Marc Trestman: Bears' Draft will Focus on Defense

In a league where every coach and general manager tries to remain as cryptic as possible, it's noteworthy when any team announces its intentions prior to draft day. That's doubly true when it comes from a division rival.

At his Thursday press conference from the NFL Combine, Bears head coach Marc Trestman declared that Chicago's main goal is to focus on its defense in the upcoming NFL draft.

For what it's worth, even a layman could have guessed the Bears' draft plans. Last season, Chicago finished 30th in total yards allowed and points given up. The Bears were also the only team to allow over five yards per rush attempt. Against the Packers specifically last year, Chicago gave up on average 5.7 yards per rush attempt. With aging stars such as Lance Briggs, Charles Tillman, and Julius Peppers all potentially gone by the start of next season, it only makes sense for GM Phil Emery to add reinforcements through the draft.

Given that the Bears and Packers possess similar defensive needs (chiefly safety and linebacker), it's possible the teams will be in the hunt for the same players. While neither Phil Emery nor Ted Thompson have a track record to aggressively targeting prospects and trading up, having the two divisional foes trying to outmaneuver each other on draft day would make for some interesting theater. It's not likely to happen, but damn if it wouldn't be entertaining.