Playoffs 2102
(Philadelphia, PA) - The Bears great improvement this season can be traced back to the stellar play of their linebackers: James Schad, Shawn Williams... and a rookie named Dean Watters. Despite having 7 rookie linebackers in camp, Dean Watters shined in the middle linebacker position in training camp. In the 4-6 defense, the middle linebacker typically has the greatest pass coverage responsibilities and someone with Watters impressive ball skills is essential. Watters coverage skills have been compared to what people saw out of Doug Dosland when he was a rookie. If Watters career arc matches Dosland's, then the Bears have a great middle linebacker for the future.
How good was Dean Watters? 49 tackles, 3 sacks, and 1 interception. He will likely be competing with Toby Vanderbeek for Rookie of the Year honors. In addition, the Bears first linebacker selected, David Stewart from Michigan, recorded one measly tackle the whole season. When you consider Watters was selected almost two full rounds after Stewart, the accomplishment really stands out. Moreover, many teams are now wondering how they passed up Watters twice.
Playoffs 2102
(Philadelphia, PA) - The Bears great improvement this season can be traced back to the stellar play of their linebackers: James Schad, Shawn Williams... and a rookie named Dean Watters. Despite having 7 rookie linebackers in camp, Dean Watters shined in the middle linebacker position in training camp. In the 4-6 defense, the middle linebacker typically has the greatest pass coverage responsibilities and someone with Watters impressive ball skills is essential. Watters coverage skills have been compared to what people saw out of Doug Dosland when he was a rookie. If Watters career arc matches Dosland's, then the Bears have a great middle linebacker for the future.