NFL Free Agency isn’t officially underway, but there is no shortage of Chicago Bears Free Agent rumors to go around. Let’s look at the moves that involve the Bears comings and goings:
Pernell McPhee, DE/OLB
It appears the Ryan Pace era’s first Chicago Bears free agent will be former Baltimore Ravens DE/OLB Pernell McPhee. Reports from the Baltimore Sun indicate the Bears and McPhee agreed on a 5-year deal worth a reported $40 million with $16 guaranteed. At 280 pounds, McPhee can play the 5-technique defensive end but has the athleticism to slide outside and play outside linebacker and bring a pass rushing presence out of the 3-4 defense.
Antrel Rolle, S
The Bears are considered front runners to land the former Giants Pro Bowl safety. At age 32, Rolle wouldn’t necessarily be a long-term solution at safety, but could serve as a stop-gap for the next couple of seasons.
Was under impression #Bears defensive FAs would skew young young young. Now hearing 32 yo Antrel Rolle in the mix...hmmm. #NFLFreeAgency
— Jen Lada (@JenLada) March 9, 2015
Brooks Reed, OLB
Jets, Atlanta, Chicago, Arizona and Oakland pursuing OLB Brooks Reed.
— John McClain (@McClain_on_NFL) March 9, 2015
Stefen Wisniewski, C
Despite inking veteran center Roberto Garza to an extension last season, the Bears are hot after former Raider center Stefen Wisniewski. Wisniewski has played both center and guard for the Raiders. Could a move to add him signal a position change for Kyle Long?
Davon House, CB
Improving the secondary and taking a player from the Packers? Sounds good to me!
The market for CB Davon House is heating up. Potential landing spots: #Packers, #Jets, #Jags, #Seahawks, #Bears, #Cowboys.
— Rand Getlin (@RandGetlin) March 9, 2015
Mason Foster, ILB
From FoxSports on Foster:
"“The good thing about Mason is not only can he play in the 4-3 as a Mike (middle) or a Sam (strong side), but he can play in the 3-4 at either middle linebacker spot. He has versatility to play for just about any defense in the league.”"
As we've said since last month, Bears are definitely interested in Mason Foster, too.
— Michael C. Wright (@mikecwright) March 9, 2015
Stephen Paea, DT
The Bears could be losing one of their own free agents in all of the shuffling. Wouldn’t be a huge surprise given the Bears are in the midst of changing schemes and Paea isn’t best suited to play nose tackle in a 3-4 scheme.
Hearing the Redskins are closing in on a 4 year deal with DT Stephen Paea. #NFLFreeAgency
— Jen Lada (@JenLada) March 9, 2015
DJ Williams, ILB
Not a big surprise
Not expected back in CHI “@JosinaAnderson: Source: LB D.J. Williams. "Def plans on playing still." Placed on IR last year w/ a neck injury.”
— Jen Lada (@JenLada) March 9, 2015
Stay tuned to Bear Goggles On for all your Chicago Bears Free Agent rumors and check back when they officially sign their 2015 free agent class.