Bear Down: A Chicago Bears' Dynasty Beginning in 1975

[RetroNFL]

After having recently purchased Front Office Football 2007 and downloaded the historical rosters and drafts, I've decided to embark on a dynasty featuring the Chicago Bears. I've chosen 1975 as my starting point. First off, this is about the time I began to follow pro football. Secondly, this season marks Walter Payton's rookie season. So, here we go . . .

[Coffee Warlord]

Bear down, Chicago Bears!

Da da da da da da da da da victory!

[RetroNFL]

Final Season Record: 6-10, 4th Place in the NFC North

Season Summary: After a promising 2-1 start, the Bears quickly went into the tank. Chicago lost four straight games. The final loss in the streak was a 31-0 pummeling by the division-leading Minnesota Vikings. Following an open date, the Bears resumed their season with up-and-down performances. Hopefully, the season-ending 24-3 victory over the Houston Oilers is a sign of good things to come.

The Good: Walter Payton won the NFC Rookie of the Year by rushing for 1,364 yards (3.93 average) with six touchdowns. Payton also caught 58 passes for 328 yards (5.6).

The Bad: Quarterback Bob Avellini struggled mightily. He passed for just 1,664 yards before being benched. Avellini threw for 10 TDs but was intercepted 16 times.

The Ugly: The Bears scored more than 21 points just four times all season. The season-high was 24 points in wins over Green Bay and Houston.

[RetroNFL]

Super Bowl '75: Pittsburgh Steelers 38, Minnesota Vikings 23
Super Bowl MVP: Terry Bradshaw, Pittsburgh Steelers

NFL Player of the Year: O.J. Simpson, Buffalo Bills
NFL Offensive Player of the Year: O.J. Simpson, Buffalo Bills
NFL Defensive Player of the Year: Carl Eller, Minnesota Vikings

NFL Rookie Offensive Player of the Year: Walter Payton, Chicago
NFL Defensive Player of the Year: Jerry Forester, Seattle Seahawks

Interesting Notes: Minnesota won its first 13 games before falling to Detroit. The Vikings rolled to the NFC title by scoring a combined 86 points against Philadelphia and Washington . . . Pittsburgh overcame a four-game losing streak in the middle of the season. The Steelers (11-5) finished second in the AFC North to Cincinnati (12-4). However, Pittsburgh beat Cincinnati, Oakland and Miami to reach the Super Bowl . . . After an 0-8 start, New Orleans won six straight games. Despite losing their final two games of the regular season, the Saints won the NFC South with a 6-10 record. New Orleans lost to Philadelphia 23-15 in the first-round of the playoffs . . . Making the playoffs were Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, Miami, Oakland and Denver in the AFC. Meanwhile, the NFC playoffs featured Minnesota, New Orleans, Washington, Philadelphia, Dallas and Los Angeles . . . Denver's Otis Armstrong led the league in rushing with 1,599 yards. Armstrong ran for 100 or more yards eight times . . . O.J. Simpson of Buffalo scored 14 touchdowns . . . Cincinnati's Charlie Joiner was tops with 99 catches for 1,651 yards. Joiner grabbed more than 100 yards receiving in eight different games . . . The Bengals' Ken Anderson threw for 300 or more yards six times . . . Bert Jones of the Indianapolis Racers led the league with 35 TD passes . . . Carl Eller bagged 22.5 sacks for the Vikings.

[BYU 14]

Get McMahon at all costs, he just can never be anything but...A BEAR

[RetroNFL]

Following a lackluster 1975 season, the Chicago Bears suffered a key blow when the team's leading interceptor Nemiah Wilson announced his retirement. Wilson (pictured below) never really recoverd from a foot injury sustained in the season's ninth game.

The decision was also made to allow Bob Grim, the team's leading receiver, and Royce Berry, a starting defensive end, to test the waters of free agency. We attempted to renegoiate with Berry, but he wanted to play elsewhere at this point of his career. Berry eventually signed with St. Louis.

Offensive guard Revie Sorey was sent to play in the NFL's summer league. The Bears also made the decision to release tight end Gary Butler and running back Mike Adamlee.

Inconsistent quarterback Bob Avelleni was traded to Cleveland for a fourth-round pick. While backup Adrian Farr, a second-year player who backed up Tom Clement at Notre Dame, showed flashes of promise (74 passing %, 5 TDs, 3 INTs in two starts), QB is a position Chicago needs to seriously upgrade.

Free Agency: While there were several big names on the market including running back John Riggins, Chicago signed the following free agents:

WR Frank Lewis for $200,000/1 year
WR Danny Buggs for $100,000/1 year
QB Brian Sipe for $170,000/1 year

Riggins wound up with the league champion Steelers at $3.68 million for 5 years.

[RetroNFL]

1. St. Louis--Mike Haynes, CB, Arizona State
2. Seattle--Harry Carson, LB, South Carolina State
3. Baltimore--Jim Jenson, RB, Iowa
4. Tampa Bay--Eddie Lewis, CB, Kansas
5. Birmingham--Richard Todd, QB, Alabama
6. Baltimore--Mike Dawon, DT, Arizona
7. Houston--Lawrence Pillers, DE, Alcorn State
8. Buffalo--Lee Roy Selmon, DE, Oklahoma
9. New England--Steve Niehaus, DT, Notre Dame
10. San Francisco--Gary Fencik, S, Yale
11. Atlanta--Jim Zorn, QB, Cal Poly SLO
12. Chicago--Steve Largent, WR, Tulsa
13. New Orleans--Joe Devlin, T, Iowa
14. Green Bay--Carl Ekern, LB, San Jose State
15. Phoenix--Linden King, LB, Colorado State
16. Detroit--Larry Gordon, LB, Arizona State
17. NY Jets--Reggie Williams, LB, Dartmouth
18. Cleveland--Willie Lee, DT, Bethune-Cookman
19. Kansas City--Chuck Muncie, RB, California
20. San Diego--Dennis Lick, T, Wisconsin
21. Dallas--Archie Griffin, RB, Ohio State
22. Memphis--Willie Shelby, RB, Alabama
23. Los Angeles--Pat Thomas, CB, Texas A&M
24. Philadelphia--Glenn Hyde, T, Pittsburgh
25. Denver--Don Macek, C, Boston College
26. Cincinnati--Gary Campbell, LB, Colorado
27. Indianapolis--Mike Reinfeldt, S, Wisconsin-Stevens Point
28. St. Louis--Beasley Reece, S, North Texas
29. Oakland--Joe Washington, RB, Oklahoma
30. Washington--Ken Long, G, Purdue
31. Minnesota--Ike Forte, RB, Arkansas
32. Pittsburgh--Jackie Slater, G, Jackson State


Chicago Bears Amateur Draft Report:
Rnd 1 - Steve Largent, WR, Tulsa
Rnd 2 - Mike St. Clair, DE, Grambling
Rnd 3 - Pick was traded to Phoenix during the regular season
Rnd 4 - Woodrow Lowe, OLB, Alabama
Rnd 4 - Ed Simonini, ILB, Texas A&M
Rnd 5 - Bubba Bean, RB, Texas A&M
Rnd 6 - John Lee, DE, Nebraska
Rnd 7 - Jay Saldi, TE, South Carolina

Draft Grade: B+

[RetroNFL]

Originally Posted by BYU 14

Get McMahon at all costs, he just can never be anything but...A BEAR

except maybe a Charger, Packer, Eagle, Viking, Cardinal, Brown . . .

[BYU 14]

Originally Posted by RetroNFL

except maybe a Charger, Packer, Eagle, Viking, Cardinal, Brown . . .

Your chance to set history straight..

[cubboyroy1826]

Good start.

[RetroNFL]

As the Bears prepare for their 1976 season opener with Detroit, it's time to reflect on the off-season.

The Good: The running game appears to be the Bears' strength. Walter Payton appears on the verge of becoming one of the league's best running backs. In addition, rookie Bubba Bean will provide a solid backup.Fullback Roland Harper should benefit from the signing of 11-year-veteran free agent Pete Banaszak.

The Bad: Quarterback play will again be the team's Achilles heel. Free agent signee Brian Sipe was cut in training camp. The coaching staff just didn't fee he could play. Former Lion Joe Reed beat out Adrian Farr in the exhibition season and will start Sunday against his former team.

The Ugly: Perhaps more of an effort should have been made to retain defensive end Royce Berry. Our DE unit is one of the lowest rated in the league. While the defensive tackles are passable, more pressure will be put on the linebackers and secondary.

Exhibition Season Recap: After dropping the pre-season opener to the defending champion Pittsburgh Steelers 24-3, Chicago won three straight games including a 13-0 shutout of Memphis.

League Notes: Pittsburgh, Oakland and Cincinnati enter the season as the top three power-rated teams. Minnesota and Dallas top the list as NFC favorites.

[RetroNFL]

Lions 21, Bears 17
The Bears appeared well on their way to taking their season opener. Leading 17-14, Chicago was driving deep into Detroit territory. However, Walter Payton fumbled the ball away on the Lion 16 with 3:41 remaining. Lions' QB Steve Spurrier drove Detroit to the Chicago six. Josh Ashton then scored on a six-yard run with just 37 seconds on the clock. Chicago did manage to get into Detroit territory, but the Lions' defense held as the clock ran out. Payton rushed 22 times for 95 yards and a touchdown. He also caught six balls for 55 yards. QB Joe Reed went 13-for-25 for 202 yards and a TD in his first start as a Bear. Spurrier completed 32 of 43 throws for 292 yards and a touchdown.

Week 2 Opponent: at Houston

[RetroNFL]

The Chicago Bears traded three players from their present for stock in their future.

Chicago, last-minute losers in its opener with Detroit, dealt defensive tackle Wally Chambers, offensive guard Revie Sorey and inside linebacker Waymond Bryant to the New England Patriots for three draft picks.

The draft picks will come over the course of the next three seasons. The Bears will get the Patriots' first-round pick for 1977. The deal also brings Chicago the Patriots' second-round selection in '78 and their first-round slot in the 1979 draft.

"This is a trade that should work well with our youthful foundation," said Chicago GM Ray Vaughan. "We wish Wally, Revie and Waymond the best with their futures."

Bryant has been critical of Chicago management during the off-season.

[RetroNFL]

Chicago Bears' Record: 1-7

The Good: Not much, however, after losing their first seven games this season the Bears routed Detroit 34-10 to gain revenge for their last-minute loss in week one.

The Bad: Just about everything thus far in the season. Only Tampa Bay (also at 1-7) is as bad as Chicago in the NFC. And, the Bears and Bucs don't meet this season. The Bears have lost three times in the game's final minute this season.

The Ugly: How bad a season has it been? Well, in a 38-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, Bear defensive end Mike Hartenstine sacked Ram QB Ron Jaworski only to see LA running back John Cappelletti scoop up the fumble and run 85 yards for a TD.

Walter Payton at the Halfway Mark:
741 yards on 165 attempts (4.49) and 5 TDs
42 catches for 262 yards (6.2) and 3 TDs

[RetroNFL]

Final Season Record: 5-11, 3rd Place in the NFC North

Season Summary: An 0-7 start doomed the season. However, Chicago did string together a four-game winning streak. In fact, the Bears won five of six to renew hope for the future. But, the season ended on a sour note with losses to Indianapolis and Green Bay.

The Good: Running back Walter Payton did not suffer from the sophomore jynx. In fact, Payton bettered his totals from his Rookie of the Year season. He rushed for 1,378 yards (4.29 average) and seven touchdowns. Payton also led the team with 71 receptions (5.89 average). He had three TD catches.

The Bad: Once again, quarterback play hurt the Bears' efforts. Starter Joe Reed showed some promise (2,349 yards, 62% completion, 12 TDs, 8 INTs). Yet, in the end, Reed was far too inconsistent. Backups Tracy Easterling and Adrian Farr most likely won't return next season.

The Ugly: A worn-out, undermanned defense yielded 90 points in the final three games of the season. Yes, all three games were losses.

[RetroNFL]

Super Bowl '76: Los Angeles Rams 23, Miami Dolphins 13
Super Bowl MVP: Lawrence McCutcheon, Los Angeles Rams

NFL Player of the Year: Fran Tarkenton, Minnesota Vikings
NFL Offensive Player of the Year: Fran Tarkenton, Minnesota Vikings
NFL Defensive Player of the Year: Jack Youngblood, Los Angeles Rams

NFL Rookie Offensive Player of the Year: Sherman Smith, Atlanta Falcons
NFL Defensive Player of the Year: Harry Carson, Seattle Seahawks

Interesting Notes: Cincinnati quarterback Ken Anderson threw for a record 4,490 yards . . . Anderson's favorite target was Charlie Joiner who caught a record 100 balls for 1,694 yards . . . First-team All-Pro running back O.J. Simpson set records for attempts (402) and rushing TDs (15) . . . Atlanta's Rolland Lawrence was the first play in league history to intercept 10 passes in one season . . . Super Bowl MVP Lawrence McCutheon of the Rams rushed 22 times for 176 yards, including a 74-yard TD run . . . Playoff teams were Miami, Pittsburgh, San Diego, Cincinnati, Indianapolis and New England from the AFC and Los Angeles, Atlanta, Minnesota, Dallas, Philadelphia and Washington from the NFC.

[RetroNFL]

Changes obviously need to be made after a disappointing season. The Bears' biggest move was the hiring of 62-year-old Darnell Barber as head coach. Barber has a track record of developing quarterbacks, something Chicago desparately needs. Barber received a three-year contract worth $1.11 million.

Since the Bears plan on pursuing QB upgrades in free agency, wide receive Steve Schubert and defensive tackle Roger Stillwell were both released.

Promising running back Bubba Bean was sent to play in the NFL's summer league. The Bears re-signed quarterback Joe Reed to a two-year, $1.04 million contract.

Free Agency: Chicago signed the following free agents:

QB Archie Manning for $480,000/2 years
RB Chuck Foreman for $220,000/1 year

Most observers feel Manning (pictured below) doesn't have much left in his career. However, Coach Barber likes the idea of Reed and Manning pushing each other in training camp. In addition, whichever emerges as the opening day starter, the other will provide a solid backup.

Just two seasons ago, Foreman was a key component to the Minnesota Vikings' run to the Super Bowl. Foreman gives Walter Payton a break from heavy-carry games. He also provides veteran leadership and is someone who is a talented receiver out of the backfield.

Draft Needs: Following a five-win season, the Bears need many things. The offensive line and defense appear to be the main targets. The secondary needs a serious upgrade. Look for a balanced draft with perhaps a late flyer taken on a kicker or wide receiver.

Chicago's two first-round pick are No. 8 and No. 23 (acquired from New England).

[MacroGuru]

How did Largent fair his Rookie season?

[RetroNFL]

Steve Largent caught 50 passes for 635 yards (12.7 average) with four touchdowns. HIs longest catch was for 54 yards.

[RetroNFL]

The Bears addressed one of their needs in the defensive secondary through a pre-draft trade.

Chicago sent fullback Roland Harper and a fifth-round draft pick to Pittsburgh for strong safety Donnie Shell. The 5-foot-11, 196-pound Shell was the backline defender for the Steelers' Super Bowl championship team two seasons ago. Shell, a four-year RetroNFL veteran, is well known for being a strong hitter.


The Bears also attempted pull off a trade with Memphis for defensive end Elvin Bethea. Chicago's offer included a running back and the No. 23 overall pick in the upcoming draft, but the Showboats refused to part with Bethea, a fan favorite.

Chicago also tried to move up in the draft, but both Birmingham (No. 2 overall) and Seattle (No. 3) were unwilling to deal the pick.

[RetroNFL]

1. Tampa Bay--A.J. Duhe, LB, LSU
2. Birmingham--Sam Adkins, QB, North Alabama
3. Seattle--Matt Robinson, QB, Georgia
4. Detroit--Glenn Carrano, QB, UNLV
5. New York Giants--Tony Dorsett, RB, Pittsburgh
6. Houston--Wade Griffin, T, Mississippi
7. New Orleans--Mike Lucky, QB, Nebraska
8. Chicago--Gary Green, CB, Baylor
9. Baltimore--Charlie Johnson, DT, Columbia
10. Kansas City--Nolan Cromwell, S, Kansas
11. Tampa Bay--Dave Lewis, LB, Southern California
12. Houston--Greg Koch, T, Arkansas
13. Green Bay--Lester Hayes, CB, Texas A&M
14. St. Louis--Bruce Harper, RB, Kutztown
15. San Francisco--Herman Edwards, DB, Cal
16. Denver--Tom Lynch, G, Boston College
17. Oakland--Wilbert Montgomery, RB, Abilene Christian
18. New York Jets--Whitney Wilson, DT, Houston
19. Cleveland--Wilson Faumuina, DT, San Jose State
20. Washington--Kim Bokamper, LB, San Jose State
21. Buffalo--Frank Marion, LB, Florida A&M
22. Dallas--Jimmie Giles, TE, Alcorn State
23. Chicago--Stanley Morgan, WR, Tennessee
24. Minnesota--Wendell Tyler, RB, UCLA
25. Indianapolis--Randy McClanahan, LB, Southwestern Louisiana
26. Philadelphia--Ron McCartney, LB, Tennessee
27. Cincinnati--Eddie Payton, RB, Jackson State
28. San Diego--Hank Bauer, RB, California Lutheran
29. Pittsburgh--Dennis Boyd, DT, Oregon State
30. Atlanta--Mike Fultz, DT, Nebraska
31. Miami--Bob Baumhower, NT, Alabama
32. Los Angeles--Steve August, T, Tulsa


Chicago Bears Draft Picks:
Rnd 1 - Gary Green, CB, Baylor
Rnd 1 - Stanley Morgan, WR, Tennessee
Rnd 2 - Charles Romes, CB, North Central
Rnd 3 - Tim Black, OLB, Baylor
Rnd 4 - Rolf Benirschke, K, California - Davis
Rnd 6 - Billy Bryan, C, Duke

Draft Grade: C-

[RetroNFL]

As the Bears prepare for their 1976 season opener with Minnesota, it's time to reflect on the off-season.

The Good: The Bears appear to be much improved at corner. Rookie Gary Green and Charles Rome will be the opening day starters. Veteran safeties Donnie Shell and Craig Clemons will provide leadership.

The Bad: Running back Walter Payton, the Bears' best player, is questionable for the season opener with a broken toe. He suffered the injury in the third game of the preseason. Doctors say Payton won't be full strength until week three of the regular season.

The Ugly: With Payton ailing, our running game has been rated as the league's worst. Free agent pickup Chuck Foreman will start on opening day against the Vikings, his former team. Youngster Bubba Bean will back up Foreman. Making matters worst is that our offensive line is one of the shakiest in the league. Thus, more pressure will be placed on quarterback Archie Manning who emerged over Joe Reed as the starter.

Exhibition Season Recap: The Bears went 1-3 in the preseason. The lone win came against Denver in the second game. Both San Diego and Miami mauled Chicago.

League Notes: The preseason power rankings have Pittburgh on top. Oakland, Cincinnati and Miami are next on the list. Defending RetroNFL champion Los Angeles is the top ranked NFC team.

[RetroNFL]

With less than a week to go before its 1977 season opener with Minnesota, the Chicago Bears have gambled to upgrade their offensive line.

The Bears traded two players and draft pick to Miami for a pair of veteran offensive linemen.

The deal calls for Chicago to ship center Dan Neal, defensive tackle Ron Rydalich and a second-round pick in the 1978 amateur draft. The draft choice came in a trade last season with New England.

In return, Chicago acquires center Jim Langer and guard Larry Little. Both veterans have been instrumental in Miami's success the past two seasons.

[Izulde]

Nice acquistions from Miami, especially Little IMO.

[RetroNFL]

Originally Posted by Izulde

Nice acquistions from Miami, especially Little IMO.

Thanks, but we'll see. Little and Langer are both a little long in the tooth. I also hated to give up the second-round pick, but I couldn't go into the season with the offensive line I had.

[RetroNFL]

On the the eve of their 1977 opener, the Chicago Bears once again pulled off a trade to bolster their offensive line.

Chicago dealt starting defensive end Mike Hartenstine and backup center Dan Peiffer to Seattle for left tackle Marvin Powell and a fourth-round draft pick in 1979.

Hartenstine, a three-year pro out of Penn State, was second on the Bears with 10 sacks last season. Peiffer lost his starting position when Chicago acquired veteran Jim Langer from Miami in a trade just days ago.

Powell was the second player taken in the second round of the most recent RetroNFL draft. The 6-foot-5, 288-pound rookie played collegiately at USC.

The Bears reportedly attempted to acquire veterans Jon Kolb (Pittsburgh), Doug Dieken (Cleveland) and Doug France (Los Angeles) but were rebuffed. Thus, Chicago settled on Powell.

[RetroNFL]

The Chicago Bears tied 17-17 the two-time defending NFC North champion Minnesota Vikings.

After the Vikings tied the game with just over two minutes remaining in regulation, neither team was able to get within field goal range.

Minnesota quarterback Fran Tarkenton finished the day throwing for 307 yards, but was intercepted two costly times. Tarkenton was 35-for-56, including the game-tying TD toss to tight end Bob Windsor.

Meanwhile, Chicago free agent signee Archie Manning completed 20-of-34 throws for 202 yards and a touchdown. However, Manning was intercepted three times.

Former Minnesota running back Chuck Foreman managed 81 yards on 18 carries against his former team. Foreman, another Bear free agent signing, started in place of the injured Walter Payton.

Week 2 Opponent: Baltimore Colts

[RetroNFL]

Chicago Bears' Record: 5-2-1

The Good: For the first time in RetroNFL history, Chicago sits atop the NFC North. The Bears have won five of their last six games. In addition, Chicago has allowed an NFC low 119 points.

The Bad: The Bear offense has only outscored the one-win, last-place Green Bay Packers by just three points. The offense continues to rely heavily on Walter Payton, the league's sixth leading rusher.

The Ugly: A week six showdown with NFC East leading Dallas turned into a 41-0 rout by the Cowboys. Chicago QBs threw four interceptions, including three by backup Joe Reed in a little over one quarter.

Up Next: The Bears travel to Minnesota to play the second-place Vikings (4-3-1). The winner of the game will take control of the division and hold the all-important tie breaker.

[RetroNFL]

Final Season Record: 7-8-1, 2nd Place in the NFC North

Season Summary: It was a tale of two seasons. The first half saw the Bears as a playoff contender. However, following a 27-3 loss to Minnesota to open the second half, the wheels quickly came off Chicago's cart. The franchise faces numerous questions heading into the off-season.

The Good: Despite missing the season opener with an injury, running back Walter Payton managed to finish sixth among RetroNFL rushers with 1.354 yards (3.6 average). Payton scored 10 touchdowns. In addition, Payton was the league's 11th leading receiver with 70 catches (7.53 average) and three TDs.

The Bad: The promise of the season's first half went up in smoke in the final eight games. The Bears lost six of those eight, including four in a row.

The Ugly: The Chicago defense fell apart in the second half of the season. The Bears gave up an average of 23.2 points per game. It's never a good sign when a safety is the team's leading tackler. In this case it was Donnie Shell.

[RetroNFL]

Super Bowl '77: Pittsburgh Steelers 23, Los Angeles Rams 21
Super Bowl MVP: Terry Bradshaw, Pittsburgh Steelers

NFL Player of the Year: O.J. Simpson, Buffalo Bills
NFL Offensive Player of the Year: O.J. Simpson, Buffalo Bills
NFL Defensive Player of the Year: Lyle Alzado, Denver Broncos

NFL Rookie Offensive Player of the Year: Wendell Tyler, Minnesota Vikings
NFL Defensive Player of the Year: A.J. Duhe, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Interesting Notes: Pittsburgh won its second Super Bowl in three years when Ian Sunter kicked a 24-yard field goal with just four seconds left. The Steelers' L.C. Greenwood blocked a 19-yard FG attempt at the two-minute warning. Terry Bradshaw then marched Pittsburgh into FG range. The Steeler QB won his second Super Bowl MVP . . . Buffalo's O.J. Simpson won his second rushing title en route to his second Player of the Year award . . . Pittsburgh's Terry Bradshaw completed an amazing 72.9% of his passes for 3,383 yards. He threw for 32 touchdowns while being intercepted only five times . . . Cincinnati wide receiver Charlie Joiner caught a league-high 91 passes for 1,499 yards and 17 TDs . . . Denver Bronco Lyle Alzado set a single-season record with 23.5 sacks . . . Atlanta defensive back Rolland Lawrence intercepted a record 14 passes . . . AFC playoff teams were Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Memphis, Miami, Oakland and Denver. NFC playoff qualifiers were Los Angeles, Minnesota, Dallas, San Francisco and Philadelphia.

[RetroNFL]

The Bears made no coaching changes. Head coach Darnell Barber, offensive coordinator Glenn Wayne and defensive coordinator Benjamin Hobson are all under contract. However, the upcoming season is considered a make-or-break year for the staff.

As far as player decisions go, the biggest was to release backup quarterback Joe Reed. The surprise starter two seasons ago, Reed lost his job to veteran free agent Archie Manning last year. Reed played poorly, and the $490,000 cap cost was a large factor in the team's decision. Perennial backups Adrian Farr and Jamie Easterling were also not offered contracts. Thus, Chicago will most likely either draft a quarterback or pursue one during free agency.

In addition, the Bears allowed inconsistent defensive end Gary Hrivnak to walk. Most likely, the former Purdue star will fetch a high salary on the free agent market. However, the Chicago coaching staff was not happy with his work ethic and attitude.
Offensive tackle Marvin Powell was sent to work on his game in the summer league.

[RetroNFL]

This proved to be the busiest free agency period in franchise history. Chicago was an active bidder on a number of players. In the end the Bears signed defensive end John Zook ($640,000/2 years), right tackle Vern Holland ($1.08 million/2 years) and quarterback James Harris ($280,000/1 year).

Zook (pictured below) played with Atlanta last season. He brings playoff experience to our defense. Holland also played a key role in the Memphis Showboats' playoff run last year. Harris, a journeyman at best, is with his fourth team in four years.

The proverbial big fish that got away were former Minnesota middle linebacker Ed Bradley and kicker Horst Muhlmann, who after flirting with both Chicago and Atlanta wound up resigning with Philadelphia. The Eagles also landed former Bear defensive end Gary Hrivnak to a $4.55 million deal over four years.

Veteran linebacker Doug Buffone announced his retirement.

The amateur draft is up next. Chicago holds the 15th overall pick. The Bears have picks in all rounds with the exception of the fifth.

[RetroNFL]

1. Baltimore--Earl Campbell, RB, Texas
2. Phoenix--Clay Matthews, LB, USC
3. New Orleans--James Lofton, WR, Stanford
4. New York Giants--Al "Bubba" Baker, DE, Colorado State
5. Green Bay--Doug Williams, QB, Grambling
6. Washington--Dave Browning, DE, Washington
7. Tampa Bay--John Anderson, LB, Michigan
8. San Francisco--Ozzie Newsome, TE, Alabama
9. Birmingham--Estes Hood, CB, Illinois State
10. Seattle--Karl Baldischwiler, T, Oklahoma
11. Detroit--Reggie Doss, DE, Hampton
12. Miami--Billy Campfield, RB, Kansas
13. New York Jets--J.C. Wilson, CB, Central Florida
14. Cleveland--Billy Taylor, RB, Texas Tech
15. New England--Ben Garry, RB, Southern Mississippi*
16. Phoenix--Dave Studdard, T, Texas
17. Chicago--Todd Christensen, TE, Brigham Young
18. San Francisco--Barry Bennett, DE, Morehead State
19. Philadelphia--Ron Johnson, CB, Eastern Michigan
20. Minnesota--Paul Coffman, TE, Kansas State
21. Kansas City--Dennis Harrison, DE, Vanderbilt
22. Buffalo--Bobby Jackson, CB, Florida State
23. Indianapolis--Marvin Switzer, S, Kansas State
24. Memphis--Chris Ward, T, Ohio State
25. Atlanta--Ross Browner, DE, Notre Dame
26. Oakland--Keith Butler, LB, Memphis
27. Miami--Bobby Jones, WR, Youngstown State
28. Dallas--Deacon Turner, RB, San Diego State
29. Cincinnati--Terry Jones, DT, Alabama
30. Denver--Mickey Shuler, TE, Penn State
31. Los Angeles--Rod Parker, WR, Tennessee State
32. Pittsburgh--Mark Iwanowski, TE, Penn


*acquired in trade with Chicago

Chicago Bears' Amateur Draft Report:
Rnd 1 - Todd Christensen, TE, Brigham Young
Rnd 2 - Blair Bush, C, Washington
Rnd 3 - Brad Shearer, DT, Texas
Rnd 4 - Craig Colquitt, P, Tennessee
Rnd 4 - Dan Doornink, FB, Washington State
Rnd 6 - Will Grant, C, Kentucky
Rnd 7 - Fred Quillan, C, Oregon

Draft Grade: B

[RetroNFL]

Shortly after the amateur draft, Chicago completed a trade with Tampa Bay. The Bears sent punter Bob Parsons and a 1980 sixth-round draft pick to the Bucs for offensive tackle Ted Peterson and a 1979 fourth-round pick.

The drafting of Craig Colquitt made Parson available. The Bears had their eyes on Peterson of Eastern Illinois in last year's draft.

While Chicago lost defensive end Phil Olsen in late free agency to Pittsburgh, the Bears inked defensive veterans Claude Humphrey ($320,000/1 year) and Bubba Smith ($910,000/2 years).

Former Bear quarterback Joe Reed signed a one-year deal with rival Green Bay.

[RetroNFL]

With the 1978 home opener with arch-rival Green Bay just days away, here's a glimpse at the Bears.

The Good: Versatile Walter Payton enters his fourth season and has become one of the league's great running backs. The team's wide receivers led by emerging youngsters Steve Largent and Stanley Morgan also appears on the verge of great things.

The Bad: Questions continue to plague Chicago's defensive front and key spots in the offensive line. However, the most puzzling piece has been the quarterback position. Archie Manning, last year's starter and free agent addition, is dead even with Robinson Ford. Ford came to the Bears as a late-free agenct ($200,000/1 year). The former Birmingham Stallion finds himself in what Chicago coaches have termed "a sorry race" with Manning. Journeyman James Harris will be the team's No. 3 QB.

The Ugly: Injuries have again bitten the Bears in the preseason. Promising tight end Jay Saldi is again suffering from shoulder tendinitis. Last season, Saldi didn't get healthy until week eight. But the most damaging injury is to left tackle Marvin Powell, who broke his clavicle and will be out for at least three weeks.

Exhibition Season Recap: The Bears finished the preseason with a 2-2 record. After an opening 9-3 win over the New York Jets, Chicago lost two straight games (San Diego and Buffalo) before shutting out Oakland 13-0 in the finale.

League Notes: The preseason power rankings have Pittburgh on top. Oakland, fresh off an A+ rated draft, comes in second. The Los Angeles Rams edge Dallas as the NFC's top ranked teams.

[RetroNFL]

With an eye toward the future, the Chicago Bears completed two trades for first-round picks.

In the first deal, the Bears dealt a 1979 first-round draft pick they had acquired in a previous deal from New England along with a fourth-round selection to Birmingham for the Stallions' first-round choice.

The second trade sent Chicago's original 1979 first-round selection and its second-round pick to Tampa Bay for the Bucs' top choice.

"Some may view it as a gamble they wouldn't take before the season has played out," said Chicago GM Ray Vaughn. "But, they are risks we are willing to take."

Many question whether the Bears will be able to sign two potentially high-priced draft picks in the same draft. However, insiders look for Chicago to potentially make another draft day move with one of the picks.

[RetroNFL]

The Chicago Bears roared in their 1978 season opener.

The Bears raced to a 20-0 halftime lead and then held on for a 30-22 victory over their arch-rivals, the Green Bay Packers.

Running back Walter Payton collected 191 all-purpose yards. Payton carried the ball 28 times for 114 yards and caught nine balls for another 77 yards.

Veteran quarterback Archie Manning got the starting nod over free agent addition Robinson Ford. Manning completed 18-of-28 throws for 202 yards and two touchdowns.

Second-year defensive back Gary Green had two interceptions, including a 12-yard TD.

Next Game: at Miami

[RetroNFL]

Chicago Bears' Record: 4-4

The Good: Walter Payton, of course. Sweetness ranks second among RetroNFL rushers with 813 yards and five touchdowns. In addition, Sir Walter is fourth in receiving with 44 catches and three TDs.

The Bad: The Bears have had more ups and downs than a Hollywood marriage. After winning their opener against Green Bay, Chicago lost three straight. A three-game winning streak followed before a loss to Atlanta.

The Ugly: The Bears have been in hiberation on the road, going 1-3 thus far. Chicago will face Green Bay in a likely first-place showdown in two weeks. The Packers lead the Bears by one game in the division race.

Up Next: The second half of the season opens at Tampa Bay. A win would be a double-fold dividend as the Bears hold the Bucs' first-round draft pick.

[RetroNFL]

Final Season Record: 8-8, 2nd Place in the NFC North

Season Summary: Chicago's .500 record is a perfect reflection of the season. The Bears were a team good enough not to be bad, but mediocre enough not to be playoff worthy.

The Good: Running back Walter Payton finished second to Denver's Otis Armstrong in rushing. Payton carried the ball 382 times for 1,554 yards (4.07 average) and 10 touchdowns. He finished eighth among receivers with 76 catches for 712 yards (9.3 average) and four scores.

The Bad: The quarterback position continues to hold the Bears back. Archie Manning suffered through an injury-plagued second half of the season. Backup James Harris struggled with six interceptions in three late-season starts.

The Ugly: Green Bay, the Bears' arch-rival, won the NFC North and heads into the playoffs with a 10-6 record. The Packers' QB? None other than ex-Bear Joe Reed who was not resigned by Chicago. To add insult to injury, division rival Detroit holds the first pick in the draft thanks to its dismal 2-14 record. Notre Dame quarterback Joe Montana will be the Lions' likely choice.

League Note: Cincinnati made a strong bid for a perfect regular season by winning its first 15 games. However, rival Pittsburgh beat the Bengals 37-17 on the final Sunday of the year.

[RetroNFL]

Super Bowl '78: Cincinnati Bengals 38, Dallas Cowboys 13
Super Bowl MVP: Ken Anderson, Cincinnati Bengals

NFL Player of the Year: Walter Payton, Chicago Bears
NFL Offensive Player of the Year: Walter Payton, Chicago Bears
NFL Defensive Player of the Year: John Dutton, Indianapolis Racers

NFL Rookie Offensive Player of the Year: Billy Campfield, Miami Dolphins
NFL Defensive Player of the Year: Ross Browner, Atlanta Falcons

Bears' Post-Season Awards
First Team RB--Walter Payton
Second Team C--Jim Langer
Second Team S--Donnie Shell

Interesting Notes: Denver's Otis Armstrong won the rushing title with 1,735 yards . . . Atlanta QB Steve Bartkowski set league records with 4,559 yards and 33 touchdowns . . . Cincinnati wide out Charlie Joiner again led the league in receptions, this time around with a record 105 catches . . . Ken Anderson threw for a Super Bowl record 315 yards, including 135 to Charlie Joiner . . . Detroit Lion Ed O'Neil registered 151 tackles for a single-season record . . . The AFC playoff teams were Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Denver, Miami, Pittsburgh and Oakland . . . The NFC playoff teams were Green Bay, Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles, Washington and Phoenix.

[RetroNFL]

Head coach Darnell Barber was fired following the season. Offensive coordinator Glenn Wayne signed a $1.86 million/five-year deal with Oakland.

Chicago filled these vacancies by hiring 48-year-old Leon Burnett as its new head coach. Burnett inked a $1.3 million/three-year contract.

Harvey Adano was then brought in as the new offensive coordinator. He received a one year contract worth $940,000.

Chuck Money was also signed as the head scout ($150,000/three years).

Reserve center Blair Bush was sent to play in the summer league.

[RetroNFL]

The Chicago Bears have acquired the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming 1979 RetroNFL amateur draft.

The Bears agreed to send four picks to Detroit in exchange for the top selection. The Lions, 2-14 last season, get Chicago's first-round pick the next two seasons, a third-round pick in 1980 and a second-round pick in the 1981 draft.

"It's a hefty price to pay," said Chicago GM Ray Vaughn. "But, we're willing to take the chance for our future."

Detroit will now pick at No. 5, the slot Chicago had acquired from a trade last season with Tampa Bay.

The Bears also own the 20th pick in the first round, the result of their 8-8 season this past year.

Bears' management is now in the process of interviewing potential players and agents to use the top pick on.

[RetroNFL]

The Chicago Bears have signed three players to contract extensions.

The Bears inked running back Bubba Bean and linebacker Ed Simonini to one-year, $230,000 contracts.

Chicago also locked up left tackle Marvin Powell to a multi-year deal reportedly for $6.29 million for four years.

Contract negotiations continue with defensive end Mike St. Clair, the team's second-leading pass rusher a year ago. St. Clair has one year remaining on his contract.

[Autumn]

Montana in Chicago? Montana and Payton? This could get interesting.

[RetroNFL]

Veteran left guard Larry Little has announced his retirement, leaving the Chicago Bears searching for new blood in their offensive line.

The 33-year-old former Miami Dolphin spent last season with the Bears. A 1975 second team All-Pro, Little suffered from nagging ailments to his knees.

Chicago will most likely turn to the free agency or the upcoming amateur draft to fill the void.

Bear Tracks: In other news, Chicago renegotiated the contract of middle linebacker Tom Hicks. The University of Illinois product received a $7.56/five-year payday. Meanwhile,Chicago did not renew the contracts of quarterbacks Archie Manning, James Harris and Adrian Farr. Safety Phil Bias was also not renewed. The Bears are still hopeful of re-signing right tackle Jeff Sevy.

[RetroNFL]

Originally Posted by Autumn

Montana in Chicago? Montana and Payton? This could get interesting.

That's the plan, but it came at a high price.

[RetroNFL]

The Chicago Bears came out growling in free agency.

"We planned on being aggressive," said Bears' GM Ray Vaughn. "It's time to move forward with this franchise."

Chicago wound up signing four new players to contracts and bringing back a few of its own.

Offensive tackle Jeff Sevy was re-signed by the team. The 6-foot-3, 303-pounder from Cal inked a five-year deal worth $6.2 million.

The Bears also brought back safety Phil Bias and quarterback Robinson Ford on one-year deals.

Meanwhile, Chicago landed veteran quarterback and former Heisman Trophy winner Jim Plunkett ($380,000/one year). Insiders believe Plunkett is being brought in to mentor likely No. 1 draft choice Joe Montana from Notre Dame.

The Bears also landed fullback Cleo Miller ($310,000/one year), defensive tackle Alan Page ($1.14 million/two years) and defensive end Pat Toomay ($1.1 million/two years) via free agency.

"With free agency behind us and the upcoming draft just weeks away, we're excited about the future of the Chicago Bears," Vaughn said.

[RetroNFL]

1. Chicago--Joe Montana, QB, Notre Dame
2. New York Giants--Phil Simms, QB, Morehead State
3. Seattle--Mike Moroski, QB, Cal-Davis
4. New Orleans--Mark Gastineau, DE, Arizona State
5. Detroit--Jeff Rutledge, QB, Alabama
6. Houston--Jerry Robinson, LB, UCLA
7. Cleveland--Fred Smerlas, DT, Boston College
8. San Francisco--Dave Logan, DT, Pittsburgh
9. Tampa Bay--Kellen Winslow, TE, Missouri (trade with Baltimore)
10. Memphis--Ottis Anderson, RB, Miami
11. St. Louis--Frank Manumaleuga, LB, UCLA
12. Minnesota--Larry Braziel, CB, USC
13. Kansas City--George Andrews, LB, Nebraska
14. Philadelphia--Eddie Lee Ivery, RB, Georgia Tech
15. Buffalo--John Geisler, T, Michigan
16. Tampa Bay--Dan Hampton, DE, Arkansas
17. San Diego--Charles Johnson, DT, Maryland
18. Birmingham--Earnest Gray, WR, Memphis
19. New York Jets--Bruce Thornton, DE, Illinois
20. Chicago--Dwight Clark, WR, Clemson
21. Phoenix--Cody Risien, T, Texas A&M
22. Oakland--Don Bessillieau, S, Georgia Tech
23. Atlanta--Tom Cousineau, LB, Ohio State
24. Denver--Ed Burns, QB, Nebraska
25. Green Bay--Roy Green, WR, Henderson State
26. Washington--Willie McClendon, RB, Georgia
27. Indianapolis--Joe McLaughlin, LB, UMass
28. Miami--Bruce Radford, DT, Grambling
29. Los Angeles--Jim Kovach, LB, Kentucky
30. Pittsburgh--Manu Tuiasosopo, DT, UCLA
31. Dallas--Johnny Lynn, CB, UCLA
32. Cincinnati--Doug Cosbie, TE, Holy Cross


Chicago Bears' Amateur Draft Report:
Rnd 1 - Joe Montana, QB, Notre Dame
Rnd 1 - Dwight Clark, WR, Clemson
Rnd 3 - Charles Alexander, FB, Louisiana State
Rnd 4 - Russell Erxleben, P, Texas
Rnd 4 - Kit Lathrop, DT, Arizona State
Rnd 5 - Chuck Fusina, QB, Penn State
Rnd 6 - Neal Olkewicz, ILB, Maryland
Rnd 7 - Tom Higgins, ILB, North Carolina State

Draft Grade: B

[RetroNFL]

History told the Chicago Bears they need a quality quarterback to increase their chances of success. Thus, the Bears were willing to trade four picks for the rights to the No. 1 pick.

Complicating the decision was the fact that the team that held the top selection was a division rival, the Detroit Lions. Did the Bears help Detroit's future chances immensely with the trade? Time will tell.

For now, the Bears got their man--Notre Dame quarterback Joe Montana. Chicago was duly impressed by not only what its scouts had to say about Montana, but also by the Bears' pre-draft interview with him.

"Joe Montana is that rare breed of quarterback every team wants," Chicago GM Ray Vaughn said.

After choosing Montana, the Bears then began working the phones. They hoped to move up in the draft from No. 20 to take defensive end Dan Hampton from Arkansas. However, no such trade was pulled off. Hampton wound up being taken by Tampa Bay with the 16th pick.

The Bears then attempted to trade down. However, nothing satisfactory could not be ironed out with Oakland, Atlanta or Denver.

Thus, Chicago mulled over which player to take. Tackle Cody Risien offered a solid player to strengthen the offensive line. Receivers Roy Green and Dwight Clark were also in the mix. While Green graded out higher and offered much more of a deep threat, the Bears liked Clark's 6-foot-4 frame and the intangibles he brought to the table.

"Dwight has those remarkable things that don't show up on a stat sheet," Vaughn said. "He impressed us with virtually everything he did during his workouts and interview."

Risien was taken with the draft's next pick by Phoenix. Green Bay wound up with Green at No. 25. Will the Bears being haunted by the day they passed over Green? Will a Packer named Green torment the Bears in the coming years?

With no second-round pick, Chicago continued to work the phones until round three. The Bears then stayed with offense by taking fullback Charles Alexander from LSU.

The Bears used a pair of picks in round four to work on improving their defense. After taking Craig Colquitt a year ago, Chicago again drafted a punter. This time around it was Russell Erxleben from Texas. Therefore, veteran Bob Parsons is most likely gone.

Chicago used its second fourth rounder on defensive tackle Kit Lathrop of Arizona State.

Taking Penn State quarterback Chuck Fusina in round five raised a few eyebrows, but Vaughn stood by his selection.

"Like Joe Montana, Chuck Fusina comes from a winning program," said the Chicago GM. "We want players who are used to winning and know how to win."

Finally, Chicago tabbed inside linebackers Neal Olkewicz (Maryland) and Tom Higgins (North Carolina State) in the final two rounds.

[DataKing]

Montana wearing the navy and orange? I love it! The days of Chicago being a QB wasteland are officially at an end!