5 quality free agents still available for the Chicago Bears
By Evan Bruner
Chicago Bears free agent option No. 2: Akiem Hicks, DT
It seemed like a given Akiemm Hicks would leave the Bears after how the 2021 season ended, but neither side has found a replacement yet. This could lead to Hicks returning to the Windy City for another year.
The case for signing Hicks
Bears fans already know what Hicks is all about. A high motor player who eats up space, opening up opportunities for the rest of the defense. It may be hard for the average fan to understand Hicks’ impact on the defense, but those who watch the game understand that his impact goes well beyond the box score.
Though Hicks isn’t quite the player he once was, he’s probably a better alternative than anyone else on the roster. It was one thing to let him walk when it seemed like Ogunjobi was going to be brought in to replace him, but right now, the interior defensive line in Chicago isn’t very intimidating.
The case against signing Hicks
As much as Bears fans love Hicks, he has regressed ever since his 2018 season. On top of this, he’s had trouble staying on the field, missing eight games in 2021 and 11 in 2019. The Bears might be better suited to look for a player with a future with the organization rather than a past.