3 Moves the Chicago Bears should make to fix the defensive line in 2023
The Chicago Bears need to sign Daron Payne
We have heard Matt Eberflus talk highly of the 3-technique position and speak to how important it is for his defense. Justin Jones has played decently this season, but not good enough to remain the starting 3-technique in 2023. Going out and signing Daron Payne would instantly improve this line next season. It cannot be the only focus, but Payne is one of the better 3-techniques in the league.
Washington could look to re-sign him or possibly franchise tag him. However, their cap space situation isn’t the greatest. We all know that teams can find a way to magically move cap dollars around though, and one or both of these options could be on the table for the Commanders and Payne.
Payne is having his best year as a pass rusher. He has 9.5 sacks this season — a career high. Payne is also only 25 years old. This again is why he probably won’t be a likely candidate to hit free agency. However, if for some reason he does, the Chicago Bears cannot allow him to move onto another team.