Pro Bowler Says Chicago Bears Secondary Will Be Even Better This Year

The defense is primarily known for their frightening front seven these days. A group led by Khalil Mack, Akiem Hicks, Eddie Goldman, Danny Trevathan, and Roquan Smith. However, there are plenty of experts out there who have put forth an argument that the Chicago Bears secondary is the actual strength of that group. They certainly have the statistical exploits to back it up.

Between Eddie Jackson, Kyle Fuller, and Prince Amukamara they combined for 16 interceptions and four defensive touchdowns. That is incredible production even without the inclusion of fellow starters Adrian Amos and Bryce Callahan who left via free agency. Still, that didn't stop four-time Pro Bowler Marcel Reece stating in an NFL.com debate that the Bears back end is the best in the NFL.

Not only that, but the arrival of their new defensive coordinator will make them even better.

"It has to be the Chicago Bears. This unit features first-team All-Pros Eddie Jackson at safety and Kyle Fuller at cornerback. More important is the fact that the Bears' secondary doesn't have a weak link. This group has a great balance of chemistry, speed and knowledge. These attributes, combined with an opportunistic approach, are what keep offensive coordinators up at night.

The Bears, who also boast a Khalil Mack-led pass rush, were really good under Vic Fangio but will be even better with Chuck Pagano as coordinator. The former Colts head coach's defense will feature different looks and blitz packages, allowing it to feast on any mistake."

Chicago Bears secondary is now being overseen by a DB maestro

The arrival of Chuck Pagano is being overlooked from this aspect. Reece is smart enough to take note of it. Pagano has a deep background as a defensive backs coach. During that time, particularly in the NFL, any team that has hired him saw their secondary play improve by significant margins.

In 2000, the Cleveland Browns had the 12th ranked pass defense with 12 interceptions. A year later when Pagano arrived, they jumped to 10th in pass defense with a whopping 33 interceptions.

In 2004, the Oakland Raiders had the 30th ranked pass defense. Pagano arrived the next year and boosted them to 18th. By the end of the 2006 season, they were 1st.

In 2007, the Baltimore Ravens were 20th in pass defense with 17 interceptions. When Pagano took over that next year, they jumped to 2nd and corralled 26 interceptions.

This is a tangible impact a coach is making. Not just on units that experienced major overhauls like the Browns and Raiders either. He handled an established one in Baltimore as well. Each time there was a significant improvement. Given how good the Bears secondary has looked in training camp to this point, it feels like Reece's prediction may actually become a reality.