Ryan Poles’ Likely Next Move For Bears Roster Was Just Revealed
The Chicago Bears have been busy over the past week. GM Ryan Poles secured no fewer than five notable veterans to sizable contracts. It started with the dual trades for guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson. That was swiftly followed by the arrival of center Drew Dalman in free agency. Finally, there was a pivot to the defensive line where the Bears secured defensive Dayo Odeyingbo and Grady Jarrett. It was a whirlwind few days that seemed to have given the roster a significant jolt where it needed it most.
Other than that, Poles has been busy doing work on the fringes. Durham Smythe came over from Miami to help with their tight end position. Wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus signed a couple of days later, adding depth and versatility to the passing game and special teams. That leaves the obvious question. Where do the Bears go next? Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune offered a hint about that in his recent column.
The pressing needs on the roster have been filled. There could be a slow trickle of additions over the next couple of weeks as the market settles and the Bears seek players to add competition. Maybe they’ll shop for a safety to add depth. Another wide receiver is a possibility.
Safety is a quiet issue Ryan Poles can’t ignore.
He faces three notable issues at the position. Jaquan Brisker is coming off a concussion that knocked him out for most of the season. His future in the league is worth questioning. Not to mention, he’s in the last year of his rookie deal. Kevin Byard is still a solid veteran but turns 32 years old in August. The Bears have no long-term security in the starting lineup, and that’s before you look at the depth situation. Elijah Hicks, Jonathan Owens, and Tarvarious Moore are their options right now. It stands to reason new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen may want to shake that up.
There are some interesting options to consider. Vonn Bell is still available. He played under Allen in New Orleans, although he also turns 32 this year. Julian Blackmon is a young option they could look at, though he’ll want a starting job. John Johnson, Jordan Fuller, and Mike Edwards are other veterans with proven track records. It will likely come down to what kind of money they want and the talent Allen seeks. That is where Ryan Poles must do his homework.