Here’s the Quick -n- Dirrty..
- The Bears should target free agent center Lloyd Cushenberry in 2024 to improve their offensive line and run game. He’s 26 years old and could solidify the position for 3-4 years.
- Daniel Hunter, DE for the Vikings, is another potential 2024 free agent target. He already has 15.5 sacks this year at age 29. However, his $17 million salary could be an issue.
- Chase Young, currently with the Commanders, is another DE option in free agency. He has 7 sacks this year after returning from injury. He’s younger but has an extensive injury history.
- The Bears need to keep improving their defensive line, and free agency gives them options to complement draft picks.
- GM Ryan Poles has work to do building the roster for 2024 and beyond through free agency and the draft. The team looks poised for big things.
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Hey there, fellow Bears Fans!
The 2023 NFL season is winding down, and Chicago Bears fans are already looking ahead to 2024 free agency as a chance to continue building a contender. GM Ryan Poles has his work cut out, but the team looks poised for big things next year. There are several potential free agent targets that could help transform this Bears roster into an NFC bully.
At the top of the wish list for many fans is Denver Broncos center Lloyd Cushenberry. He would help solidify an offensive line that struggles in both run blocking and pass protection. At 26 years old and 315 pounds, Cushenberry could man the pivot for the next 3-4 seasons. With better OL play, the Bears’ running game could return to elite status with a healthy David Montgomery. Solidifying the trenches is key to both blocking for electric QB Justin Fields and unlocking the team’s rushing upside.
Some defensive line help will also be needed, as veterans like Robert Quinn and Al-Quadin Muhammad will be another year older. Danielle Hunter of the Vikings is an intriguing potential signee that could take Chicago’s pass rush to another level. Despite being 29 already, Hunter has posted over 15 sacks this season. The question is whether his high $17 million salary makes sense for the Bears’ budget next year. An incentive-laden deal may be required to add his prowess while limiting risk.
Former #2 overall pick Chase Young presents another pass rushing option if he doesn’t re-sign in Washington. He would rejoin college teammate Montez Sweat on the edges of the Bears defense. Young managed 7 sacks this year in his return from injury, but his health is always a top concern. His upside and age make him worthy of a multi-year contract offer in the $10-12 million per year range in Chicago’s scheme.
No matter Ryan Poles’ exact approach in free agency for the Bears, improving the offensive and defensive fronts will let Chicago better compete with NFC North heavyweights like Green Bay and Minnesota. Draft picks should supplement free agent signings to build a well-rounded roster ready for playoff contention. If health and development go according to plan, this Bears team has potential for great things in 2024. Securing assets like Cushenberry, Hunter and Young would go a long way towards building a bully ready to battle in the NFC North for years to come.
The 2023 season’s home stretch gives Poles and company ample time to evaluate roster needs and cap space heading into a pivotal offseason. Free agent decisions will shape the immediate future of the franchise as they look to give young centerpieces like Justin Fields and Jaquan Brisker the support needed to lead this team. If the front office plays their cards right, Bears fans could soon be relishing an NFC North division title and return to playoff glory.
Bear Down Bears fans! and as always… PEACE!
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