The Chicago Bears' subar defensive line has been a talking point way too many times this season. The secondary's ability to create turnovers and the winning streak were enough to distract the fans at times, but the underlying issues were always there.
Unfortunately, they showed up at the worst possible time. The loss to the Green Bay Packers was a prime example of why the Bears desperately need to bolster their defensive line in the offseason, as they couldn't even hold their ground against backups.
Bears Must Bolster Defensive Line During 2026 Offseason
The Packers started rookie Anthony Belton at right guard, backup center Sean Rhyan, the struggling Aaron Banks at right guard, and Zach Tom and Rasheed Walker at right and left tackle, respectively. They entered the season ranked as the 14th-best offensive line in the league, per Pro Football Focus, and that was before the string of injuries.
Matt LaFleur's team has struggled to run the football all season long, averaging 117.2 rushing yards per game (19th in the league). They reached their season average against the Bears, consistently gaining tough yards after contact and keeping the chains in motion for crucial first-down conversions.
Josh Jacobs averaged 4.3 yards per carry, roughly ahead of his season average of 3.9 yards per attempt. The Bears failed to shut down the interior of the defense, with LaFleur constantly getting away with the same inside-zone runs. And while a lot of that may also fall on defensive coordinator Dennis Allen and his inability to make in-game adjustments, he can only do so much with the hand he's been given.
Grady Jarrett hasn't given this team much in the games he's been healthy enough to play. His Pro Football Focus grade of 52.8 ranks 94th among 129 eligible defensive tackles, and the Bears' defensive line ranked 29th as a whole entering Week 14.
Perhaps coach Ben Johnson will be able to work his magic to get reunited with Detroit Lions star DJ Reader, who's going to be a free agent, or they might want to aim a little higher and go after Denver Broncos star John Franklin-Myers.
The Bears could also look to make the most of veterans like Cam Jordan or Calais Campbell in what might be the final year of their careers. Whatever the case, one thing's for sure: GM Ryan Poles will have to spend big bucks to get this team stronger in the trenches.