Chicago Bears: 5 potential surprise veteran cuts to pursue
By Ryan Heckman
Potential surprise cuts the Chicago Bears could pursue: Joe Haden
One of the positions the Bears are a bit vulnerable at is cornerback. They have Jaylon Johnson and Desmond Trufant as the starters on the outside, but not a lot of depth behind them.
The Pittsburgh Steelers got a lot more out of Joe Haden than some originally thought they would when they acquired him back in 2017. Haden even made a Pro Bowl in 2019 after picking off five passes and totaling 17 passes defensed.
Still the Steelers could opt to cut Haden in order to save another $7 million and use it on areas they are in need. If Pittsburgh were to cut him, the Bears should definitely be interested.
If Johnson and Trufant are healthy, they should be a fine duo. However, Haden would be an upgrade over Trufant and, quite frankly, no one should be banking on Trufant staying healthy. He’s missed several games over the last two seasons, and again, the Bears don’t have anyone reliable behind him.
Haden is 32 years old but still playing at an above average level. Since coming to Pittsburgh, he’s come up with 10 interceptions and 48 passes defensed (in four seasons). Being able to slide him in as the starter next to Johnson, and keep Trufant either as a reserve or even try him in the slot, would be a huge benefit.