Chicago Bears: Evan Engram and 3 Jaguars free agents to pursue

The offseason is about to get blown into full-force here in a few weeks. For now, we’re down to just a handful of teams still in it, but the Chicago Bears have been in offseason mode for a while now.

The Jacksonville Jaguars were eliminated this past weekend after making it further than most gave them any chance to make it, and the future looks bright for Doug Pederson’s crew.

The Bears are trying to make a similar jump with another 2021 quarterback who knows a thing or two about Trevor Lawrence.

Justin Fields has known Lawrence for years, and he is likely chomping at the bit to see the Bears make a jump like the Jaguars did last year. If Chicago wants to try and coax talent away from Jacksonville this offseason, they could do so by looking at three particular free agents, starting with a guy that could help protect Fields.

Jaguars free agents the Chicago Bears could pursue: OT Jawaan Taylor

The Bears’ top priority this offseason is getting guys who can protect Justin Fields up front. Of course, they need to add weapons. But, first order of business is protecting Fields. That’s it.

A second-round pick in 2019, Jawaan Taylor has started every game for the Jaguars since entering the league. The 27-year-old should be wanted back in Jacksonville strictly because of his pass-blocking prowess. That’s by far and away his top trait.

Taylor does struggle in the run game, and that’s something the Bears would hope they could help improve with the right coaching. But, as a pass-blocker, Taylor is excellent. If this offseason is all about keeping Fields upright, Taylor would be a fine signing and could start at the other tackle position opposite Braxton Jones going forward.