Chicago Bears Reportedly Eyeing Veteran QB Help. Watch These Names
The Chicago Bears have championed a single idea since the new regime took over. They would prioritize on-field performance over what was invested in a player. In other words, if a young guy outplays a high draft choice or expensive veteran in training camp, the roster spot goes to them. This scenario played out in real-time when undrafted rookie quarterback Tyson Bagent unseated veterans P.J. Walker and Nathan Peterman as the primary backups to Justin Fields.
However, it seems the team might not be comfortable handing the keys to the rookie just yet. Head coach Matt Eberflus admitted the team could look into adding a veteran presence at quarterback.
“Yeah, that’s a good thought. We’re certainly looking at that option. We’re looking at other options, too. But that’s a good thought when you can have somebody with experience in there to help younger quarterbacks. It’s something that we’ve talked about.”
Presuming this is true, it feels like a good time to explore the market and find some quarterbacks that fit the description of what they want.
These three names fit what the Chicago Bears likely seek.
Colt McCoy
The tricky part of this idea for the Bears is finding somebody with legitimate experience who won’t expect the starter treatment. That is why guys like Carson Wentz or Matt Ryan are out. McCoy has been around the NFL for 12 years. He’s started 36 games in that time, posting a semi-decent 34 TDs to 32 interceptions. Teammates and coaches have never had a bad thing to say about him. He’s a great locker room presence. To top it off, he has experience playing in a wide-zone offense. McCoy worked with Sean McVay for three years in Washington between 2014 and 2016.
Jeff Driskel
The former 6th round pick has bounced around the league for the past five seasons. While only having a 1-9 record in that span, it’s mostly a result of playing on some atrocious teams. Driskel played reasonably well (by backup standards). He has a decent arm and seems to have improved his efficiency over the years. Better still, he’s pretty mobile for his size, able to keep plays alive with his legs. He would have no issue being a third-string option and certainly isn’t worse than Nathan Peterman.
Josh Johnson
Easily the most well-traveled quarterback in history. Johnson has worn the jerseys of 14 different NFL teams. He’s also suited up for the United Football League, Alliance of American Football, and the XFL. So, nobody can say the guy doesn’t have experience. He also checks the “resilience” box that the Chicago Bears seem to covet. He’s 37 years old and has played pretty well the past few times he’s gotten the opportunity. The guy is a survivor who has seen everything this league has to offer. Having him alongside Bagent can’t be a bad thing.