The Chicago Bears offense is already running strong at this point. They’ve scored 30 or more points in four of their last six games and just got done pasting Detroit last week. Their receivers are healthy and really coming into their own. Mitch Trubisky is slinging the ball well. Tarik Cohen remains a huge factor out of the backfield. Is it possible for this group to get any better?
The answer is yes. One key facet that head coach Matt Nagy had hoped to open up in his playbook was the two-tight end sets. Personnel groupings where he could put two tight ends capable of catching the ball on the field, creating mismatches in coverage against linebackers and safeties. Those plans went out the window when Adam Shaheen, their promising 2nd round pick from last year, injured his ankle and foot in the preseason.
Since then he’s been rehabbing on injured reserve while Trey Burton has handling duties at tight end. It’s worked out well, but the Bears still feel there’s room to get better. Now their chance is at hand with the news that Shaheen has been activated.
The #Bears are activating TE Adam Shaheen off injured reserve, source says. Last year’s second-round pick is back. TE Dion Sims headed to IR with a concussion.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) November 17, 2018
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Bears offense just became harder to defense for Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings defense is one of the best in the NFL. At the same time, they’re not perfect. They’ve had a number of down moments this season. One position group they’ve consistently struggled against are tight ends. Three different ones have gone over 90 yards on them this seasons with other groups finding ways to make a couple of big plays.
Now here’s the Bears. They already presented a number of problems with Allen Robinson, Anthony Miller, and Taylor Gabriel in the passing game. Now imagine adding the 6’3 Burton and the 6’6 Shaheen to the mix with their ability to run and catch. There are only so many guys the Vikings have who can cover. Chicago knows this and that’s why they’re almost certain to exploit Shaheen’s return right away.