NFL Draft: 1983 Draft the Gold Standard for the Chicago Bears

April 9, 2011   ·   Keith Grieve   ·   Jump to comments

Chicago Bears general manager Jerry Angelo is one of the more polarizing figures in Chicago sports. Some might say he ranks right up there with Steve Bartman (sorry I had to bring that up). If Angelo is looking for a model of success, look no further than the Bears' selections in the 1983 NFL Draft.
The Bears finished the 1982 season, their first under Mike Ditka, 3-6 (ironically labor woes led a shortened season). They were mediocre to say the least, ranking 22nd offensively and and 13th defensively in the 28-team league.
When draft day came, the Bears put their plan in motion.
With the first of their two picks in the first round, they selected OT Jimbo Covert. Covert would go on to anchor the offensive line into the next decade.
With their second first round pick, they landed WR Willie Gault. Gault would lead the team in receiving yards his rookie year and prove to be the deep threat all championship teams need.
In the second round, the took DB Mike Richardso...

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