Heading into the summer, it was easy to argue that the biggest threat to the Chicago Bears in the NFC North was the Detroit Lions. With the Green Bay Packers collapsing in the playoffs against Chicago and the Lions winning both regular-season games against Ben Johnson, it is a fair take. One that just got a bit more difficult to hold as the Lions were forced to release Terrion Arnold in the middle of what is truly an alarming legal situation.
It is important to note here that this is in no way an indication of Arnold's guilt or innocence, but looking strictly at the football fallout for the Lions and how it benefits the Bears. It is a regrettable situation for a young player who is only 23 and facing a life-changing decision that appears likely not only to potentially end his career but could result in life in prison if convicted.
As difficult as it is to look at this situation from a football perspective, it is undeniably a piece of the puzzle. For the Bears, it serves as a clear benefit, as Arnold is now erased from Detroit's roster and leaves a secondary that was already facing questions facing an incredibly difficult road.
Lions Losses in the Secondary Create Undeniable NFC North Advantage for Bears
D.J. Reed is now the only proven starting option the Lions have rostered at the corner position. Arnold was supposed to be the team's second answer, with depth pieces answering the third starting role and adding to the rotation. Now, Chicago is looking at the very real possibility of facing the Lions with two unproven options at corner.
Considering the fact that Luther Burden, Rome Odunze, and Zavion Thomas are the team's primary options at receiver, this paints an exciting picture. One that should allow the Bears to get their first win against the Lions under head coach Ben Johnson. The former Detroit OC has notably failed to beat his former team in each of his first two attempts.
While it is an incredibly upsetting situation, the football side of things provides a clear path for Chicago to have a new advantage and a firmer grip on the North. It will be interesting to watch whether or not the Lions opt to make a desperation move and attempt to add depth to the position before the start of the season.
Regardless, it is clear that the loss of Arnold benefits the Bears, with the lack of corner depth giving Chicago an even better chance to repeat as division champions.
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