Chicago Bears Rumors: Assessing a potential Shaq Lawson trade

Where Lawson fits

The easy answer, here, would be anywhere. At this point, the Bears just need somebody — anybody. Alright, that is a bit of an exaggeration. But, times may be getting a bit desperate if Chicago wants to see any form of a pass rush this coming season.

First of all, Lawson is listed at 6-foot-3, 267 pounds. By comparison, a guy like Lynch is 6-foot-6, 245 pounds and Fitts is listed at 6-foot-4, 269 pounds. So, Lawson is a bit shorter and on the heavier side for an outside linebacker.

Lawson may fit more as a 4-3 defensive end, but he could potentially find a spot at outside linebacker. Let’s not forget, Akiem Hicks stands at 6-foot-5, 324 pounds. So, to say Lawson is a surefire defensive end would be somewhat misleading.

He has experience rushing the passer from a standing position, without a doubt. In fact, his first NFL sack was from that stance — and it was on a guy by the name of Tom Brady.

In two seasons with the Bills, Lawson has posted just 6.0 sacks — four of them coming last year. He is on record of talking about how he knows he needs to play up to his first-round draft stock this season. He has the physical tools to do it, and he could do it with the Bears.

I have to imagine that Vic Fangio would love to get his hands on a young talent like Lawson. At Clemson, he was one of the best pass rushers in all of the country and had (still has) plenty of potential at just 24 years old.

The Bears need to do something. The Bills look like they are ready to throw the towel in already. This might be a match made in heaven.