The Chicago Bears must complete free agency before focusing on the NFL draft. GM Ryan Poles is unlikely to engage on an extravagant spending frenzy. He’ll be more focused on retaining Jaylon Johnson before the market opens. That being said, it appears that the Bears will make at least one significant signing to help shore up a more troublesome part of the squad. Experts believe Poles will focus on one of two areas. Either he’ll look for another pass rusher to play opposite Montez Sweat, or he’ll look for a reliable wide receiver for his next quarterback.
Both are feasible, but they may not be the focus. Adam Caplan of the Pro Football Network hinted at this possibility in his most recent piece.
For more than a decade, the Bears have struggled at the centre position. Cody Whitehair was a decent player at times, but he was notoriously inconsistent. Lucas Patrick is a reliable backup. James Daniels was a flop. Nobody has managed to secure the position. According to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, Poles may turn to the veteran market to ultimately resolve their difficulties.
The Chicago Bears will have many alternatives.
Lloyd Cushenberry might be the best. Last season, the former third-round pick emerged as a key starter for the Denver Broncos, establishing himself as a standout pass protector. He is 26 years old and entering his prime. Andre James has also carved out a solid role with the Las Vegas Raiders. He possesses the necessary mobility and attitude that Bears typically desire. Connor Williams of the Miami Dolphins could be the greatest fit, but he is coming off a season-ending knee injury. Much of this will depend on what new offensive coordinator Shane Waldron wants.
He’s reportedly looking to implement a system with West Coast offence leanings. That would imply a method based on short-to-intermediate passing. This technique would necessitate the use of a dependable security centre. Cushenberry checks the box. The essence of the issue is if the Chicago Bears are willing to pay him more than $10 million per year. They will have adequate cap room, but Poles is known for being wary of overspending on senior free players. It’ll be an intriguing situation to observe.
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