Chicago Bears Free Agency: Overlooked defensive players still available
By Usayd Koshul
As the second wave of NFL free agency approaches, what are some underrated free agents that would make sense for the Chicago Bears?
There’s no denying the fact that Ryan Pace and the Chicago Bears are on a mission this offseason. Last season’s playoff appearance was the closest the Chicago Bears were to the Super Bowl since the 2010-2011 season.
In just the first week of free agency alone, the Bears brought in five new players. While none of these signings were viewed as “splash” moves by anyone, the Bears added underrated talent to a roster that is already filled with quality talent at multiple positions.
In a league like the NFL, having too much depth is never a bad thing, whether it is on offense or defense. Whether it is a seasoned veteran or a young player, the free agent pool always gives teams an opportunity for teams to find a diamond in the rough.
As of right now, it’s safe to say that the Bears defense is one of the most proven units in the NFL. The defense features elite talent like Eddie Jackson and Khalil Mack, but then also has quality talent like Eddie Goldman, Akiem Hicks, and Leonard Floyd.
However, there are a few positions on the Bears defense that could use a bit of depth. One position is outside linebacker. Although Leonard Floyd and Khalil Mack are penciled in as starters for the foreseeable future, the Bears lack a quality depth option behind them.
Two other positions that could use a bit of depth are defensive end and safety. At defensive end, the Bears lack a solid, consistent starter opposite Akiem Hicks. In 2018, Bilal Nichols, Roy Robertson-Harris, and Jonathan Bullard split time starting.
At safety, Eddie Jackson and Ha Ha Clinton-Dix are expected to be the starters for 2019. However, the pieces behind them don’t exactly give one the most confidence. It’ll be interesting to see Deon Bush, John Franklin III, and maybe a veteran or rookie battle it out in training camp.
As NFL Free Agency continues, what are some names on defense the Bears could sign to cheap deals to shore up depth and get ready to make a Super Bowl run? We’ll examine those today.