Recently Retired Ex-Lions DE Considered to Support Bears pass rush
Could Romeo Okwara Return to Boost Bears' Defense?
Former Detroit Lions defensive end Romeo Okwara announced his retirement from football in March, but at just 28 years old, a return to the game remains a viable option.
Okwara's NFL journey spanned eight years, including stints with the New York Giants from 2016 to 2017 and a significant tenure with the Lions from 2018 through the 2023 season. Despite his recent decision to step away, Matt Holder of Bleacher Report suggested Okwara as a potential addition to the Chicago Bears' defensive lineup, emphasizing the need for additional pass rush support alongside standout Montez Sweat.
"While Montez Sweat is a standout edge rusher, the Bears could benefit from bolstering their defensive rotation," Holder noted. "With younger prospects like Austin Booker and run-stopper DeMarcus Walker, adding a seasoned veteran like Carl Lawson, Romeo Okwara, or Markus Golden could significantly enhance their third-down defense."
Carl Lawson, set to turn 29 in June, emerges as a strong candidate for Chicago, yet Okwara's potential return adds an intriguing dynamic to the discussion.
"Could DE Romeo Okwara Make a Comeback with the Chicago Bears?"
In an Instagram post on March 19, Okwara reflected on his decision to step away: "After deep introspection and meditation, I have chosen to retire from the NFL. The bonds, experiences, and camaraderie with teammates and coaches are treasures I will always cherish."
While retirement in the NFL often proves reversible, as demonstrated by players like Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski, Okwara, like former Bears DE Aaron Lynch, who briefly retired in 2020, could contemplate a return to the field, especially at his age.
At the same time, Okwara has expressed interest in pursuing photography, a passion he intends to develop further. During his tenure with the Lions, he accumulated an impressive stat line: 134 tackles (24 for loss), 51 quarterback hits, 24.0 sacks, and six forced fumbles across 70 games (28 starts).
As the Bears seek to address gaps in their defensive end lineup, with Yannick Ngakoue's status uncertain, options like Lawson remain under consideration. Ngakoue, who started 13 games last season and contributed significantly before an injury ended his year, could potentially return to Chicago, pending contract negotiations.
Looking ahead, the Bears' quest for defensive reinforcements continues, with Okwara's potential return adding another layer of intrigue to their offseason plans.
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| POLL | ||
26 MAI | 50 ANSWERS Recently Retired Ex-Lions DE Considered to Support Bears pass rush Do you think Romeo Okwara would be a valuable addition to the Chicago Bears' defense if he returns? | ||
| Yes | 26 | 52 % |
| No | 24 | 48 % |
| List of polls | ||
