Chicago Bears: Grading first wave free agency moves

Veteran Signings

TE Jimmy Graham

This was a head-scratcher for me, and I think most Bears fans would agree. The Bears had a gaping need at tight end, and also lead the league in tight ends under contract — funny enough.

Jimmy Graham is far past his prime, so to sign him to a 2-year deal worth $16 million is a bizarre decision. When a younger Eric Ebron goes to the Pittsburgh Steelers on a similar deal but for $4 million less, it really makes me question Pace.

The Bears still have a hole at tight end, and it’s a scary position to look at right now in Chicago.

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Grade: D

EDGE Robert Quinn

While the Bears didn’t necessarily need to spend $70 million on a 5-year deal with Robert Quinn, I like this move a lot. I understand they have other, more pressing needs. But, Quinn is a premier pass rusher in this league.

The fact that Chicago signed a guy who actually had a better 2019 campaign than Khalil Mack should scare opposing offenses. Now, these two get to line up together on a unit that is loaded with talent. The Bears should be a top-3 defense in the NFL in 2020 after a move like this.

Grade: B+

CB Artie Burns

This was nothing more than a depth signing. The Bears already have Kevin Toliver and Tre Roberson who will compete for the spot opposite Kyle Fuller. I think Roberson ends up winning the job, for what it’s worth.

Artie Burns has been very, very bad since entering the NFL. In the last two seasons, he has allowed completions on 77 percent of his targets while giving up five touchdowns and coming up with zero interceptions.

Grade: D