The Chicago Bears have been searching for a pass rusher to pair with Montez Sweat for some time. HBO’s Hard Knocks recently disclosed that the Bears made a strong attempt to trade for New England Patriots star pass rusher Matthew Judon. However, Judon opted to join the Atlanta Falcons, which may ultimately work in the Bears’ favor. General Manager Ryan Poles remains committed to exploring the market for potential additions. According to Chicago Tribune writer Brad Biggs, he believes the Bears are looking to upgrade at defensive tackle.
Chicago Bears Exploring Upgrade at Defensive Tackle
Brad Biggs Take on Why the Bears Might Be Interested in Upgrading the DT Room
Biggs was asked: “What is one position to keep an eye on for an addition around roster cuts? Edge Rusher? Offensive lineman? Punt returner?” Here’s what he had to say.
“None of those is outside the realm of possibility, but I’ll go with another position. I imagine the Bears will be keeping a close eye on defensive tackles hitting the waiver wire or veterans who are cut and immediately become free agents. The Bears always could flip a late-round pick for a player if it’s someone they project as a rotational backup.
Right now, they don’t have a lot of options, at least experienced ones, after Zacch Pickens. While everyone has focused on the idea of the Bears adding an edge rusher, I imagine they’re doing work looking at potential castoffs at tackle who could help them. Andrew Billings and Gervon Dexter are set as the starters. Pickens got 264 snaps last season — 25% of the playing time — and after him, it’s pretty wide open.”
The Bears may be in a more challenging situation at defensive tackle than defensive end. While there’s been plenty of talk about the need to upgrade at DE, DT has often been overlooked. DeMarcus Walker, Austin Booker, and potentially Daniel Hardy (granting he makes the team) are all viable options to pair with Sweat. This is the perfect year to have some of these young pass rushers take valuable reps in actual games to learn and improve.
On the other hand, the defensive tackle spot has more question marks. Andrew Billings is primarily a run defender, and while Gervon Dexter Sr. has upside, he lacks starting experience in the NFL. Depth is a concern, too, with Zacch Pickens barely getting playing time and no clear standouts behind him. The Bears could benefit from a surprise roster cut by another team to strengthen their defensive tackle group.
Potential Options for the Bears
It’s tough to predict who might be cut, but there are a few names to keep an eye on. Pro Football Network listed Detroit Lions DT Levi Onwuzurike as a potential cut candidate. He’s had injury issues, but he has shown flashes when healthy. Another guy the Bears can potentially acquire is Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman DeMarvin Leal. Leal is reported to be a cut candidate who could be a solid backup for the Bears. He’s slightly undersized but had a good camp and is in the “best shape since being drafted.”
Even if these two aren’t cut, there will likely be quality defensive tackles available on the market or through trade if the price is right.
Main Image: Daniel Bartel – USA Today Sports
