There is no doubt that the Chicago Bears need to improve their offensive line this offseason. The market for linemen in free agency is stacked with talent and now the Chiefs have released Eric Fisher and Mitchell Schwartz, both would be solid options to bring in to play tackle, either on the left or right side.
Eric Fisher was the number one overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, and while he has not been the wall that the Chiefs envisioned he would be, he has been very solid — especially in the latter part of his career.
Unfortunately, he tore his Achilles in the playoffs last year and with an uncertain future, the Chiefs decided to let him go to get his cap hit off the books. Mitchell Schwartz has been one of the better right tackles in the NFL for a few years now, but he too has suffered injury-plagued seasons the last couple of years. He missed almost all of last year due to injury, and right now is contemplating his future in the NFL.
While the dueling tackle releases are jarring, both are injury-related. Mitchell Schwartz recently had surgery and has decisions to make about his future, while Eric Fisher has a torn Achilles — an uphill battle to be ready for the season, though he is working hard at it. https://t.co/0yk1N68wW0
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 11, 2021
Could the Chicago Bears pursue Mitchell Schwartz or Eric Fisher?
The Bears just released Bobby Massie so their need at tackle is more pressing than ever. The Bears most likely do not want to spend a lot of money on an offensive lineman as their cap space is already tight. There are some great options in the draft in the first two or three rounds.
Still, drafting a player comes with some question marks. If the Bears are looking to sign a veteran to play tackle, they cannot do much better than Mitchell Schwartz. He is a four-time All-Pro. He also has been a right tackle throughout his career, so he would fill the spot nicely for the Bears. The only question is about money and health.
Both players could be in line for some good money after having success the last few years, especially Mitchell Schwartz. Yet, since they are both coming off serious injuries, their price tags could be down. Both would also be in play for a short-term deal since they are a bit older. Schwartz would be an immediate upgrade on the line at right tackle, barring injuries. Eric Fisher could play either tackle spot, although he has spent his career as a blind-side blocker.
Even though they might be looking at some sure Super Bowl contenders, Eric Fisher and Mitchell Schwartz could both be solid options for the Bears to bring in on a short-term, team-friendly deal. The injury concerns are there, but if the money is right it might be worth the risk.