There are several key factors that go into whether the Chicago Bears offense will be a success in 2021. People keep talking about the quarterbacks because obviously. That position is the most important on the field. However, there are other spots in the lineup surrounded by questions. While most point to the tackle spots, some have reservations about Sam Mustipher at center. Though the former undrafted free agent did a good job stepping in during the second half of last season, is he truly capable of being a long-term starter? Juan Castillo seems to think so.
The Bears offensive line coach is known for his grinder mentality. He works guys hard and has high expectations. So when he offers praise, it’s worth taking note of. That was the case last month. Chicago gave fans a look behind the scenes at their evaluation process after preseason games. Assistant coaches review film and grade all of their players on their performances. This helps the process of figuring out where they’re at with the roster.
Based on what Castillo had to say? Mustipher is making considerable strides.
Remember this isn’t in front of the press where coaches are almost always predisposed to support their players. He’s doing it during a legitimate evaluation session. So he means every word he says. Is he wrong? Well, the numbers tell an encouraging story. Mustipher played 51 pass blocking snaps in the preseason last month. He allowed just two pressures on the quarterback in that span.
Looking back to 2020, this continues a trend for him. Last season, Mustipher allowed 10 pressures including a sack during his time on the field at center. Seven of them came in his first two games against the Rams and Saints. Teams with two of the best interior defensive fronts in football. After that? Mustipher allowed just three pressures over the final six regular season games.
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Juan Castillo has a firm trust in Mustipher
It is understandable that some people have reservations about the third-year blocker. His strength was and remains a concern ever since college. He’s not the biggest guy in the world either. What it comes down to for him is quickness, technique, and intelligence. If a center has those qualities? They can usually do just fine in the NFL. Provided his coaches don’t continuously put him in bad positions.
One thing that is important? Not to judge him too quickly. His first game of the season will be against Aaron Donald. The best interior pass rusher of his generation. Maybe ever. Having a difficult game against guys like that isn’t something to get worked up about. What Juan Castillo and the Bears need to ensure is that Mustipher continues to show steady improvement as he gains experience.
There is no questioning the kid’s desire.
He has put in so much work already to get where he is. This sort of opportunity doesn’t come around often for undrafted players. He doesn’t plan to waste it. If he takes another step forward, the Bears will have a critical piece of their offensive line in place on the cheap. Something that can be incredibly valuable as they try to reshape the roster around Justin Fields moving forward.