3 Former Pro Bowlers the Bears Can Still Sign in Free Agency
By Cem Yolbulan
Calais Campbell, DE
The Chicago Bears understandably have been more focused on the offensive side of the ball in free agency so far. Bringing in D'Andre Swift, and Gerald Everett, and trading for Keenan Allen, general manager Ryan Poles is trying to make sure that his rookie QB has enough offensive weapons next season.
The needs on the defensive side, however, have largely been ignored so far. The defensive end and defensive tackle depth is still less than ideal. Justin Jones departed for Arizona and there hasn't been a replacement yet. DeMarcus Walker and Montez Sweat are still alone as the only capable edge rushers on the team. More experience and versatility on the defensive line could do wonders for the Bears.
Enter, Calais Campbell.
The 37-year-old defender is still a reliable option on the defensive line and miraculously played all 17 games and over 60% of snaps last year with the Atlanta Falcons. He is not the same type of wrecking ball he was between 2014 and 2020 when he made six Pro Bowls in seven years, but he is still a more than capable option. He finished 2023 with 56 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and 17 QB hits.
His versatility and ability to be deployed on the interior or the edge makes him an intriguing fit for the young Chicago defense. His locker room presence on top of being one of the strongest defensive forces available on the market makes him an excellent addition to any team on a veteran minimum deal.