One of the biggest offseason needs for the Chicago Bears is on the offensive line. The Bears’ offensive line was one of the worst in the NFL this past season. They were ranked dead last in QB sacked per game with four, as rookie signal caller Caleb Williams was dropped 68 times.
Williams being sacked 68 times was tied with David Carr for third-most in NFL history, which isn’t a list you want to be a part of. For the Bears to take that next step, they must protect their future franchise QB.
The good news for Chicago fans is that the perfect solution to the Bears’ offensive line issues is available in free agency. ESPN’s Matt Bowen wrote this past week that he believes the best fit for Kansas City Chiefs right guard Trey Smith is with Chicago’s offense.
"The top interior lineman on the market, Smith would upgrade a critical position of need in Chicago. Smith is a powerful mover in the run game, as his run block win rate of 75.1% ranked sixth among guards. Plus, he has the foot speed to mirror interior defenders and the strength at 6-6 and 321 pounds to anchor against bull rushes. Bears general manager Ryan Poles could make a splash move to rebuild the front for Ben Johnson's new offense. The Bears allowed a league-high 68 sacks in 2024, so this area has to be addressed."
According to PFF, Smith had an outstanding run-blocking grade (80.8) this past season, further confirming his dominance on the ground. He also had a 70.6 pass-blocking grade but did not allow a sack, which will make Bears fans happy.
Heading into the offseason, the Bears need a starting-caliber right guard. The team cut Nate Davis during the regular season and replaced him with veteran Matt Pryor. Last season, the Bears were ranked 25th in rushing yards per game (102.0). However, those numbers should improve under first-year head coach Ben Johnson next season.
Johnson saw up close with the Detroit Lions how important the trenches are on both sides of the ball. Therefore, if you can win up front, which means protecting the quarterback, your offense should find success.
With free agency only weeks away, we’ll see if Johnson and GM Ryan Poles prioritize the o-line after the team added the necessary weapons around Williams last year.