One thing that has become an annual tradition each year is having one N.F.L. team play host to the popular HBO documentary series Hard Knocks. It covers the organization through training camp and preseason, learning about players, coaches, and executives. There have been plenty of interesting stories over the years with many different teams. Thus far, the Chicago Bears have managed to avoid such a fate. However, many have a serious feeling that they're a favorite to finally get the nod this year.
Team chairman George McCaskey has made it clear time and again that this is something he and the ownership don't want. However, the NFL does have the executive power to force an organization to participate if there are no volunteers. Here is why the league may feel it's a good time for Chicago to bite the bullet.
The Chicago Bears must prepare for Hard Knocks.
Everybody knows 2023 is a make-or-break year for the Bears quarterback. He was electric as a runner last season, but doubts persist about his ability to be a legitimate N.F.L. passer. That must chan,ge and he knows it. This can't be another season of him averaging 150 yards per game. It will be fascinating to see behind-the-scenes looks at his approach to correcting those issues and how his leadership also evolving.
Wide receiver logjam
If there is one position group that could generate some drama in training camp and the preseason, it's the wide receivers. Chase Claypool arrived via trade last year. D.J. Moore then followed in March. Rookie Tyler Scott came in the 4th round. Darnell Mooney still hasn't returned from his ankle injury. You have all of that at the top. Then you have Velus Jones, Dante Pettis, Equanimeous St. Brown, Nsimba Webster, and two notable undrafted rookies vying for what will likely be two remaining spots.
Matt Eberflus and his intense practices
Few people are more covered during Hard Knocks than the head coach. He sets the tone for the entire season. This would be a great chance to see Matt Eberflus conduct his full operation. People have heard rumors about how intense his practices can be. This would be a terrific in-depth look at why he champions this approach as part of his H.I.T.S. philosophy. We'll also see how he handles players off the field, which is often vital to success.
A deeper look at Ryan Poles' rebuild work
One of the great things about the Chicago Bears G.M. is how accessible he's been since taking over last year. He isn't afraid to do constant interviews and behind-the-scenes looks at his operation. Getting more of this from the professionals at HBO can only be a good thing. He's often candid about his approach to roster-building and won't be afraid to answer tougher questions. There is also the possibility he pulls off another unexpected trade.
Arlington Heights move in the background
Unlike most teams that appear on the show, the Bears have the added intrigue of their anticipated move out of Soldier Field for the first time in over 50 years. The Arlington Heights stuff is still generating buzz even now. New team president Kevin Warren isn't afraid to be in front of the cameras. He's already proven that multiple times. It would not be a shock if he answers questions about the ongoing process to find his organization a new home.
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