The Chicago Bears already added a new piece to their defense in the former of pass rusher Robert Quinn. One could imagine GM Ryan Pace probably wasn't done. Cornerback was an area the team has question marks. Prince Amukamara was cut. This left inexperienced reserve Kevin Toliver and recent arrival from the CFL Tre Roberson as their two primary options at the second spot opposite Kyle Fuller. That competition is about to grow.
According to agent Drew Rosenhaus, the Bears came to terms with Artie Burns on a one-year deal. The former Pittsburgh Steelers corner was a 1st round pick back in 2016. He came into the league with loads of potential. A guy with true speed and athleticism that flashed constantly at Miami. The problem was many warned he just wasn't ready for the NFL.
He declared early due to family financial issues and his lack of preparation showed.
"While his tape is average and technique can be nonexistent at times, NFL teams often draft on traits at the cornerback spot and assume that coaching will take care of the rest. Burns has length, speed, ball skills and abundant potential. Keep in mind he was limited in his growth at the position thanks to a spring track schedule, but he is still in the infant stages of reaching his pro potential."
After a solid rookie season, his play grew so inconsistent that he was gradually phased out of the lineup. He only appeared in 10 games in 2019.
Chicago Bears put Burns under the perfect coach
This is a savvy maneuver by Pace for another reason. Defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano can be perfect for Burns. For one he's a coach with a deep background in defensive backs. So he'll know exactly what is required to get the 24-year old playing better. Then there is the fact that Pagano coached for several years at Miami. Burns went to college there as well. Communication between the two should be far easier.
It's clear the kid was not happy in Pittsburgh. The team lost patience with him relatively fast and soon traded for veteran Joe Haden to take his place. That sort of thing can shake the confidence of a young player. Coming to Chicago offers a fresh start. He'll get to play under an experienced coach known for his motivational skills and behind one of the best front sevens in the league.
If he starts to unlock that vast potential of his, then the Bears just got a steal.
