Chicago Bears: Players react to Matt Nagy’s opening message
By Ryan Heckman
The Chicago Bears began their offseason activities this week. To say players were impressed with the opening message from Matt Nagy would be an understatement.
Ryan Pace got it right. We have yet to see anything translate to the field, but Pace most certainly hired the right coach for the Chicago Bears.
Matt Nagy is not only young and offensive-minded, but he embodies what Bears football is all about: Passion. From the moment we first saw Nagy speak to the Chicago media during his introductory press conference, his passion for the game has shone loudly.
As the Bears were one of two teams to begin their offseason activities on Tuesday, Nagy finally had the opportunity to address his new team. His message was full of fire and life, according to the overall player reactions.
Recently-signed tight end Trey Burton told the Bears official website that his new head coach was fired up.
"“He’s fired up. He’s really excited to be here. He knows that we have a really good chance to have a good season. He just wants to make sure that everybody’s on the same page and knows what their role is and things like that.”"
One of the leaders of this team, defensive end Akiem Hicks, put his coach’s opening thoughts simply.
"“We’re here to win, that’s it.”"
Perhaps the best quote regarding Nagy’s message came from veteran linebacker Sam Acho, who talked about how confident he is in his team and coaching staff.
"“I’m unbelievably confident. You know that you’re attacking each day with a purpose, with a passion, with a drive that can’t be replaced. I’m excited for today. I’m excited for what we’re going to do tomorrow, and I know that all those bricks that you build are going to pay off to build a nice big building.”"
It is quite refreshing to hear players speak so fervently about their coach — especially in Chicago. Bears fans were used to the soft-spoken, ho-hum personality of John Fox for three seasons. That type of energy died the moment Nagy was hired.
Do the Bears have a Super Bowl-caliber roster? By all accounts. I’d say probably not. But, do they have a lot of talented pieces in place? Absolutely. Now, it is up to Nagy to continue the ascent.
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If his players’ opinions of the new attitude around the building are any indication, I think the Bears will do just that — ascend. It shouldn’t be long before this team is competing not only for a division title, but NFC supremacy.