Can Bears WR Marquess Wilson Show Potential in Opportunity?
By Ernie Padaon
The Chicago Bears might as well call it a season for Brandon Marshall. Marshall is in the hospital with two fractured ribs and an injured lung. He left the game on Thursday Night after he was hit hard in the back by Barry Church after a catch.
With the Bears post-season hopes already gone, there is no reason to rush Marshall back onto the field. He has been hampered with injuries already this season and has not lived up to the production that he showed last season. He has 58 catches for 660 yards and 8 touchdowns this year in comparison to his 100 receptions for 1295 yards and 12 touchdowns last season.
Marshall has already been declared out for Monday Night’s game against the New Orleans Saints and Marquess Wilson will get the opportunity to start. There is no reason for Marshall to get back into the games for the rest of the season and they should just call it done. He can be a cheerleader and the team could get a better look at Wilson.
Wilson spent most of the season on the sideline with an injured collarbone. He returned to the field a few weeks ago, but has not seen a lot of action yet. This is his time to show his value and prove his worth. The team was hoping that he would be able to break out this season as another playmaker for Jay Cutler to throw the ball to, but his injury didn’t allow him to get his chance.
Now is the time for the 6-foot-4 receiver to show his potential. He only has 5 receptions for 40 yards this season, but the opportunity to get reps with the first team is here. Wilson was taken in the 7th round last season and could be a significant contributor on offense next season. We will have to see what he can do with his playing time.
How will he respond to that opportunity?