Chicago Bears: 5 things we know after first wave of free agency

2. The Bears will address both sides of the trenches in this year’s draft.

After spending big-time on the players they have thus far, the Bears will likely see a haul of linemen brought in via this year’s NFL Draft. Both sides need some work, and this year’s class features some viable options.

Of course, one of the biggest names overall would be Notre Dame guard Quenton Nelson. While he is viewed by many as one of the top five players in the draft as a whole, the chances he falls to the Bears are still relatively high.

Because of the quarterback-needy teams ahead of them, the Bears could have a solid chance at landing Nelson. If they do not, a guy like Will Hernandez, pictured above, would certainly suffice in the second or third round.

Replacing Josh Sitton will be key in the coming days, as will finding someone to start opposite Akiem Hicks. If Chicago trades back in the first round like many believe they could, guys like Vita Vea or Da’Ron Payne could become attractive targets.

What we know for certain, regardless, is that the Bears will come away with at least one lineman on both sides, if not more. I would be shocked if Pace chose not to draft a few of the big guys in April.