The Chicago Bears decided on their offensive captains today. They chose two. One was Pro Bowl center Olin Kreutz. 
QB Kyle Orton
But does it make sense for the team to choose new starting QB Kyle Orton as the co-captain of the offense? Let’s consider what that vote means. Orton, who has been in the league for three years after playing his college ball for Purdue, competed in 15 games in 2005 and three contests in 2007. In his first season, he completed 51.6% of his passes going 190 of 368 for 1,869 yards and nine touchdowns. He earned a rating of 73.9 and tossed 13 interceptions. Last season he saw limited action, going 43 of 80 (53.8%) for 478 yards. He threw three scorers and two picks. His rating was 73.9.
This Season
In the 2008 preseason, he played better than QB Rex Grossman, winning the starting spot over the five-year veteran. Although Grossman can throw all major NFL passes, he’s been prone to tossing picks and giving up the ball in big situations. Orton, on the other hand, was solid at the end of the 2007 season and was impressive in this year’s preseason. Orton is better at reading coverage, reacting to pressure and getting rid of the ball quickly. It’s doubtful that he’s a true number one starter, but the fact that the Bears have made him a captain says that they must feel as a team that there is potential there for Orton to be a true leader.
The new starting QB for the Bears has his work cut out for him. He has mediocre receivers and midland running backs. Head coach Lovie Smith has been very supportive of Orton and, after this election as captain, seems even more dedicated to ensuring his success as much as he possibly can. Smith would obviously rather not bench his new quarterback halfway through the season. If he does have to do this, he’ll turn to Grossman. Grossman is presently one of the best backup signal callers in the league.
The problem for the Bears is less at the field general spot and more at the other skill positions. Neither wideouts Rashied Davis, a three-year vet, nor nine-year man Marty Booker are game breaking guys. Tight end Desmond Clark is a fine player but entering his tenth NFL season, he’s showing wear and tear in his knees. When it comes to the running game, Chicago’s offensive line has suffered various injuries. That will hamper a ground attack that features Matt Forte.
Forte, who is out of Tulane, is good sized for NFL play at six-foot-two and 216 pounds. This is his first professional season, which could certainly influence his ability to perform and be a difference maker. Forte offers versatility and refined instincts. But he lacks experience and that will limit his output.
