Three Key Offseason Moves the Bears Need to Make
The Chicago Bears have made significant strides this offseason, securing high-impact talent through free agency and drafting potential franchise cornerstones in the 2024 NFL Draft. Despite these gains, there remain crucial areas that require bolstering.
Here are three essential post-draft strategies the Bears should consider:
**Strengthen the Defensive Line**
The Bears successfully filled several starting roles through free agency and the draft, notably in the secondary and on offense. Yet, they overlooked enhancing the defensive line depth. The departure of Justin Jones to the Arizona Cardinals has left a notable gap. The current roster�featuring Gervon Dexter, Andrew Billings, and Zacch Pickens�lacks depth. Billings, a six-year veteran, primarily serves as a run-stopper, evident from his performance last season where he failed to record a sack despite significant playtime. While Dexter showed promise in his rookie season, the Bears would benefit greatly from adding a defensive tackle who can consistently pressure the quarterback.
**Enhance Offensive Line Depth**
The Bears are well-equipped at the offensive tackle positions with Braxton Jones and Darnell Wright. However, the interior line poses uncertainties, particularly at guard and center. Injuries and personal issues sidelined starting guards Teven Jenkins and Nate Davis for several games last season, exposing a need for more reliable backups. Additionally, the competition for the center position between Ryan Bates and Coleman Shelton is unresolved. Increasing depth at guard and center is imperative to fortify the offensive line and ensure quarterback protection.
**Add a Defensive End**
The decision not to re-sign Yannick Ngakoue leaves a vacancy opposite Pro Bowler Montez Sweat. Current options, DeMarcus Walker and Dominique Robinson, had a modest output last season, combining for a mere four sacks. While rookie Austin Booker shows potential, relying solely on him and the existing squad could be risky. Signing an experienced defensive end would provide a much-needed boost to the pass rush and depth to the defensive front.
By addressing these areas, the Bears can solidify their roster and enhance their competitiveness for the upcoming season.
| POLL | ||
8 MAI | 89 ANSWERS Three Key Offseason Moves the Bears Need to Make Do you think the Bears should prioritize defensive improvements this offseason? | ||
| Yes | 76 | 85.4 % |
| No | 13 | 14.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
