The Chicago Bears made multiple key additions to their defensive line throughout the offseason, with one of the biggest moves being the signing of veteran defensive tackle Grady Jarrett to a three-year deal worth $42.7 million. Jarrett's joining the Bears quickly excited Bears fans, not only due to his previous success but also because of his attitude, and his arrival was viewed as a difference-making move that could help stabilize the defense.
That said, the 32-year-old hasn't started the season off very well. This has caught the attention of fans, and they are now questioning general manager Ryan Poles' decision to sign the veteran. If Jarrett doesn't turn it around fast on the field, this move could add to Poles' long list of mistakes.
Bears' Grady Jarrett Signing Not Aging Well to Start the Season
There's very little to like about the early returns here. Jarrett has only recorded three tackles, three quarterback hits, and three quarterback pressures. Furthermore, he has earned a pass rush grade of 56.8, a run defense grade of 57.6, and a career-worst overall grade of 55.7, according to Pro Football Focus.
Those struggles have shown up in the Bears’ overall defense as well, as they've already allowed 418 rushing yards and an average of 5.5 yards per carry. If Jarrett was truly making a difference in run defense, there wouldn't be as many running lanes open up the middle. One would also expect him to be more productive in the tackle column.
In addition to the lack of run-stopping help, Bears fans expected more of a pass-rush presence from the veteran. Unfortunately, that has also yet to show up, leaving Chicago yet again with a weak interior rush as well as a weak pass rush.
The one thing Jarrett has brought to the team is another vocal leader on defense. With star cornerback Jaylon Johnson likely being out the whole season with a groin injury, it was sorely needed. Following their Week 2 disaster on defense, he and Jaquan Brisker held a players-only meeting to correct the unit, but his leadership can only take Jarrett so far if he continues to disappoint on the gridiron.
Be that as it may, Bears fans need to see Jarrett produce on the field. If he's unable to improve his play in the next few games, the fan base will continue to turn against him, potentially demanding that the partnership end before it's truly begun.