Ryan Poles Implements Intriguing Adjustment to the Tight End Position
The Chicago Bears made some intriguing waves in the tight end pool this week, capturing the attention of fans and analysts alike. Fresh on the heels of adding seasoned tight end Marcedes Lewis to the roster on a one-year agreement, GM Ryan Poles shared his ambition for a strong offensive leader who could both guide younger players and contribute significantly as a blocker.
But Poles wasn't done tinkering with that position just yet. The Bears parted ways with the injury-sidelined undrafted free agent Jake Tonges on Tuesday, bringing in William & Mary's standout Lachlan Pitts as his replacement.
While this move might not catch the eye of the casual observer, it hints at a deeper strategy. It's not as if Pitts, who boasts an impressive frame at 6'6" and 255 lbs, is undeserving of this chance. During his time with the Tribe, he made a name for himself as a fearsome blocker, demonstrating prowess in both run and pass protection. However, his final season saw him flourish as a receiver, racking up over 500 yards and five touchdowns.
In Chicago, Pitts could offer something truly unique. With Cole Kmet as the starter, and the duo of Lewis and Robert Tonyan as experienced backups, the Bears have a robust tight end lineup. But what they lack is a promising young talent to nurture. Pitts could be that diamond in the rough. His blocking skills are well-documented, but he's also an underrated athlete with untapped potential.
The signing of Pitts fits neatly into Ryan Poles' broader strategy of building for the future. While he may not be an immediate standout, Pitts possesses the raw skills required for success in the NFL. By placing trust in head coach Matt Eberflus and the rest of the coaching staff, the GM is investing in development. It may be a stretch to expect significant contributions from Pitts in the upcoming 2023 season, but with the right guidance, he could set the stage for a breakout in the near future.
Poles continues to show his knack for recognizing potential and fostering competition within the team. With this addition, he has emphasized not only the importance of the here and now but also the value of planning and developing for what lies ahead. Pitts' signing might be a small ripple in the grand scheme of things, but it's a glimpse into the thoughtful and strategic mind of Chicago's GM.
| POLL | ||
9 AOUT | 22 ANSWERS Ryan Poles Implements Intriguing Adjustment to the Tight End Position Do you like this signing by Ryan Poles? | ||
| Yes | 18 | 81.8 % |
| No | 4 | 18.2 % |
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