The Chicago Bears are gearing up for the start of free agency, where general manager Ryan Poles is looking to round out the roster heading into the 2024 season.
Chicago is sitting with roughly $80 million in salary cap space, which is the third most in the NFL. Poles has plenty to work with when it comes to addressing key needs, including edge rusher, center, wide receiver, safety and tight end.
There are plenty of big-name free agents set to hit the open market — and some who could be hit with the franchise tag before the March 5 deadline — for the Bears to consider.
Let’s check out 30 potential free agents that Chicago could target in a couple weeks:
Dec 25, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones (95) is introduced against the Las Vegas Raiders prior to a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Chris Jones is one of the best interior pass rushers in the NFL, and if the Chiefs somehow let him hit free agency, he’ll the top free agent on the board for most teams, including the Bears.
Nov 5, 2023; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers linebacker Brian Burns (0) during the second half against the Indianapolis Colts at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
The Bears would’ve taken Brian Burns in the trade of the No. 1 pick last year (although DJ Moore has proved to be a stud). If Burns isn’t slapped with the franchise tag, he should be a top target for Chicago.
Dec 10, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Justin Madubuike (92) enters the field before the game against the Los Angeles Rams during the at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Another top interior pass rusher who could hit the open market, Justin Madubuike should be in for a massive payday this free agency. But would Chicago spend that kind of money on an interior defender?
Sep 10, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Antoine Winfield Jr. (31) celebrates his fumble recovery against the Minnesota Vikings in the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Antoine Winfield Jr. is the top safety expected to hit free agency, where his versatility in the box, in the slot or as a free safety will have him in high demand. Eddie Jackson has…
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