Chicago Bears: Aaron Lynch is an intriguing free agent signing

The Chicago Bears added an intriguing pass rushing option in free agent Aaron Lynch.

The Chicago Bears signed former San Francisco 49ers pass rusher Aaron Lynch to a one-year contract worth up-to $6 million. The team was desperate for pass rushers, and while Lynch doesn’t completely solve this issue, he’s an interesting player to take a flyer on. In a weak free agent market for pass rushers, Lynch was one of the better options still available. He comes with some red flags, but with just a one-year deal, his upside is greater than any potential risk.

Lynch was a fifth-round pick in the 2014 draft and played for defensive coordinator Vic Fangio during his rookie season. In that year, Lynch racked-up six sacks and showed tremendous potential. In 2015, Lynch continued to impress, accumulating 6.5 sacks in just 14 games. However, his play fell off a cliff in the past two seasons, playing in only 14 combined games and amassing just 2.5 sacks.

Injuries (and a suspension) were partly to blame, but so too was his work ethic. He showed up to training camp out of shape (he weighed nearly 30 pounds over his playing weight) and was in danger of not making the team.

The Bears are hoping that a reunion with Vic Fangio will help get the best out of Lynch. Fangio is a no-nonsense type of coach and should provide the discipline that Lynch needs. When at his best, Lynch is a 6-6, 270-pound pass rusher who has the speed to bend the edge and the power to drive offensive lineman back into the quarterback.

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The Bears pass rush is still very thin, and it would be shocking if the team didn’t address this need via the draft or with another free agent signing. Adding Lynch is a good upside move, and with just a one-year deal, it’s a win-win for both sides. If Lynch plays poorly, the Bears can easily move on; if Lynch reverts back to his 2014-15 form, he should be looking at a nice payday for his next contract. At just 25 years old, his best days are hopefully still in front of him.