Following several key additions in 2017 NFL free agency, here is what the Chicago Bears starting defense could look like, prior to the NFL Draft.
The Chicago Bears swung and missed with some potential starters in free agency, showing that the once-proud franchise doesn’t swing the same weight it once did. The Bears defense added a few players here and there, but much more is needed in the upcoming draft.
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With that being said, let’s took a look at where the Bears defense stands post-free agency, and what positions could continue to be addressed:
Defensive Line: Akiem Hicks, Eddie Goldman, and Mitch Unrein
Hicks is a star in the making and, entering a contract season, he should be ready to roll. Goldman was severely limited by injuries last year, and he needs to stay healthy in 2017. He has flashed Pro Bowl potential, but his weight and durability issues are holding him back. As for Unrein, he figures to get pushed by Jonathan Bullard (or maybe Alabama’s Jonathan Allen?). Unrein isn’t flashy, but he’s a veteran who does the much-needed dirty work. Ego Ferguson and Will Sutton also figure to get an extended look in training camp, but neither are guaranteed a spot on the 53-man roster.
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Outside Linebackers: Leonard Floyd and Pernell McPhee
The arrow is definitely pointing up for Floyd, but the same can’t be said for McPhee. McPhee is a wrecking ball when healthy, but his constant knee problems have limited his production. Floyd’s concussion history is a concern, but he figures to only improve upon his 2016 rookie campaign. At their best, this can be a dynamic duo. Add in Willie Young, Lamarr Houston, and another rookie, and this could be the strength of the whole team.
Inside Linebackers: Jerrell Freeman and Danny Trevathan
When Freeman wasn’t suspended, he was the Bears most consistent performer. The PED suspension is alarming, but there’s little doubt Freeman will lead the team in tackles once again. As for Trevathan, his season will most likely begin on the physically-unable-to-perform (PUP) list after suffering a torn patellar tendon. Nick Kwiatkoski figures to start any games that Trevathan is forced to miss.
Cornerbacks: Marcus Cooper and Prince Amukamara
Both Cooper and Amukamara were given nice paychecks this offseason and, as a result, should be starting in September. Amukamara is on a one-year deal (worth $7 million guaranteed) and has been a solid starter in his career. Cooper had his best season with the Arizona Cardinals in 2016 and was rewarded with a three-year deal.
Both free agent additions have the size that Vic Fangio covets. Tracy Porter, Bryce Callahan, and Kyle Fuller figure to compete for playing time, but it’s no guaranteed that all three incumbents crack the roster. Deiondre’ Hall and Cre’Von LeBlanc are also part of a quickly crowded positional group.
Next: Projecting Bears' Offensive Starters Post-Free Agency
Safeties: Quintin Demps and Adrian Amos
Demps, 31, is a playmaking safety that the Bears desperately need. His age makes him a stopgap, but nevertheless, he’s the best safety on the roster and will start from Day 1. Amos is in danger of losing his starting job (he was benched last season) and is probably best suited to play in sub packages. Deon Bush and Chris Prosinski will also push for playtime, but drafting a safety (once again) seems like a must.