The Chicago Bears made a long-awaited move recently to bolster their defense line.

Yannick Ngakoue was widely considered to be the best remaining edge rusher on the market. With such an obvious need at the position, it just made sense for Ngakoue to land in Chicago. 

According to Ngakoue, this move was "meant to be." 

Ngakoue pointed to one of his tattoos as proof this was the right decision.

"I actually have a bear tatted on my hand," explained Ngakoue. "I feel like that was a sign to me that I was always meant to be a Chicago Bear."

It's definitely exciting when a player is so eager to play for his new team. While the fit has always made sense on paper, Ngakoue's own words seemed to imply that Chicago wouldn't be a top choice. 

Ngakoue had previously stated that he wished to find a "stable home with a contender," ahead of the 2023 season. While the Bears are definitely improved, I wouldn't label the team a contender just yet. Additionally, Ngakoue only signed a one-year deal with the team. 

Nevertheless, it appears Ngakoue is happy, even if the deal isn't what he initially expected. 

The veteran will have plenty of opportunities to impress in 2023. The Bears' pass rush was atrocious in 2022, but adding Ngakoue immediately gives credibility to the unit. 

Bears bolster pass rush with the addition of Pro Bowl edge

On the night for the NFL's first preseason game of the year, the Chicago Bears made a bit of a splash when they signed former Pro Bowl edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue to a one year deal.  Ngakoue was one of the better free agents left on the market. He's managed to have eight straight seasons […]

Featured image via © Marc Lebryk | 2022 Sep 25