In my mind, new Bears GM Phil Emery had two jobs this offseason.
1) Acquire a big time wide receiver
2) Re-sign Matt Forte
Job number two is still up in the air, though there have been encouraging signs that the two teams are trying to reach a deal. The Bears franchise'd Forte earlier this month and now have until July to work out a long-term contract.
Earlier this afternoon though was the news that Emery completed job number one. The Bears traded 3rd round picks in 2012 and 2013 to the Dolphins for Brandon Marshall, a proven big time receiver who has great history with Jay Cutler. This moves instantly opens up the Bears offense who sorely needed a playmaker at the receiver position.
There is nothing I don't love about this move. Rather than breaking the bank to sign Vincent Jackson, the Bears give up 2 later-round picks for a guy that will help them right now. Additionally, the Bears can also address the defensive side of the ball and try to sign someone along the lines of Mario Williams or provide outside linebacker help. Also, by not spending top-dollar on a free agent receiver, this might retain cap space in order to give Forte a much needed new contract.
Well done Phil Emery. Your first move as GM was perfect, and the team is infinitely better after your first major move.
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