NFL.com is reporting that the Bears may be readying to make a run at a big name free agent defensive end such as the Panther’s Julius Peppers or division rival Green Bay’s Aaron Kampman.

Defensive end is clearly a position of need for the Bears.  With Adewale Ogunleye headed to free agency himself and the tragic passing of Gaines Adams, the Bears are left with Alex Brown and a handful of projects.

Last season the Bears tallied 35 sacks and struggled to get a consistent pass rush without blitzing.  That certainly weakened the much maligned Cover-2, which is predicated on getting pressure from the front four.  (more…)