Chicago Bears: 3 Free agents who deserve tryouts to replace Artie Burns

The Chicago Bears should look hold tryouts to replace Artie Burns

We are only two days into padded practices and injuries are occurring all over the NFL. The biggest loss thus far was the Cowboys losing their new defensive tackle Gerald McCoy. The Chicago Bears might have lost the second most important player at this point in Artie Burns. Burns went down yesterday with a left knee injury yesterday. The team later diagnosed that he tore his ACL and will be out for the rest of the season.

Burns had been running with the Bears first-team unit opposite of Kyle Fuller. Although many expected rookie Jaylon Johnson to overtake the position, losing Burns at this point in the season is a big blow. Those of you saying Kevin Toliver is the answer need to dive deeper into his play. He showed flashes in 2018 that had more to do with the front seven than his ability to play corner at an elite level.

Quarterbacks have averaged over 67 percent completions when throwing in Toliver’s direction. This is based on only 34 targets over two years. In 2018, quarterbacks averaged a quarterback rating of 87.3 while targeting Toliver. Last year that number jumped to 122.4. We need to remember that Toliver was an undrafted free agent.

Could Toliver still develop into something? Sure, but I am not willing to count on Toliver for a full season. For those saying he just needs an opportunity, you might be right, but nothing has shown that to this point. Burns jumped him immediately on the depth chart despite not being on the team last season. Clearly the Bears view Toliver as a backup who can spot start if needed. With free agents still available, the team should bring these three in for a tryout.