BAD SEASON FOR GOODNESS’ SAKE

In likely losing year, Bears need to develop Fields, secure high pick

In the midst of general manager Ryan Poles’ roster teardown that has left the Bears with a dearth of proven players, there was a brief flicker of hope Tuesday when No. 96 was spotted doing calisthenics with teammates on the far practice field behind the Walter Payton Center.

Could it be? Could Poles have thrown Bears fans a bone and re-signed Akiem Hicks to fortify a no-name defensive line?

Alas, it was not to be. It turned out that No. 96 actually was LaCale London, a second-year defensive lineman who spent most of last season on injured reserve and the practice squad.

That No. 96 was Hicks last season and is London this season is a fitting illustration of just how big of a transition the Bears are going through from former GM Ryan Pace to Poles.

Gone are Hicks, linebacker Khalil Mack, wide receiver Allen Robinson, guard James Daniels, nose tackle Eddie Goldman and defensive end Bilal Nichols among others. In are a bunch of draft picks and a nondescript group of free agents.

At least three rookies — cornerback Kyler Gordon, safety Jaquan Brisker and wide receiver Velus Jones — will be given every chance to start in 2022. The free-agent haul — defensive tackle Justin Jones,

The Bears will be challenged to develop QB Justin Fields and keep him healthy with a limited roster in 2022.