The Chicago Bears wrapped up their preseason on Thursday, giving them additional time to finalize decisions for the 53-man roster. With some holes that need to be addressed on the roster, the Bears may look elsewhere for potential cut targets. Whether it’s experienced veterans or young players seeking a fresh start, plenty of talent will be available on the open market. Here are a few intriguing candidates the Bears could consider adding to the roster.
Bears Could Land Several Intriguing Cut Targets
D’Wayne Eskridge, Return Specialist
The Bears desperately need a return specialist. With poor performances from several players during the preseason, it’s crucial to add a reliable return man. Bleacher Report’s Jordan Schultz reported that the Seattle Seahawks cut ties with former second-round pick D’Wayne Eskridge. Eskridge can give the Bears an added edge on offense as a gadget guy and as a return man on special teams. The speedy receiver is already familiar with Bears’ Offensive Coordinator Shane Waldron and could play a crucial role in Chicago. Eskridge should be the top player on General Manager Ryan Poles’ list of cut targets.
Ricky Stromberg, Center
NFL insider Jeremy Fowler reported that the Washington Commanders are expected to waive 2023 third-round pick Ricky Stromberg. For many Bears fans who had hoped for Stromberg in last year’s draft, he could be an under-the-radar addition to address the team’s recent struggles at center. As a young player with potential, Stromberg could develop into a long-term solution at center. Newly acquired interior lineman Ryan Bates will be the presumed backup at center but is better as a guard. If the Bears can bring in Stromberg to backup Coleman Shelton, Bates can play at his natural position. A win-win situation for both Stromberg and the Bears.
Siaki Ika, Defensive Tackle
The Cleveland Browns have officially cut their former third-round selection, defensive tackle Siaki Ika. A recent draft pick, Ika is only 23 years old and could fill a massive need at DT for the Bears. The Bears have two solid starters at DT in Gervon Dexter Sr. and Andrew Billings, but they have a huge problem with depth. Outside of former third-round pick Zacch Pickens, they need another reliable piece to potentially fill in when needed. Ika was buried in the depth chart in Cleveland and couldn’t start his career on the right foot. Once projected to be a first-round pick, Ika is athletic for his size and can use his explosiveness to disrupt plays. With the right coaching in Chicago, he can become a solid contributor on defense.
Jamal Agnew, Return Specialist
Jacksonville Jaguars return specialist Jamal Agnew could be a smart signing for Chicago. A former Pro Bowler and 2017 First-Team All-Pro, Agnew has averaged 10.3 yards per punt return and 25.5 yards per kick return throughout his career. He played in 11 games for the Jaguars last season before a broken leg sidelined him. The Bears can’t afford to have any roles on the roster, especially at a vital position like return specialist. With NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reporting that about ten teams are interested in Agnew, the Bears must act quickly.
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