Top Free Agents The Chicago Bears Should Retain

Sep 29, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) passes the ball during the fourth quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. The Lions won 40-32. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Over the next few weeks, we’ll take a closer look at the Chicago Bears’ free agent situation, including players available around the league that may fit the team’s needs this offseason.  In Part 1 of the series, let’s take a look at some of the current Bears that the organization should re-sign:

OFFENSE

Jay Cutler

I have been one of Cutler’s biggest critics over the past few years, but the combination of Cutler, head coach Marc Trestman’s new offense and the slew of Bears’ offensive weapons are just too good to pass up.  General Manager Phil Emery needs to really work this deal in the Bears’ favor though, and not overpay Cutler.  The franchise tag is too much of a salary cap hit for the team to take, so a 4-5 incentive-laced deal with some money deferred would work strongly in the Bears’ favor.

Josh McCown

The Bears need insurance if they choose to invest in Cutler and McCown is the perfect candidate.  He’s won over the fan base with his performance this season in Cutler’s absence and has shown the leadership and gamesmanship that does wonders in a locker room.

Matt Slauson

Slauson provides a toughness and swagger that the Bears’ offensive line hasn’t seen in years.  Keeping him in the mix would give the Bears an opportunity to develop some younger linemen over the next few years.

Roberto Garza

This may have been the most difficult one to justify since Garza has underwhelmed this season at the center of the offensive line.  The team’s continuous struggles in short-yardage situations can’t entirely be blamed on Garza, but he needs to provide much more of a push on the interior.  Regardless, Garza should return to the Bears if Cutler does as well.