Three veterans the Chicago Bears could sign in free agency
Byron Murphy, CB
The 33rd overall selection in the 2019 NFL Draft, Arizona Cardinal Byron Murphy could be available this offseason, and the Bears would be smart to pursue him if possible. Murphy has been a relatively consistent boundary corner throughout his young career, starting in 48 of the 56 games he has suited up for.
With five interceptions and 34 pass deflections, Murphy has been a disruptive presence in the passing game, but is also an active tackler on the backend, with nearly 230 total tackles in his career.
Murphy had somewhat of a down season in 2022, giving up a 103 QBR when targeted, but with two impressive seasons in 2020 and 2021, adding Murphy would not only be worth the risk of a modest contract offer but would allow him to play outside opposite of Jaylon Johnson and would move Kyler Gordon to more of a slot role going forward.
Taylor Rapp, S
A Super Bowl champion just a season ago, the Los Angeles Rams safety Taylor Rapp would be an interesting addition to a Bears defense that already has two talented safeties. Rapp, who has played both free and strong safety for the Rams, could be an ideal third safety to start in relief of either Brisker or Jackson. Or they can join them on the field for a three-safety look, which is becoming more and more common across the league.
Rapp, who overlapped at the University of Washington with Murphy, is a solid defensive back who gets involved all over the field. Through 47 starts in 56 games, the safety has accumulated 22 pass deflections and nine interceptions, as well as 325 total tackles. As a safety, Rapp is somewhat conservative in coverage, surrendering a 70% or worse completion percentage in three of his four seasons, despite letting on average 2.5 touchdowns per year.
Jabrill Peppers, S/ATH
Especially considering the fact that the Bears already have two quality safeties in Jackson and Brisker, Jabrill Peppers would be an interesting addition to add depth and complexity to this secondary. In college, Peppers played safety, linebacker, and cornerback, and served as a kick/punt returner and a utility weapon on offense. His versatility has decreased a little as a pro, but even this past season in New England, Peppers played all across the defense.
In six seasons, Peppers has contributed all over the defensive side of the ball, with four interceptions, 25 pass deflections, 4.5 sacks, and nearly 400 tackles in 77 career games. At 5’11” and 215 pounds, Peppers’ size and athleticism could allow Eberflus to put him all across the defense — either as a third safety, slot cornerback, or even a weak-side linebacker.