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

Ezekiel Ansah, Detroit Lions, Age: 28

Ezekiel Ansah played defensive end in the Detroit Lions’ 4-3 defensive scheme. However, he has the tools to play the 3-4 outside linebacker. He has crazy athletic ability, is quick off the snap, and has moves to get into the backfield.

In 2017, Ansah dealt with injuries nearly the entire season. He still ended up playing in 14 games and recorded 12 sacks. His film is very impressive, seeing how he hobbled at times and still had a dominating season. The Lions didn’t make the playoffs, and their last two games didn’t mean much. Ansah played great, however. He recorded back-to-back three-sack games.

New Lions head coach Matt Patricia has a decision to make. The Lions could slap the franchise tag on Ansah. However, they haven’t used the tag since they did it to Cliff Avril in 2012.

Pairing Ansah with Floyd gives the Bears an incredibly athletic pass rush. Opposing offenses won’t be able to double-team either side. That results in more pressure put on the quarterback, more sacks, and more turnovers. Then we see the Monsters of the Midway return.