3 Offseason Needs the Bears Can't Ignore in 2024

Going into 2023, the Bears' roster was filled with holes. Ryan Poles was able to add talent across the board via both free agency and the draft. D.J. Moore, T.J. Edwards, Tremaine Edmunds, Darnell Wright, and Tyrique Stevenson are all players that were added and provided huge upgrades to the roster.

The Bears went from the worst record in the NFL at 3-14 in 2022 to a solid 7-10 this past season. While that that is definitely steps in the right direction, the fact is the team still has much to address before they can climb into being true contenders.

There are many needs going into 2024, but here we will look at arguably the three most crucial.

1. Adding a Pass Rusher to Complement Montez Sweat

Sweat was added to the team at the trade deadline halfway through the season and was still able to lead the Bears in sacks when it was all said and done with six. It was evident the defense played at an entirely different level after the acquisition of Sweat, but they still need someone on the opposite end to create pressure on the quarterback.

Justin Jones was next on the team in sacks with 4.5 and Yannick Ngakoue after him with 4. Jones plays inside and Ngakoue will likely not be returning next season after only signing a one-year deal last offseason.

Getting to the quarterback will be absolutely pivotal playing in a division with the likes of Jared Goff, Kirk Cousins and Jordan Love. When Sweat is getting all the attention he demands, someone will have to be able to win on the other end. DeMarcus Walker is a fine player, but he isn't the primary talk of offensive meetings from opponents.