The upcoming offseason holds immense potential for the Chicago Bears, presenting a significant opportunity with two top-10 picks in the 2024 NFL Draft and securing the third-highest cap space in the league.
General Manager Ryan Poles and Head Coach Matt Eberflus, recognizing the pivotal nature of this period, understand that their positions could be on the line if the team doesn’t make substantial improvements.
While much of the spotlight centers on the quarterback situation, particularly the decision regarding Justin Fields, the Bears face a crucial juncture.
The team must navigate this critical offseason judiciously, and there are three decisions that demand careful consideration and avoidance to ensure a successful and impactful offseason.
The Bears must avoid passing on a rookie quarterback again
I’ve oscillated on this matter, even advocating for the Bears to stick with Justin Fields in a piece I wrote last December. However, it seems prudent for both sides to consider parting ways.
In the previous season, the Bears retained Fields, bypassing the opportunity to draft talents like Bryce Young, CJ Stroud, Will Levis, and Anthony Richardson.
The question arises: will the team repeat this decision? While the prospect of securing significant assets from another team is enticing, there’s uncertainty about whether the Bears’ fanbase can endure witnessing the team pass on another group of promising talents.
Fields has shown glimpses of potential as a franchise quarterback, but the crucial question remains:
has he elevated his game to the level of an elite signal-caller? The answer appears uncertain. Trading Fields would undoubtedly be a tough decision, but so would forgoing the chance to draft another elite rookie.
The Bears’ decision-makers must trust their instincts and opt for a quarterback with the first pick. A fresh start seems to be the optimal scenario for all parties involved.
The Bears cannot allow Jaylon Johnson to leave
It is imperative for the Chicago Bears to retain Jaylon Johnson this offseason, as allowing him to sign elsewhere would be a significant loss.
In 2023, Johnson delivered his most exceptional season as a professional, earning second-team All-Pro honors, securing a spot in the Pro Bowl, and achieving an impressive 90.8 PFF grade.
His contributions included 36 tackles, a forced fumble, and four interceptions, making him the standout cornerback on a Bears team that ranked 25th in opponent passing yards per game.
Spotrac estimates Johnson’s market value at around $15.7 million annually, indicating a substantial financial commitment required from the Bears to retain him.
Notably, Johnson is eligible for the franchise tag until March 5, offering an additional avenue for the team to secure his services. With the 2024 salary cap reaching an NFL-record level, the Bears have ample financial resources at their disposal.
Recognized as the most crucial free agent for the Bears, Johnson stands as a player the team cannot afford to move forward without.
The Bears cannot fail to upgrade at the WR2 position
The Chicago Bears are in dire need of bolstering their wide receiver corps, a crucial move regardless of the quarterback situation.
In the 2023 season, the disparity in receptions was evident, with DJ Moore leading with 96 catches, followed by tight end Cole Kmet with 73. Surprisingly, the third spot went to rookie running back Roschon Johnson, who managed 34 receptions.
Darnell Mooney’s underwhelming performance in 2023, accumulating just 31 catches for 414 yards and one touchdown, raises concerns.
Additionally, Tyler Scott, Equanimeous St. Brown, and Velus Jones, Jr. failed to make significant contributions. Mooney, set for free agency, is projected by Spotrac to command $10.4 million, a figure the Bears should be cautious about.
Under no circumstances should the Bears commit to a $10 million-plus contract for Mooney, especially considering the depth in this year’s free-agent class of receivers.
The Bears, armed with the No. 9 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, also have the opportunity to secure a talented rookie.
It is imperative for the team to address the receiver position comprehensively this offseason, as failure to do so would be a significant setback, complicating the situation for whoever assumes the quarterback role.