The Chicago Bears had multiple opportunities to address most of their roster concerns this offseason. Instead, they doubled down and added more firepower to spots where they already had more than enough talent.
That approach might come back to haunt them late in the season, but they still have time to solve it. That's especially the case with their slot corner position, which continues to be a huge question mark ahead of training camp.
The Bears placed Kyler Gordon on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list to begin training camp. Given his recent injury history, they should consider signing Kenny Moore II to replace him.
Kenny Moore II would be a perfect addition for the Chicago Bears
The Indianapolis Colts released Moore after failing to find a trade partner, but that had nothing to do with his skill or production. He just wasn't a good fit for defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo's complex and hybrid scheme.
Moore is the best option still available for teams with concerns at the nickelback position. He's a proven contributor, a former Pro Bowler, and a guy who thrives in zone coverage. He's also an exceptional run-stopper.
Spotrac projects his market value at just $5.3 million per year. The Bears have only $8.1 million in available cap space, per Over The Cap. However, there are always ways to get around that number and make things work if they're interested.
The Bears clearly had high hopes for Gordon when they gave him a three-year, $40 million contract extension in 2025. Unfortunately, the football gods may have had different plans, as he hasn't been able to stay on the field since.
He battled calf, groin, and hamstring injuries last season. He was limited to three regular-season appearances, and the fact that he's already sidelined with another soft-tissue injury is far from an encouraging sign.
Even when he was on the field, Gordon was far from the same shutdown defensive back he was before getting that extension. Pro Football Focus (subscription required) gave him a 59.2 overall grade, though he didn't even play enough snaps to qualify for a ranking.
The Bears' defensive backfield looks quite different ahead of this season, and Coby Bryant's addition might help them with some snaps in the slot here and there. That said, they can't afford to roll into next season without some insurance.
Moore might not be the flashiest guy out there, but even in a down year, he managed to log 55 total tackles, 1.5 sacks, three tackles for loss, three quarterback hits, two forced fumbles, five passes defensed, and one pick-six in 14 games (seven starts).
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