The Chicago Bears offense has been nothing short of uninspiring over the last three weeks, outside of a few flashes shown last weekend.
The unit is desperately trying to find it's identity still and simply going through the motions until things finally click.
All of the players on the offensive side of the ball believe things will come together soon and that the unit is close to figuring things out. On Wednesday, the unit got a major boost that will help with doing so.
During Wednesday's practice, veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen practiced for the first time since September 6th. Allen has been dealing with a unfortunate heel injury that has lingered for weeks now and forced him to miss the team's last two games.
Allen's return, albeit as a limited participant, on Wednesday was a positive sign in his progression toward returning to the field. While speaking with the media before practice, head coach Matt Eberflus noted that the injury is "something that's going to get better and stay better."
The offensive problems that have been shown this season by the Bears won't be magically fixed by one player returning to the field. However, Allen's strength and skillset can help the unit take more steps forward.
The first area he can help with is on third down. Allen has been one of the best third down technicians in the entire league throughout the last decade. Through three games, the Bears currently rank 23rd in third down conversion percentage.
There's multiple reasons why Allen is so effective in those situations between his crafty route running ability and sure-handed catches. On Wednesday, Allen's rookie quarterback Caleb Williams added another key trait that makes Allen special.
"To have Allen back, it's gonna be great for our offense," Williams said. "It's just something else that the defense has to worry about throughout this week, and then obviously, on game day. And so it's gonna be great for us. His special talent of getting open in a phone booth is going to be great for us too."
That kind of trait is going to be a major boost for Williams and the rest of the team's passing attack when it comes to completing tough passes in critical situations. Williams recognizes Allen is one of the best at it, and it's something that can take the offense to another level.
