Bears GM is looking to upgrade one position by any means necessary
Chicago Bears GM Ryan Poles is looking to upgrade one important position group by any means necessary in the 2023 offseason.
The Chicago Bears’ struggles on offense all started up front on the offensive line. There was never much cohesion and chemistry from a group that, for the most part, lacked talent.
So it’s no surprise the Bears will spend this offseason, and likely a chunk of the salary cap, addressing some of the issues in the trenches.
General manager Ryan Poles was asked about his outlook on the position in his media availability on Tuesday at the NFL’s Scouting Combine.
“We’re always gonna look to add (talent),” Poles said of the offensive line. “That’s a place (where) your starting five, that’s not gonna be the group more than likely at the very end of the season. So you gotta be deep, you gotta be healthy, you gotta be versatile – guys that can play inside and outside.
"So we’re comfortable with some of the guys that are there. We didn’t get to see everybody in their proper position, but I think that’s a position we’ll always look to add and improve.”
Poles went on to say that he adding competition is something he plans to do in order to elevate everybody’s game. He also mentioned that he is open-minded when it comes to playing younger guys over some of the seasoned veterans if they are part of the team’s best five.
Rookie LT Braxton Jones was one of the team’s standout after being selected in the fifth round of last year’s draft. Jones should hold onto his starting spot, along with RG Teven Jenkins, but expect the Bears to pursue experienced players in free agency.
With nearly $100 million in active salary cap space, according to Spotrac, the Bears are likely to make a big splash for a premier talent in the free agency pool as well. Notre Dame produce and San Francisco 49ers RT Mike McGlinchey will be a name to watch over the next couple of weeks.
Overall Poles’ plan is exactly what Bears fans should want to hear. Getting complacent on the offensive line leads to major issues. And with QB Justin Fields entering his third season under center, protection is paramount in furthering his development as a passer.
Featured image via Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
