"There is no history of Phil Emery as a general manager as a guide to determine what path he will choose for the Bears in the NFL draft that begins Thursday night. But plenty of signs point to Emery focusing on defense in the next stage of roster building as he works to put the team in position to win immediately. Here are seven reasons why: 1. Follow the money: The Bears have re-signed or added 15 players since free agency opened and the bulk of investments have been on offense. The club has $28.1 million committed to wide receiver Brandon Marshall over the next three seasons. Running back Michael Bush signed for $14 million over four years. Reserve quarterback Jason Campbell will make $3.5 million. It's time to invest in defense. 2. Defensive line has holes: The busy offseason has created flexibility for the Bears but the club still has gaps on the defensive line. One of the first moves in free agency was an effort to sign end Jeremy Mincey but he chose to return to the Jaguars. Even with Israel Idonije back in the mix the Bears have a need for a third defensive end. In the 28 regular-season games since Mark Anderson was released, the third end has produced only two sacks. Plus, the Bears have lost two tackles — Anthony Adams and Amobi Okoye — without replacing them." Read more: http://www.chicagotribune.com/sport...draft-bears-chicago--20120426,0,7276399.story
