Three free agents who could interest the Bears
The chaotic portion of free agency is officially in the books. At this point, we're entering the third wave, which is usually when older players or players with some risk to them finally sign. The Bears likely already did all the big spending they planned to do this offseason. However, a few players are still […]
The chaotic portion of free agency is officially in the books.
At this point, we're entering the third wave, which is usually when older players or players with some risk to them finally sign.
The Bears likely already did all the big spending they planned to do this offseason. However, a few players are still available that I believe would help the Bears in 2023.
OT Isaiah Wynn
Aaron Leming of 247Sports mentioned Isaiah Wynn in a list of free agents that the Bears could target.
Wynn would be a massive get for the Bears on the right side of the line.
The talented tackle entered unrestricted free agency for the first time this offseason, and should have options. The reason Wynn is still available is likely due to his injury history- he has never started every game in a season.
In 2022, Wynn started just seven games for the Patriots and received a very mediocre 54.6 grade from PFF.
However, 2020 and 2021 are the seasons in which Wynn played the most games, with 10 and 16 respectively. In these seasons, Wynn had fantastic grades: 82.6 and 74.9.
Clearly, when Wynn is on the field, he is a borderline pro bowler. A one-year deal with incentives would be well-worth the flier for the Bears.
Additionally, adding Wynn would allow the Bears to look elsewhere with the ninth pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
DE Yannick Ngakoue
Ngakoue is a supremely talented edge rusher, but he can't seem to find a permanent home.
Since the 2020 season, Ngakoue has played for the Ravens, Vikings, Raiders, and Colts. It seems that Ngakoue will soon join his fifth team in four seasons.
The Bears could be the perfect place. Chicago still has the most cap space in the league, so price wouldn't be a concern.
In 2022, his lone season with the Colts, Ngakoue collected 29 tackles, 9.5 sacks, and eight tackles for loss. For reference, Ngakoue had half as many sacks on his own as the entire Bears' defense had in 2022.
The Bears are extremely thin on the edge, so adding Ngakoue would provide the team with a valuable veteran.
C Ben Jones
Jones is a seasoned veteran who will be 34 by the time the 2023 season starts.
However, you wouldn't know it by watching his tape. Jones has had a PFF rating of 70 or better every season since 2013. In 2022, Jones was one of few bright spots on a Titans' offensive line that struggled mightily.
Interestingly, perhaps the only other bright spot on the Titans' 2022 line is already a Chicago Bear- Nate Davis. Jones and Davis already have chemistry and could be a great combo in the Windy City.
Currently, the Bears roster Lucas Patrick and Doug Kramer at the center position, neither of which inspire much confidence. Jones could be a great one-year fix at the position.
Final Thoughts: The Bears have plenty of money to spend if they decide to add more veteran talent.
The offensive line is still a big issue, as is the pass rush. I believe these are the areas that the Bears are likeliest to try and upgrade before the draft.
