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Exciting Bears Offseason Target Rumor Emerges Following Coaching Changes

The Chicago Bears must improve their offensive line this offseason. Fortunately, one NFL analyst is linking Ben Johnson's team to the perfect solution.

By Devon Platana

Chicago Bears new head coach Ben Johnson (right) with general manager Ryan Poles pose for photos after a press conference introducing him at PNC Center.
Chicago Bears new head coach Ben Johnson (right) with general manager Ryan Poles pose for photos after a press conference introducing him at PNC Center. / David Banks-Imagn Images
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Ben Johnson has hit the ground running since being named the Chicago Bears' new head coach last week.

The 38-year-old offensive guru is already fleshing out his coaching staff, hiring offensive coordinator Declan Doyle and defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. Johnson is also reportedly targeting Notre Dame offensive line coach Joe Rudolph, indicating that improving quarterback Caleb Williams' protection is one of the Bears' top offseason priorities.

Assuming that bolstering the offensive line is one of the top offseason priorities, one NFL analyst has the perfect solution for the Bears' needs.

Bears Projected to Target Free Agent OG Trey Smith

In ESPN's latest free agency rankings, NFL insider Jeremy Fowler revealed that he wouldn't be surprised if the Bears targeted Kansas City Chiefs offensive guard Trey Smith.

"Some inside the league are watching Chicago here," Fowler wrote. "General manager Ryan Poles, who needs to drastically improve his interior offensive line for new coach Johnson, was in Kansas City when the Chiefs drafted Smith."

With starting OGs Teven Jenkins and Matt Pryor scheduled to hit free agency in March, it makes a lot of sense that the Bears would target Smith, who's the No. 2 free agent on ESPN's list.

Smith, 25, is a mountain of a man, standing at 6-foot-6 while weighing 321 lbs. Expectations were low when the Chiefs drafted the former Tennessee blocker with the 226th overall pick in 2021, only for him to improve with each passing year, culminating with his first Pro Bowl nod this season.

The veteran guard is more than deserving of every honor he receives this season. He was one of Pro Football Focus' top-rated OGs in terms of run blocking (77.4, 10th) and overall offense (75.3, 14th). As a result, Spotrac projects that he could earn about $19.7 million annually on his next deal.

That isn't an issue for the Bears, who will have approximately $67.3 million to spend in free agency.

Additionally, general manager Ryan Poles' relationship could play a factor in Smith potentially moving to the Windy City. Poles as the executive director of player personnel for the Chiefs during the Humboldt, TN native's rookie season.

The Bears can take their first real swing at signing Smith when the NFL free agency tampering period begins on Monday, March 10.

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