Chicago Bears: 2018 NFL free agency preview, predictions
Roster needs
The Bears have a number of needs to fill this offseason. On offense, we all know what priority No. 1 is — wide receiver. The Bears’ passing attack ranked last in passing attempts and yards, and ranked 31st in passing touchdowns. Yes, coaching had a hand in it, but the wide receivers corps just wasn’t good enough.
The Bears need to acquire at least two receivers through free agency. There are a number of good receivers available. With another receiver picked up in the draft and a returning player, the receiving corps should perform many times better than the last few seasons.
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Another need is at offensive line. As I mentioned, the Bears waived Sitton. That presents a need at guard. Jordan Morgan redshirted his rookie season so the Bears may feel he’s ready to get into the rotation. They may get a guard in free agency and may draft one as well. The line needs to be more athletic and younger. Depth is also an issue.
Additionally, something needs to be done at tight end. With the loss of Zach Miller (his career is probably over), there is a big need there. Trubisky needs the big target, especially in the red zone. Adam Shaheen will turn out to be a good option, but someone else is also needed.
On defense, the Bears need to improve their pass rush. The need is not only at defensive line but also at outside linebacker. With better pass rushers at those positions, Leonard Floyd can better develop his skills. Also, Akiem Hicks could be freed up to continue his stellar play. He had a career year last season, but he faded down the stretch facing so many double teams over the course of the year.
In the secondary, some big decisions need to be made. Kyle Fuller could leave for free agency, or the Bears could simply put the franchise tag on him and wait another year before making a decision. Also, Prince Amukamara is also a free agent. The Bears could re-sign him, seeing as he had a pretty good first season in Chicago.
At safety, the Bears are pretty set for the first time in many years. They could perhaps sign someone for added depth, but their search for a starter is over for the foreseeable future.