Chicago Bears 5 biggest needs following first wave of free agency
By Joseph Herff
Safety remains a need for the Chicago Bears as the team keeps rotating them
Eddie Jackson had a down season last season, but Bears’ fans should expect him to return to his regular form once Sean Desai installs the Vic Fangio defense back for the Bears. The concern surrounding the safety position is the safety starting alongside Jackson as the Bears could have their fourth different safety in four seasons.
Last season, Tashaun Gipson held down the other safety role extremely well. At some points in the season, he outplayed Jackson and looked good. He may get a nice contract due to that though. The Bears brought back Deon Bush, but he likely may not start unless the Bears draft a rookie to study under him. If the Bears address it in the draft, I’d like them to target a late-round safety that could develop behind Bush.
Draft:
- Ar’Darius Washington, TCU
- Damar Hamlin, Pittsburgh
- Tyree Gillespie, Missouri
- Reed Blankenship, Middle Tennessee
- Christian Uphoff, Illinois State
Free Agency:
- Malik Hooker, Indianapolis Colts
- Tashaun Gipson, Chicago Bears
- Ricardo Allen, Atlanta Falcons
- D.J. Swearinger, New Orleans Saints
- Tre Boston, Carolina Panthers
Next. Comparing Jeremiah Attaochu to Barkevious Mingo. dark
All of the draft picks above should be found in the fourth round or later. Drafting one of those guys to sit and learn under Bush and Jackson would be a great fit. Additionally, the Bears should keep their eyes on Malik Hooker’s market and see what his value is because they could give him a long-term contract, which he deserves. I additionally wouldn’t be opposed to the Bears giving Gipson a nice contract for up to three years.