees. Amidst the swirling debates over head coach John Fox, the team has not let a single bit of information leak reflecting one plan or another. All people can do is speculate. Still nobody is perfect. Some have wondered whether the team has lost any faith in GM Ryan Pace given the string of difficult seasons since 2015.
Based on a recent announcement by the organization, his fans have nothing to worry about. It was widely believed Pace was secure in his job. Aside from a handful of missteps he actually done a fine job steadily reloaded the Bears roster with intriguing young talent. Still, facts are facts. The Bears are 12-29 during his tenure.
It seems that hasn’t soured him on ownership. That much was clear based on the announcement that the organization would undertake a massive expansion of Halas Hall to be completed by 2019.
Bears announce plans to double the size of the football facilities at Halas Hall. More details: https://t.co/UbmWHMvqIK via @ChiTribKane pic.twitter.com/lDI1BKw577
— Rich Campbell (@Rich_Campbell) November 18, 2017
#Bears officially announce a major renovation to Halas Hall that will double it in size. This has been in the works for a while and has GM Ryan Pace’s fingerprints all over it. Facilities will be very impressive. Scheduled to be completed by start of 2019 season.
— Adam Hoge (@AdamHoge) November 17, 2017
Ryan Pace is at the front of renovation plans
What does this have to do with Pace’s future? The changes to the complex are largely led by his initiatives. This is part of an ongoing effort by him to complete modernize the organization. He already did it with the scouting and medical practices. Now he’s set to take a big cut at the training and practice areas as well.
It’s worth noting that GM Ryan Pace spearheaded this initiative with the backing of team chairman George McCaskey & president Ted Phillips.
— Rich Campbell (@Rich_Campbell) November 18, 2017
The point of this? It’s hard to imagine the Bears allowing Pace this much leeway with changing their mode of operation. At least if there was any inkling at all that his job status was in jeopardy. True to form Pace applied his usual thorough research to the project. Every notable NFL and college complex was examined. The idea being that he’s intent on making Chicago a cutting edge franchise.
After years of living by tradition, it’s refreshing to finally have a GM who thinks forward. Seems the ownership is seeing things the same way. Embracing new medical ideas. Seeking to make players better through technology. A thorough investment at the quarterback position. Pace is the first at his position to make a serious sweeping effort in all those areas.
Sure it’s not showing up in the win column yet. However, Pace is a man who has always thought long-term. It might make for early headaches, but down the road it will all pay off. He’s stuck to this message and the Bears are still buying in.