4 Free Agent DL connected to Chicago Bears coaching staff
1. Maliek Collins is a perfect fit with Chicago Bears
Maliek Collins has more connection to this roster than any of the other options. Collins was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 2016. The coach who was there at the time was Rod Marinelli. Matt Eberflus was the linebackers coach at the time, so while he did not work with Collins hands-on, he worked with him on defense and surely heard a strong report on him from Marinelli.
Collins moved around a bit and played for the Texans most recently. However, in 2020 he was with the Raiders, and that meant a reunion with Marinelli. That also meant meeting Travis Smith for the first time. So, Collins was able to work with the Chicago Bears’ current defensive line coach as well as their head coach.
Collins had impressive tape in 2021 and was always a talented player. His fit would be good in the defense, and while he is older than Bilal Nichols, the price tag will be cheaper and the familiarity with the new defense and coaching staff will be much stronger.
Keep an eye on Maliek Collins as a potential strong fit with the Chicago Bears in free agency.