Chicago Bears: 3 free agents who would instantly improve the roster

Chicago Bears Free Agent Target: Rick Wagner, OT

We all know that the Chicago Bears need help on the offensive line. The team went out and signed a nearly 40-year-old left tackle to replace their only plan at the most important position on the line. This was a mistake by Ryan Pace, but he has the ability to save face once again by bringing in another veteran like Rick Wagner who can help on the opposite side.

I am hopeful that Germain Ifedi was just shaking the rust off and getting back into game form with his first preseason performance versus the Titans. I am not ready to panic yet, but when there are free agent offensive linemen out there that are better than your current depth, and even one who can push Ifedi to start should he struggle, then this move is a must.

The other situation at hand is that Sam Mustipher is still very raw. I applaud Mustipher for his ability to play well enough that Juan Castillo and Matt Nagy feel comfortable enough with him as the starting center. I thought he’s looked well for the most part, but there are times he has been beaten or even somewhat manhandled. Mustipher is a little smaller and might never be able to put on the muscle needed to excel for a full season in the NFL. We shall see how it goes though.

If the team were to sign Wagner, then he could take over on the right side of the line should Ifedi struggle. The other option here is that Cody Whitehair or James Daniels moves into the center spot, Germain Ifedi can kick inside to the right guard spot, and Wagner holds down the right tackle spot.

Wagner was a fifth-round draft pick by the Ravens in 2013. Over his eight-year career, Wagner has only received a Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of under 70 twice. He is coming off a solid year in Green Bay when he started nine games and played well. I am surprised he has not signed yet.