Ryan: DT Akiem Hicks
Limited to just five games last year, the Bears missed Hicks’ presence along the defensive line more than they could have imagined. The 30-year-old has blossomed into an elite defensive tackle since signing with the Bears before the 2016 season, tallying 24.0 sacks, 39 tackles for loss, and 58 quarterback hits in 3+ seasons.
One member of the Chicago Bears who benefits the most from Hicks returning is Khalil Mack, who couldn’t force as much pressure after his teammate’s injury. Think about this. Mack collected 4.5 sacks within the first five weeks of the 2019 season, but then had just four sacks over the next 11 weeks.
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