Chicago Bears Top 5 Free Agent Targets

Jan 18, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Green Bay Packers tackle Bryan Bulaga (75) defends against Seattle Seahawks defensive end Cliff Avril (56) in the NFC Championship at CenturyLink Field. The Seahawks defeated the Packers 28-22 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

3. Bryan Bulaga, OT, Packers:  Wouldn’t it be great if the Bears could steal a player of Bulaga’s caliber from their bitter rivals?  The former first round pick out of Iowa  has emerged as one of the top right tackles in the league, a position the Bears could sorely use an upgrade at.  By signing Bulaga, the Bears could simultaneously better themselves and weaken the Packers.  That seems like an excellent way to close the talent gap in a hurry.

4. Antonio Cromartie, CB, Cardinals:  Cromartie had a phenomenal 2014 season and should get a sizable payday this offseason because of it.  At 6-2, 210 pounds, the former Florida State Seminole appears to be an ideal fit for the Bears’ new defensive scheme and could give them the upgrade the desperately need opposite rookie standout Kyle Fuller.  Talent has never been the issue with Cromartie.  The problem in the past has been work ethic, which is why he has played on so many different teams.  That obviously worries me, since we’re talking about the Bears potentially giving him a sizable deal.  Age is also a concern.  At 30 years old, how many more years could he possibly have in him?

5. Michael Wilhoite, LB, 49ers:  Wilhoite won’t be on many writers’ wish lists this offseason, but he made mine.  He has been buried on San Francisco’s depth chart behind Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman so far in his NFL career, but has performed well when called upon.  His familiarity with Vic Fangio’s scheme is an obvious plus, and the Bears likely wouldn’t have to break the bank to land him.  At age 28, he could provide the Bears with a stop gap for several years while they work on retooling a large portion of the defensive roster.  The 6-0, 240 pounder is a restricted free agent, but I’m not sure the 49ers will tender him.

Who are your top free agent targets for the Bears this offseason?  Let me know in the Comments…