Chicago Bears: 5 Outside linebacker targets in 2018 NFL Free Agency

Barkevious Mingo, Indianapolis Colts, Age: 27

Barkevious Mingo was the Cleveland Browns’ 2013 first-round pick (sixth overall). He didn’t perform like a first rounder and the Browns traded him to the New England Patriots. While he wasn’t the Patriots’ top performer, he helped them win Super Bowl LI against the Atlanta Falcons. In 2017, Mingo played for the Indianapolis Colts. He recorded a career-high 44 tackles. He also forced three fumbles and recovered three fumbles.

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Mingo has just nine sacks in his career, but he is a very good run defender and coverage guy. He has the tools to be a good player (strength, agility, quickness) but hasn’t put it together yet. As a result, he hasn’t gotten the playing time needed to show those skills. Mingo is part of Louisiana State’s DBU. LSU has a history of developing NFL-caliber defensive backs. His skills haven’t translated to the NFL…yet.

With his abilities, Mingo is a perfect candidate to learn under Bears defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. Fangio is a defensive guru and he’s made stars on his defenses both in San Francisco with the 49ers and in Chicago with the Bears. If anyone could bring out the best in Mingo, it’s Fangio.

While the Bears could have deep pockets in free agency, there are quite a number of holes to fill. They could sign Mingo to a low-risk contract. The reward could be very high.

In Indianapolis, Mingo started as a depth linebacker. He played well when he played, flashing the tools he had in college. Then John Simon went down and Mingo stepped in as a starter. He showed that he could handle the starting spot and did well. After recording eight tackles and no sacks in the first seven games, he recorded 36 tackles and two sacks since.

Mingo looks to be a low-risk, high-reward signing for the Bears. With Fangio’s help, he may be a steal for Chicago.