The Chicago Bears have a number of needs this summer, one of which is to get a quality safety. Fortunately, they have a perfect choice in free agency: Indianapolis Colts safety Julian Blackmon.
After the 2023 season, Blackmon will be an unrestricted free agent, and the Bears have plenty of reasons to pursue him. In fact, Bleacher Report listed him as an ideal free agent signing for the Chicago Bears.
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With Eddie Jackson underperforming in Chicago, having only 27 combined tackles and one interception, the Bears could plan to replace him by bringing in Blackmon.
Blackmon has 88 combined tackles for the Colts, five tackles for loss, one QB hit, and four interceptions. Not to add, he’s only 26 years old, whereas Jackson is nearly 30.
The Bears are in the lowest half of the league in terms of defense, so they could use some help there. Blackmon may be a significant addition for them.
“While Blackmon has played stronger than free safety this year, he can still line up at both positions.” Also, he’s having a terrific year in coverage, with a high grade from Pro Football Focus and a 53.3 passer rating when targeted heading into this weekend, according to the Bleacher Report report.
“Plus, the Utah product will only be 26 years old next season and was a college teammate with impending free agent Jaylon Johnson, so signing Blackmon could entice the latter to stay in town.”
It remains to be seen whether the Chicago Bears will pursue Julian Blackmon. They do have other important issues to address, and they may want to prioritize addressing their quarterback position because they are set to choose first in the 2024 NFL Draft.
They are also shorthanded at wide receiver and other offensive spots, so fixing the defense may not be a primary concern.
The Chicago Bears may be concerned about Julian Blackmon’s injury.
The recent injury to Julian Blackmon may deter the Chicago Bears from pursuing him. Due to a shoulder injury, the Indianapolis Colts have placed the safety on Injured Reserve, officially terminating his season with the team.
The extent of Blackmon’s injury, which occurred in Week 16 against the Atlanta Falcons, is unknown, but it had to be serious given that he was placed on injured reserve.
Depending on Blackmon’s health during free agency, the Bears’ interest in him could change.
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