The Chicago Bears wrapped the 2023 season with a 7-10 record, which included an encouraging 4-2 finish. The offseason is in full swing, which has already included some big decisions: Sticking with head coach Matt Eberflus, the firing of offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, the subsequent hiring of new OC Shane Waldron, and bringing in Eric Washington to be the new defensive coordinator.
For the second straight year, the Bears have the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL draft, and they have an important decision to make at quarterback — run it back with Justin Fields or draft Caleb Williams, who many believe to be a generational talent. It could very well be the most important offseason in recent franchise history.
Here at Bears Wire, we’re going position by position through the 2023 Bears and grading every player. Rounding out our countdown is special teams, where Cairo Santos emerged as the most accurate kicker in franchise history — earning an extension in the process.
K Cairo Santos: A
2023 stats: 35-of-38 (92.1%); 7-of-8 (88%) 50+ yards FGs; 31-of-33 (93.9%) XPs
Cairo Santos made 92.1% of his field goal attempts, including a career-best from 50-plus yards, connecting on 7-of-8. Santos earned a $500,000 bonus for making above 90% of his field goal attempts this season. Santos was especially effective during the month of November, where he earned NFC Special Teams Player of the Month. During that span, Santos led the NFL in field goals made (12), field goals attempted (14) and points (41). He also was a perfect 3-of-3 from 50-plus yards. Santos was one of the offense’s most valuable assets, especially when drives were halted. Whether it was easy field goals or 50-plus, Santos was money. He totaled 136 points, which ranked fifth in the NFL in 2023.
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