Chicago Bears: 5 Inside linebackers to target in 2020 NFL free agency

Deone Bucannon (Age: 27)

Deone Buchannon was the Arizona Cardinals’ first-round pick (27th overall) in the 2014 draft. He became a fixture on the Cardinals defense. In five seasons with the Cardinals (70 games, 56 starts) he recorded 406 tackles (27 for loss), 14 quarterback hits, 12 passes defended, two interceptions, seven forced fumbles and five fumble recoveries.

Buchannon provided a great deal of flexibility on the field. He not only played linebacker but also strong safety. The coaches moved him around and he had a knack of making big plays.

Buchannon’s fifth season wasn’t a very good one and the Cardinals let him leave via free agency. He signed a one-year deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers but they cut him after he only played five games. The New York Giants then picked him up and he played the rest of the 2019 season with them.

Buchannon could return to form and be a valuable asset in a rotation. Playing on this Chicago Bears defense could resurrect his career. Granted, he might not return to being a starter but he could be a dependable backup, and with his ability to play multiple positions he could still see a lot of snaps. He’d be an asset making big plays and big hits again.

Even as a backup Buchannon could be a fan favorite with his high energy play and those hard hits.