Chicago Bears: 5 dream targets in 2023 NFL free agency
By Ryan Heckman
Dream targets for the Chicago Bears in free agency: Dalton Risner, G
One of the biggest needs this offseason, for the Bears, is up front across the offensive line. Chicago might only have one returning starter from last year when it’s all said and done, and that’s tackle Braxton Jones. Teven Jenkins could end up starting at guard, but that’s far from a guarantee.
If Cody Whitehair ends up back in Chicago and not cut, he’ll start on the inside. However, the Bears could easily upgrade either spot by signing Broncos free agent guard Dalton Risner. The 27-year-old is a former second-round pick that’s now testing free agency for the first time since being drafted back in 2019.
A huge area for improvement across this line is undoubtedly in pass protection, which is Risner’s strength. Last year, he was given a strong grade of 72.6 in that area per Pro Football Focus. Justin Fields needs to be better protected, regardless of what anyone thought they saw last year. His line did not give him enough to keep him upright.
Risner is one of the top available guards on the free agent market, and would be well-worth spending big on.