The Chicago Bears are looking at adding a veteran linebacker for Matt Eberflus’ defense.
According to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, the Bears hosted former Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Anthony Hitchens for a visit on Thursday.
This is the first free agent visit for Hitchens this offseason, and it makes sense considering his ties to both general manager Ryan Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus.
Hitchens played under Eberflus for four seasons with the Dallas Cowboys from 2014-17. Hitchens then signed a five-year, $45 million contract with the Chiefs, which is where the Poles connection comes into play.
Hitchens joined the Chiefs in 2018, where he went on to have a career year with 135 tackles. Last year, Hitchens had 80 tackles and an interception in 15 games. He was key in their Super Bowl LIV run just a few years ago.
The Bears have a need at linebacker alongside star Roquan Smith. With the transition to a 4-3 defense, that leaves two vacant starting jobs alongside Smith.
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