The Chicago Bears have done a solid job of addressing their needs in free agency. They are starting to get into a spot where they can draft the best player available at most draft slots. However, if they want to truly do that, the next addition they should make in free agency is running back.
It is easy to link Ashton Jeanty to the Bears at pick 10, but the team may want to look in another direction. Smoke is starting to build around Jeanty going sixth to the Raiders. The Bears currently have D’Andre Swift, who cannot be a full-time starter, and Roschon Johnson, who has hardly been able to stay on the field in his short NFL career. Beyond that, they have Ian Wheeler.
The Bears are going to draft a running back, even if it is not with the tenth overall pick. They have enough picks and this is a deep enough draft that they could find one in nearly any portion. However, they cannot go into the draft with that glaring need.
Chicago Bears must sign a free agent running back
They do not have to add a big name, but some experience in the room would help. Names such as Jamaal Williams or Gus Edwards could fill that role. The Bears could also take a swing on injury risks J.K. Dobbins or Nick Chubb. Both of them have to see their price tag dropping, and at a certain point, Chicago could take a swing. Even someone like Cam Akers could at least add depth to the room.
The Bears would be smart to explore the running back free agent market next.