The Chicago Bears weren't able to finish strong enough to reach the playoffs. It's a disappointing end to a frustrating season. Now the only thing left to do is determine how they want to approach the final two games. Neither of them can be called easy by any stretch of the imagination. The Kansas City Chiefs are red hot and fighting for a first round playoff bye in the AFC. Then it's off to Minnesota where the Vikings are hoping to wrap up a wild card berth.
There is something to be said for wanting to win out the rest of the way. Try to build some momentum going into next season. At the same time, everybody knows the risk of injuries never goes away, regardless of whether the games stop meaning anything. One mustn't forget what happened to Brian Urlacher in the 2011 season finale all those years ago. Are the Bears going to take that gamble again?
Besides, they could put that time to much better use anyway.
Chicago Bears must figure out what they have on the roster
Nagy wants to win. He wants to finish this season strong. That's understandable. He's a competitor even when the games don't mean as much. That said, this is the same guy who basically puts his starters in bubble wrap during the preseason while giving the depth guys plenty of work. This is basically the same situation, only it's December and not August. Under such conditions, here are the players he needs a closer look at.
Kevin Toliver
The second-year corner has already stepped in extensively over the past two weeks as veteran Prince Amukamara continues to deal with a hamstring problem. The impression he's made thus far could best be considered mixed. He's had a couple of nice moments including two pass deflections. However, his inexperience is obvious to see. With Amukamara being uncertain to still be on the team in 2020, the Bears have to know if Toliver can be a possible replacement.
Duke Shelley
The rookie 6th round pick came in with a lot of excitement from Bears scouts who believe he has a high ceiling as a future slot corner for the team. The presence of Buster Skrine though has limited him to just eight snaps this season on defense. Skrine is in his 30s though. So it might be wise to start the process of getting Shelley some actual live fire reps to see how he's progressing beyond just the practice field.
Alex Bars
The Bears had to work hard in order to keep Alex Bars in the fold given New England made a push to sign him off the practice squad. They wouldn't have done that if they didn't see the rookie having a future on the roster. Why not see what he can do? Rashaad Coward had his audition at right guard and has performed fine. Maybe Bars can show something different. If nothing else this would give the brass a better idea of how much help they need to find in the offseason.
Riley Ridley
The rookie 4th round pick started to get a few more snaps in recent weeks as injury struck Taylor Gabriel. Thus far he's caught every pass thrown his way but hasn't made any big plays just yet. It is clear Ridley is still adjusting to the speed of the NFL. The Chicago Bears would be wise not to rush Gabriel back at this point. Those snaps are far more valuable to a guy who's likely to be on the roster long-term. They should see if he can develop a connection with Mitch Trubisky.
