Just before the legal free agency tampering window opened at 12 PM ET on Monday, the Chicago Bears missed out on a reunion for one of their most beloved defensive players in recent history. Khalil Mack, who spent four seasons as a Chicago Bear and his last two with the Los Angeles Chargers, is staying put in Los Angeles.
After speculation about a potential return to Chicago was fueled by a video released by the team on their X social media platform, the possibility came to an end before free agency began. The connection made sense not only because of the team's teaser video, but most importantly, their urgent need to upgrade their pass rush. With Mack off the board, here's a look at three available free agents for Chicago to consider adding to bolster their pass rushing unit.
Josh Sweat - Eagles
Coming off a performance in Super Bowl LIX that had him as a top contender for the Super Bowl MVP award, Josh Sweat should get a nice payday. One of the biggest defensive contributors for the Philadelphia Eagles in their championship season. This past season, Sweat combined for 51 tackles and 10.5 sacks between the regular season and playoffs, while the Bears had Montez Sweat as the team-leader in sacks with just 5.5 on the year. The two have no relation to one another, but adding another Sweat to the defensive line will open up opportunties for the former, while the latter should get the contract he's seeking and the chance to thrive in a defense under new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen.
Malcolm Koonce - Raiders
If Josh Sweat is the high-profile target, Koonce could be an intriguing target with an unknown price tag. After missing all of this past season due to a knee injury, Koonce hits the open market with a very impressive season in 2023 where he compiled a total of 43 tackles and 8 sacks. His price will be interesting as the last time he played, he thrived, but missing all of last season undoubtedly hurts his value. If Chicago decides to want to be cost-effective on a 27-year-old talent, Koonce would fit the bill. Besides, the last time they took a player from the Raiders who played at University at Buffalo, it was Khalil Mack.
Azeez Ojulari - Giants
One of the most underrated names at edge rusher this offseason, Azeez Ojulari produced well in limited action throughout his four seasons with the New York Giants. Since being a second-round pick in 2021, Ojulari totaled 22 sacks in four seasons and was behind Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux this past season. When discussing a player who can just get after the quarterback, Ojulari is a name to watch as someone who could be more affordable than the other two listed names, and could thrive on a defense that will give him much more playing time than he had with his most recent team.