:sad44::alright::cry:
Printable View
I don't think anyone would argue that Urlacher has been as good as usual this year. However, we have to keep in mind that it's far more likely his knee injury still healing is more responsible for his play than his age. Sure, some players suddenly hit a wall when they get old and go from being productive to not in one season, but I think the knee injury had more to do with it in this case.
As Brian said, he might never be back to 100% on that knee, but with an offseason to heal, the knee will be better next September than it is now. Also, I don't see Urlacher playing elsewhere at this point. He knows the end is nearing, and he will want to stick around in a defense in which he's comfortable. I think the Bears will be able to get a reasonable, short-term contract worked out with him. He won't be getting $8 mil a year, but they will get it done.
He'll be back with the Bears... one way or another. His days as player are numbered and he is done. Don't see him coming back other than for a few downs in New Orleans to end his career the way it should end.
He was playing at a pretty high level last year, and has struggled with the injury this year, yet he was still the leader and played at an acceptable level.
Him and Ray Lewis are both huge leaders for the team, but they are both starting to show their age.
I want him back for another year, not because I'm a big Homer (which I am), but because I really think that he can help us. He will get the offseason to heal and could be back to at least the level he played at last year, which was pretty darn good.
We do need to look for his replacement.
His coming back to the Bears next will depend on the money he wants. I don't see him coming back next years as our starting MLB, so I don't see the Bears paying him a starting MLB salary. I also see drafting a MLB in the next draft moving up to one of the first two rounds.
I agree with JJ. He would only come back to mentor our drafted player