Chicago Bears: 5 Big-name free agents team could still sign

Cameron Fleming, OT, New England Patriots

We all know the Bears need to make an upgrade at right tackle. However, up to this point, that upgrade hasn’t been made. I’m guessing Chicago whiffed on their early targets, and are now scrambling to implement a backup plan.

Whichever plan they’re on, they need to turn their attention to Cameron Fleming. He may not be a huge step forward when compared to Bobby Massie, but he’s got more talent, youth and upside. He’s coming off a season during which he helped the New England Patriots make their way to the Super Bowl, starting six regular-season games as well as the Big Game.

Yes, Fleming isn’t a full-time starter. He’s spent much of his time in Boston battling with other exceptional offensive tackles for snaps. If given the opportunity in Chicago, though, I believe he could surprise as a quality starter who can help the Bears take better care of Mitchell Trubisky.

What’s better is I don’t anticipate Fleming costing an arm and a leg to get under contract. I know the Bears have plenty of cap space to work with right now, but that doesn’t mean a value addition like the Stanford alum wouldn’t be welcomed. At the worst, he gives Massie a run for his money during training camp.

Competition spurs success.