What to Expect From Michael Schofield
Finally, the Chicago Bears may have found an answer for the gaping hole at right guard. The Bears signed right guard/tackle, Michael Schofield. The 6-foot-6, 300-pound lineman was brought in to fill the gap left by an already questionable, but now injured, Dakota Dozier. This position has been one of concern all offseason and finally, the front office did something about it.
Schofield, entering his ninth year, packs some experience. He was drafted by the Broncos and earned a ring blocking for Peyton Manning. After just two years with the team that drafted him, Schofield made his way to Los Angeles to block for Philip Rivers and the Chargers. He spent three years in L.A. before returning in 2021 after a one-year stint with the Panthers.
Bears signing veteran OL Michael Schofield, via @kfishbain. How we feeling about this pick up?#Bears #BearDown #DaBears #NFL #thesickpodcast pic.twitter.com/ru1tD9dfXx
— The Sick Podcast with Adam Rank (@sickpodadamrank) July 25, 2022
THE POSITIVES
Schofield started 81 of his 102 career games, so he comes with experience against the best. He has also become more disciplined since his Denver years, accumulating only a few penalties per season since he left. He’s also versatile and has played tackle and guard as a professional, so he provides flexibility in case injuries deplete the line. As a tackle for the Chargers, he allowed just two sacks. According to PFF’s pass blocking grades, Schofield was the ninth-best pass blocker last year. Meanwhile, Justin Fields was the tenth-most sacked QB while only playing twelve games. Match all of that with the fact that he’s been in an offense like the one Luke Getsy is trying to instill, and I think Chicago found a good fit.
THINGS TO KEEP AN EYE ON
Despite looking pretty good in the pass blocking space, Schofield ranked 59th out of 83 graded guards in run blocking. This will make things a bit tougher for David Montgomery as he enters his contract year. Since we are discussing running, a big concern of mine is his ability to move the pocket. After nine years of blocking for pocket passers like Manning and Rivers, it would be fair to assume that Schofield’sworks best in a stationary pocket. It will be interesting to see what the lineman brings to the table when Fields leaves the pocket.
A BIG IMPROVEMENT
Despite Schofield needing some improvement, I love this signing, and Poles filled a big hole. As an Orland Park native, Schofield is familiar with Chicago and should be able to pick up the team’s stated culture quite quickly. TIn return, Chicago gets talented. veteran leadership, something an O-line that is comprised of mostly first and second-year players needs. His experience will give him a leg up on learning the new offense. Additionally, Schofield should know his assignments right away which will allow him to somewhat tutor the younger linemen. Most importantly, Schofield will help keep Fields upright and focused on getting the ball downfield.
