Chicago Bears: 10 bold predictions for 2019 NFL free agency

4. Bears re-sign Aaron Lynch

One of the surprises for me last season was the fact that Aaron Lynch actually made the roster. After having missed most of training camp and the preseason and being injured three separate times before the season began, I didn’t see any way he made the final 53.

In the end, he snuck on, and boy did that decision pay off.

Lynch became a very formidable pass rusher within this Bears defense. Having absolutely zero pressure on his back to play at an elite level, thanks to the guys around him, Lynch played far better than I would have expected.

In 2018, Lynch tallied eight quarterback hits, four tackles for loss, three sacks, an interception and a pass defensed. Out of a backup, having only made three starts all season, that’s more than enough to earn another contract.

The Bears will need to ensure their depth at the outside linebacker position, and that begins with Lynch. Rookie Kylie Fitts looked lost at times last year, and health has been an issue for him in the past. Isaiah Irving is someone I could see the Bears retaining, but he wasn’t nearly as effective at creating pressure as Lynch was.

Lynch looked motivated. He looked rejuvenated. I would gladly extend him another deal if I’m Pace, and I think that’s exactly what happens.