Chicago Bears: Potential free agent adds from divisional round
By Ryan Heckman
1. Jack Conklin, Offensive Tackle, Tennessee Titans
First of all, the offensive line might be a bit of a project to fix. Both Bobby Massie and Charles Leno are locked down — and their deals aren’t exactly cheap. Chicago has to find a replacement for Kyle Long at guard, of course, who recently announced his retirement from the NFL.
More from Da Windy City
- 3 takeaways from Chicago Blackhawks shootout loss to Nashville
- Chicago Cubs in the middle of chaos that is Shohei Ohtani’s free agency
- The Chicago Cubs are on a roller coaster of emotions chasing Shohei Ohtani
- Chicago Bears quietly compiling list of head coaching candidates
- Chicago White Sox News: Erick Fedde signs two-year deal
But, the offensive line was not good as a whole. Massie was actually the team’s best lineman before his injury this past season, and Leno still offers a lot to like while much of his 2019 tape was disappointing.
Jack Conklin might be a long shot, but he’s worth looking at. Could the Bears choose to trade Leno or Massie? A team like the New England Patriots, who are known for making deals, could be a potential partner. If Tom Brady returns, they will need some help up front.
The Tennessee Titans were home to the league’s leading rusher this year in Derrick Henry, and Conklin was a big part of that.
Believe it or not, Conklin actually went nearly three months without allowing a sack during a long stretch this season — that’s incredible. Conklin is coming off his rookie deal after being selected 8th overall back in 2016, and should be in line for a big pay day.
Offensive tackle isn’t the position we might think Pace would spend big this offseason. In fact, it would surprise a lot of folks. But, again, the line needs fixing by any means necessary. If they can find a new home for Leno or Massie, the former All Pro is a massive upgrade.