Here's One Overlooked Reason Nick Foles Will Succeed In Chicago

Ask a group of experts their thoughts about Nick Foles coming to Chicago, odds are the answers will be a mixed bag. A lot of people think the Chicago Bears bid against themselves for his services. He's not worth the money or the 4th round pick they gave up to get him from Jacksonville. Others think he may not be flashy but he's a clear upgrade over Mitch Trubisky. Most tend to agree that his addition alone isn't going to change the status quo for the Bears offense.

There are reasons for them to think that way. A lot of it was his dud of a year with the Jaguars in 2019. One that saw him lose his job to a rookie in Gardner Minshew. Not to mention his bad luck in being able to play a full season. The pessimism is understood to a point. With that said, there are certain factors in play that might be getting overlooked.

His connections to the coaching staff and familiarity with the offensive system to start. Then there is one other that hasn't been addressed by anybody. The concerted effort by the Bears to load up the tight end position.

Give Nick Foles a legit tight end and he'll make plays

It may seem like a weak argument but it's actually not. If one follows Foles' history, his best seasons in the NFL often involve having a top tier tight end to throw to. In 2013, his best statistical season, he had veteran Brent Celek as his primary target. Those two hooked up for five touchdowns that year in just 10 games. His epic run in 2017? He had Zach Ertz. In just six games including three in the playoffs together, they connected 39 times for 353 yards and two touchdowns.

Now look at his two most criticized seasons. With the Rams in 2015 he had Jared Cook. That may seem not so bad but remember St. Louis actually changed offensive coordinators midway through the season. Then in 2019, Foles' best options were Geoff Swaim, Nick O'Leary, and James O'Shaunessy. Not ideal. Is it a coincidence that he played well the moment he left the Rams for Kansas City where Travis Kelce was waiting?

It was not an accident that the Bears invested so heavily at tight end with Jimmy Graham and Cole Kmet. They know how their new quarterback prefers to operate. Let him control the middle of the field with those big guys and then take his shots deep. This offense is constructed exactly to his specifications. All he needs is the ball in his hands.