Chicago Bears Stay or Go: HaHa Clinton-Dix

Should the Chicago Bears bring back HaHa Clinton-Dix, or let him walk?

HaHa Clinton-Dix signed a one-year with the Chicago Bears last spring. The idea for him was to join an elite defense, bounce back after his reputation took a hit, and sign a long-term extension in the offseason.

The defense was good in 2019, but did take a step back from their 2018 version. It brings a question of what type of value Clinton-Dix may have this year.

If the Bears can bring him back on a reasonable price, should they? Should they be interested in a long term deal, or should they thank Clinton-Dix for his service and let him walk?

Stay

When you talk about bang for your buck, the Bears got that from Clinton-Dix. He did not show a huge drop off from Adrian Amos, and considering the prices, signing him and letting Amos walk was the right decision.

While the Bears defense did not take a step forward, giving Clinton-Dix the second year in the new scheme and with Eddie Jackson for another year, they could see more cohesiveness.

As mentioned, his market still may not be as high as he wants, and the Bears could see him back on a cheaper than expected deal.

Pass

Clinton-Dix misses too many tackles. He is versatile, but the Bears did not trust him in the box. They put Eddie Jackson in the box much more often in 2019, about 100 snaps more than in 2018.

Some of this can be scheme related to Chuck Pagano, but adding a physical presence who makes big tackles in the box should be what the Bears prioritize over safety with ball skills such as Clinton-Dix.

It was worth a shot, but with the lack of ball production from Jackson in 2019, they should find a different running partner who brings out the best in him.