On Monday, at a news conference held by Chicago Bears team president Ted Phillips to discuss the firing of coach John Fox who was fired after the Bears finished last in the NFC North for the third season, Phillips announced about the extension of the contract with general manager Ryan Pace. Even though Pace holds 14-34 record in his three seasons as the Bears general manager, the contract extension will now keep him in Chicago through 2021.
This time, Pace will get another chance to see his plan through. Phillips told the media persons at the conference, “He’s earned the opportunity to see his plan to fruition.” Phillips also confirmed that Pace would not lose any power either. He will be allowed to make the final decision on the team’s next coaching hire.
The pace was hired as the Bears’ general manager in the year 2015 for a five-year contract. Now, the contract has been extended for two years tenure. Pace shined out during the 2017 NFL draft, trading up to the No. 2 overall pick to select quarterback Mitchell Trubisky.
In Trubisky’s 12 rookie games, he has a record with mixed results, having input in picking the next coach. So, Pace’s future depends on Trubisky. If Trubisky flops, Pace will too. But if Trubisky becomes the franchise savior that the Bear’s have been searching for quite some time, then Pace will likely get to enjoy a lengthy stay in Chicago.
Even though Pace deserves credit for bringing in a strong defense, he also deserves for his fair share of mistakes. To put it in simple words, the Bear’s have not yet won enough games under Pace. So now with this contract extension, Pace sure has the second chance to turn things around that he cannot afford to miss out this time.
