Chicago Bears Free Agency: Outside Linebackers

The Chicago Bears have a need at outside linebacker. Here are some options available to them through free agency.

The Chicago Bears ended their 2015 campaign. It was a mostly down season for them, but head coach John Fox and general manager Ryan Pace just finished their first season in Chicago, so the rebuild plan is still in the early stages. Even though they had a losing record, they have raised hopes for the franchise to return to prominence.

The Bears still have a lot holes, but things are not as dire as they were a season ago.

One of the key areas the Chicago Bears need to build up is their pass rush, most notably at outside linebacker.

The team went out and hit it big last offseason by signing Pernell McPhee. McPhee fought through injury, played well on the field and became a vocal leader on the defense.

According to Profootballfocus.com, McPhee was the fourth-highest rated 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL this season. He was all the Chicago Bears could hope for and more.

Lining up on the opposite side is a bit troubling, however. Willie Young was the eleventh-ranked outside linebacker, but he really detests playing there. He sees himself more as a 4-3 defensive end, and having him there when he does not like it could bring trouble.

The Chicago Bears could decide to trade Young and pick up draft picks, which would help the rebuild even more.

The same could be said about Lamarr Houston. He is also unhappy at linebacker, and a move could bring in even more picks. A team can never have enough draft picks.

Sam Acho is the current starter opposite McPhee, but he is better suited as a backup in a rotation.

With that, the Chicago Bears will certainly be looking for a starting outside linebacker. Here are some options through free agency:

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