The Chicago Bears are in the middle of an important offseason that will define general manager Ryan Poles’ tenure.
Before the 2024 NFL draft kicks into full gear, free agency is on the horizon, where Poles will look to add some veterans to shore up key positions of need to help mold this team into a playoff contender.
Bears insider Brad Biggs singled out three positions that he expects to be on Chicago’s radar during free agency next month: center, defensive end and tight end.
It’s not a great draft class for edge rushers, and the Bears might explore some options on the open market. There are some talented centers in the draft, but the Bears currently don’t own a second-round pick, which might be the sweet spot to get a good one. Maybe Poles could get a second-rounder back if he trades quarterback Justin Fields. Some I’ve spoken to believe the return for Fields might be a third-rounder. Who knows right now?
The Bears have no depth behind Cole Kmet at tight end right now, so they’ll look at options there. I’d also look at safeties if they decide to move on from Jackson. Some really talented wide receivers will be available in free agency, but why not draft one in a strong year at that position?
After acquiring Montez Sweat in a trade with the Washington Commanders last season, Chicago is still seeking a reliable option opposite him. As Biggs noted, this isn’t a strong draft class for edge rushers — unless the Bears use their No. 9 pick — but there are some viable options in free agency, including Brian Burns, Josh Allen, Bryce Huff, Danielle Hunter and Chase Young.
Chicago’s offensive line made strides last season, where young tackles Darnell Wright and Braxton Jones rose to the challenge. Guard Teven Jenkins was the team’s highest-graded offensive lineman, but center remains the weak link. Lucas Patrick, Cody Whitehair and Dan Feeney didn’t cut it, but there should be some veteran options in free agency, including Connor Williams, Nick Allegretti and Andre James.
There’s no doubt Chicago has found its tight end in Cole Kmet, but there are depth concerns behind him. Robert Tonyan didn’t have an impact last season, although Marcedes Lewis thrived as a blocker. There are some intriguing veteran options in free agency, including Noah Fant, Dalton Schultz, Colby Parkinson and Mike Gesicki.