Here’s the Quick -n- Dirrty..
- The Bears have had many injuries this season, preventing the offense from building consistency and chemistry.
- Several veteran players like Cody Whitehair, Eddie Jackson, and Lucas Patrick are likely going to be cut in the offseason, freeing up significant cap space.
- The Bears could have around $87 million in cap space in 2024 after cuts, giving GM Ryan Poles money to spend.
- The 2024 free agent and draft classes are very strong on the offensive line and skill positions, allowing the Bears to add talent.
- Questions remain whether the cap money is best spent on offense or defense and in free agency or the draft.
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Hey there, fellow Bears Fans!
The 2023 Chicago Bears Have Faced Adversity, But Brighter Days Are Ahead in 2024
The 2023 season has been disappointing for Bears fans, as injuries and inconsistent play have led to a lackluster record. However, there is reason for optimism looking ahead to 2024. Host Brent C. breaks down the Bears’ outlook, including potential cap space, free agent targets, and the highly touted 2024 draft class.
Injuries Have Derailed the Bears Offense in 2023
A recurring theme of the Bears’ 2023 season has been injuries, especially on the offensive side of the ball. According to Brent C., the starting offensive lineup has only been fully healthy for 3-4 games all season. Such lack of continuity has made building chemistry and consistency nearly impossible. A good offensive line depends on availability and cohesion, which the Bears have sorely lacked.
Veteran Offensive Linemen Like Lucas Patrick and Cody Whitehair Are Likely Out After 2023
Looking ahead, center Lucas Patrick is in the last year of his Bears contract. Brent C. expects GM Ryan Poles to let the veteran walk in free agency. Patrick has struggled against top-tier defensive fronts. Another likely departure is guard Cody Whitehair, who has played decently but dealt with injuries and declines in play. Cutting Whitehair after June 1st would save Chicago $10 million in 2024 cap space. Though Whitehair has given the Bears some solid years, it may be time to move on.
Eddie Jackson Is Still Respected but the Bears May Cut Him Too
Safety Eddie Jackson remains a locker room leader but has seen drops in production. With a 2024 cap hit over $18 million, Jackson’s play no longer justifies his high price. By cutting Jackson as a post-June 1 designation, the Bears could save around $14 million next year. Jackson is still a defensive captain, yet his missed tackles and coverage errors suggest his best days are behind him. Saving $14 million may eclipse his intangible merits.
Over $85 Million in Projected 2024 Cap Space Gives GM Ryan Poles Options
By Brent C.’s math, cutting Patrick, Whitehair, and Jackson would free up over $34 million in cap savings. When added to an estimated $63 million in existing space, that gives Chicago around $87 million in total 2024 cap room. Ryan Poles could then be very active in both free agency and re-signing promising young players. The Bears also reduce dead money obligations significantly in 2024. After $36 million in dead charges in 2023, that number falls to just $900k next season. Poles has adeptly cleaned up Chicago’s books.
Free Agency Crop Looks Strong at Positions of Need for the Bears
The 2024 free agent class looks strong at defensive line and offensive line, two clear areas of need for Chicago. With Akiem Hicks leaving after 2022, the Bears still need a high-impact 3-technique defensive tackle to be the catalyst of Matt Eberflus’ defense. Several strong options could be available. Additionally, the team has not yet found a long-term answer at center to anchor the offensive line. Free agency provides possible plug-and-play starters.
Bears Could Craft a Fearsome Pass Rush in 2024
Current defensive end Robert Quinn was traded mid-season, but replacement Montez Sweat has excelled. In 2024, adding another top-tier pass rusher opposite Sweat could give Chicago an elite pass rush. Brent C. dreams of the Bears creating havoc like the Cleveland Browns’ defensive front. Additional rotation pieces from the draft and free agency could go a long way.
The 2024 Draft Class Is Stocked With Offensive Playmakers at Key Positions
Beyond free agency, Brent C. is extremely excited about the talentlevel in the upcoming 2024 NFL draft. He considers it one of the deepest classes ever for offensive skill position players and linemen. The tackle, guard, center and wide receiver groups look especially flush with playmaking talent. If GM Ryan Poles nails his picks as hoped, quarterback Justin Fields could have dramatically upgraded weapons and protection in his third season. The upcoming class offers big upgrade potential.
Cap Space Allows Chicago to Be Aggressive in Seeking Offensive Improvements
In terms of budgeting cap money for 2024, Brent C. put the decision back onto the fans. Should Ryan Poles invest heavily in fixing the offensive line? Look for receiving weapons and running back depth to help Justin Fields? Or add more pieces to the rising defense? The estimated $87 million provides the flexibility to address multiple needs. Poles has a chance to make major strides in Year 2 of his roster overhaul. He is only months away from putting his mark on free agency and the draft.
The 2023 Bears Had Their Struggles, But the Arrow Is Pointing Up for 2024 and Beyond
This season was filled with injuries and discouraging losses for Chicago. However, Brent C. believes coached, players, and fans can stay positive looking ahead to 2024. With copious projected cap space, cuts of declining veterans, a strong free agent class, and loaded draft, GM Ryan Poles can retool the roster. The defense already shows promise, and a offensive infusion of talent could make the Bears very competitive very soon. The future looks bright even after the bleak 2023 season. There are plenty of reasons for Bears fans to say “wait until next year.”
Bear Down Bears fans! and as always… PEACE!
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