The Chicago Bears and Jay Cutler are heading into a very important season for the franchise after firing coach Lovie Smith and bringing in Marc Trestman and the offense will be relying big time on wide receiver Brandon Marshall, which made it a welcome sign for the team when he practiced Monday ahead of the first week of the regular season.
According to ESPN Chicago, Marshall had his hip checked out again after having surgery on it in the offseason and was back to practice on Monday. His return came after Marshall said to the media that he was frustrated in his recovery process and the front office said he will be ready to play the Bengals at home on Sunday at Soldier Field. Marshall showed last season that he is one of the most valuable wide receivers in football and Jay Cutler will be going to him often.
Last season Marshall was one of the most productive players in the NFL, making 118 catches for 1,508 yards and 11 touchdowns and this season Trestman is hoping for the same production from him, but also some work from the other players on the roster. Earl Bennett has been a disappointment and the coaching staff is expecting big things from Alshon Jeffery.
The play and health of running back Matt Forte will play a big part and the team will also have to focus on the offensive line consistency, including from rookie Kyle Long. The Bears went 10-6 last season, but they missed the playoffs and that was enough to lose Smith his job despite taking the franchise to the Super Bowl against the Colts. If Marshall isn't healthy this season, it could be a tough year for the Bears and for Cutler.
The Bears ranked 29th in passing yards per game while dealing with an uneven offensive line and having someone like Jeffery breakout alongside Marshall will do wonders for the team. Forte is a dual threat and with Trestman overhauling the offense, the Bears could be explosive.