The Chicago Bears Now Have a Chance to Right a Major Wrong

Look at all the lists that involve the Chicago Bears and the dumbest moves the team has made in its modern history. Obviously most of them will stay focused on drafting Mitch Trubisky, which is no surprise. However, close behind that for the fans old enough to remember was the baffling decision back in 2011 to trade tight end Greg Olsen to the Carolina Panthers. A move the team probably still regrets.

Olsen was a valued member of the offense in 2010, leading the team in touchdown catches and being the one who sparked the big win over Seattle in the playoffs. Unfortunately, none of that was enough to impress Mike Martz. The then-Bears offensive coordinator featured a system that didn't have much use for pass-catching tight ends. So rather than make a stand for a good player, GM Jerry Angelo acquiesced and sent him to Carolina for a 3rd round pick.

The Panthers got over 6,400 yards and three Pro Bowls out of that deal. Chicago packaged that pick in a trade for Brandon Marshall a year later. Not nearly enough to replace what could've been. Now though Ryan Pace has a chance to erase some of that dark stain on Bears history. Olsen and the Panthers agreed to part ways. The 34-year old isn't in his prime anymore but he had just shy of 600 yards this past season despite Kyle Allen being his quarterback most of that time.

Word is he still wants to play. The Bears need a tight end.

Chicago Bears could make great use of Olsen's experience

People might scoff at this idea. Olsen will be 35 in March. He's old and not as fast as he used to be. While that is impossible to argue, the guy is a smart, savvy veteran who understands how to create space for himself. Besides, it's not like he can't do better than what the Bears currently have on their roster. Tight ends have proven many times they can still be productive in their mid-30s. Antonio Gates, Tony Gonzales, and Jason Witten have proven that.

Nobody is saying Olsen will be a savior or long-term solution. What he can be instead is a relatively cheap upgrade to the position. Somebody the Bears could easily pair with a young draft pick that he could mentor for the future. This makes a ton of sense from both sides. Olsen knows Chicago and loved playing there. The Bears need tight end help for a sensible price.