The Chicago Bears’ biggest weakness entering this season comes along the offensive lines, and these three guys can help them out.
If the Chicago Bears want Justin Fields to be the future of their franchise, they’ll need to protect him. Ryan Pace has already dipped his toe in the offensive line free agent market this offseason, signing LT Jason Peters.
With elite pass rushers like Aaron Donald, Myles Garrett and TJ Watt on their schedule this season, the Bears need to make a few quick fixes to save whoever their QB may be from an early onslaught.
3 offensive linemen the Bears should sign right now
Rick Wagner
After getting released from Green Bay Packers in February, Wagner considered retirement but has stayed in shape and could play again if a team shows interest.
Wagner proved he has the versatility to play either tackle spot, a most sought-after trait of tackles nowadays. His pass blocking is better than his run blocking, which may suit the Bears who are keen to finally maximize the talents of their receivers.
Russell Okung
Okung was most-recently the starting left tackle for the Carolina Panthers last season. He missed time in the middle of the season and when he returned he wasn’t quite the same, which is worrying.
However, the Bears should be able to get a great discount on the 33-year-old. If Okung can return to his old form now that he’s been able to spend some time away from football, the Bears have hit the jackpot.
Mitchell Schwartz
Schwartz remains the hottest lineman still on the market. He underwent back surgery in February but and hasn’t made a declaration if he’s planning on playing, but if he wants back on the field, Chicago should make an offer.
Schwartz was a stalwart on the Chiefs line for almost a decade, and his best play isn’t far behind him. If he can stay healthy, Schwartz will be one of the league’s premier offensive tackles who would really help to stabilize an extremely shaky offensive line.