Why Mess Up A Good Thing? Sit Chris Williams For Rest Of Year
First-round pick T Chris Williams feels he is ready to play, just 12 weeks removed from surgery to repair a herniated disc. The only problem is John St. Clair is already the team’s left tackle and with him on the line, pass protection has been superb.
If you remember correctly, back in April, Williams was touted to be the team’s franchise left tackle who could start right away. I don’t think GM Jerry Angelo and the boys envisioned right away might have meant at least eight games into the season.
That’s not to say Williams will start, or even be considered to, Sunday versus Detroit. Still, if the Bears brass are taking votes as to when he should play, I’d cast mine for 2009.
Yes, an opportunity could always present itself; like, if the Bears were to find themselves up by 20+ late in the third quarter. But if expectation, or even pure curiousity for that matter, thrusts Williams into the starting lineup, it will be a grave mistake.
For one thing, he can’t possibly know the playbook. Secondly, offensive line positions are different than any other position in the NFL in that the emphasis is placed on cohesiveness. Replacing a well-adapted St. Clair with a rookie — albeit, who has way more upside — just doesn’t make sense.
I’m with you that we shouldn’t mess with the line out there. Still, I’d like him to get his feet wet. I don’t want to get ahead of myself and you never know in the NFL, but you’d think there’s a good chance we’re up big on Detroit by the 3rd quarter or so. I mean it’s already happened this year, we’re at home, and healthier than we have been all season. If that happens, it would be a great situation to give Williams a drive or two.
I agree – leave St. Clair right where he is and save Williams for spot duty and 4th quarter blowouts. Some depth at tackle would be a nice problem to have.
BTW, love the site. Keep it up!
St. Clair has done an okay job as the Bears LT, but you right why rush in your future franchise player. Maybe get him in this week for a couple of plays, because there playing Detroit. Nice article though. Check out my site.