Chicago Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher spent Monday afternoon playing in the most high-profile pickup softball game in the Windy City. For the second consecutive year, he led 10 of his best buddies deep into an undisclosed suburb to play a team created by former Chicago Bulls star and current Charlotte Bobcats part-owner Michael Jordan. Apparently, Jordan was eager for revenge, too.
"Last year we kicked their butts," Urlacher said. "We won both games we played, and we took the first one 20-8."
As much as Urlacher enjoyed the chance to face Jordan again in this secret contest, his upbeat mood also was the result of an offseason once again filled with promise. Despite all the issues surrounding the Bears during the past few months -- from the departure of defensive coordinator Ron Rivera to the contract dispute of Pro Bowl linebacker Lance Briggs to the eight-game suspension of defensive tackle Tank Johnson -- Urlacher remains convinced his team can repeat as NFC champion.
As proof, Urlacher cites the positives from the Bears' defense this offseason. The return of Pro Bowl defenders Tommie Harris and Mike Brown, both of whom were lost to injuries last season, should help immensely. The improved health of cornerback Charles Tillman, who underwent back surgery earlier this year, is another plus. Urlacher even says Briggs' fill-in, second-year linebacker Jamar Williams, has turned some heads with his athleticism during offseason workouts.
"We all know what this team can do, so it's not hard to get up for next season," Urlacher said.
Thanks to Jeffri Chadiha
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