Chicago Bears: Previewing potential Bears roster moves

Defensive front seven

There are major question marks along the front seven. Next to Akiem Hicks and Eddie Goldman, there is an opening at the end position. Mitch Unrein could be brought back, but if he’s not Muhammad Wilkerson could be brought in on an incentive laden deal. Also, if Ndamukong Suh is cut from the Dolphins, then maybe they bring him in for around $10-11 million per season. I would not give him anywhere close to the $19 million per season that Miami did.

Adding those players would allow players like Jonathan Bullard and Roy Robertson-Harris to not be forced into starting roles. I see them more as rotational players until they prove otherwise.

Arguably the biggest need on the roster is at outside linebacker. As of now, Howard Jones, Isaiah Irving and Leonard Floyd are the only ones under contract.

I wouldn’t mind resigning Lamarr Houston to the veteran minimum. However, that doesn’t solve the problem.

As you can see, free agency is very weak at outside linebacker. I like Alex Okafor from the Saints. He flashed a lot of potential, before going down with an Achilles injury. He could get $7-8 million per season. Another option is Aaron Lynch, who is familiar with Fangio’s defense from his days with the 49ers.

I feel like Pace will attack this position in the draft. I would be shocked if Bradley Chubb was still available at pick 8, so it’s much more likely that Pace targets a guy like Marcus Davenport or Harold Landry.

On Wednesday, Pace also stated that Amos and Goldman are candidates to get an extension. Still, that won’t affect the cap for this season, as both are under their rookie contracts for 2018.

Next: Dion Sims out, Trey Burton coming to Chicago?

As you can see, it’s going to be a crazy offseason for the Chicago Bears. Ryan Pace will be tasked to give head coach Matt Nagy a roster that can potentially compete for a playoff spot next season.

Let’s see if they can get it done.