I don't know about you, but ever since I was a kid, the second I got a brand new toy, I immediately ripped open the box and started playing with it. I couldn't resist.
I am quite certain that is how the Bears' coaches feel about the best new toy they will ever get: Khalil Freaking Mack.
Best new toy ever!
Many are arguing that this is the biggest trade for a defensive player in the history of the NFL. Superstar pass rushers simply don't get traded. This is especially true if the pass rusher in question then very deserving becomes the highest paid defensive player in the NFL.
So of course you play him!
Or do you?
I for one would not even dress him for Sunday's game.
Perhaps you think I'm crazy or just looking to spark a debate. But I am dead serious.
The Bears just guaranteed this guy $90 million. This deal isn't for the next game, or the next six games or the next season, it is for their entire future. They have put all of their eggs in the Mack basket. Missing him for one game is not a big deal. Do you know what is?
Him pulling a hamstring that slows him down all season.
He is an elite athlete. He is relatively young. He has been working out. So why not playing him?
Because he most likely isn't ready for game action. There is a reason the league has a pre-season. While rookies are looking to impress coaches and make the roster, veterans are easing themselves into game shape. Mack has not.
Some may argue he has been training this entire time. But how hard has he been training. I know if I were his agent I would be shadowing him every second of every day. I would wrap him in bubble wrap and tell him not to do anything that could possibly lead to a pulled muscle or a hang nail. He had to train like he had 141 million reasons to stay healthy. I would be shocked if that kind of training allowed him to be ready on Sunday.
I have no idea if Mack is ready or not. Far smarter people than I need to make that choice. But if there is even a sliver of possibility that he isn't ready, he should be wearing a Bears T-Shirt on Sunday.
That being said, I really can't wait to see him play and hope he is ready to go right now!
But there is no way I'd risk the team's future on it.