Chicago Bears Free Agency: Blueprint to the perfect 2023 offseason

The Chicago Bears must make this move quickly in free agency

Even without the arrest of Jalen Carter, I would still want the Chicago Bears to make a move in free agency for a new 3-technique. With Daron Payne franchise tagged, that leaves three names I'd consider signing - Dre'Mont Jones, Javon Hargrave and Poona Ford. There are rumors Hargrave could be franchise tagged. If I had my choice, Dre'Mont Jones is the guy I'd sign anyway.

Jones is a defensive end/tackle for the Denver Broncos and reports are that he will be allowed to test free agency. He is coming off a career year for the Broncos and has scheme versatility to play both the end or 3-technique spots. Last season, Jones finished with 6.5 sacks, 10 QB hits, nine tackles for loss, and a forced fumble while only playing 13 games. Over his first four seasons in the NFL, he has accumulated 22 sacks, 38 QB hits, 28 tackles for loss, 133 tackles and 60 pressures. He is also only 26 years old. Jones would be an immediate upgrade over Justin Jones.

Rumors are that Dre'Mont Jones is looking for somewhere between $60 and $70 million dollars. If I were Ryan Pace, I'd be happy to give him $70 million over 4 years for $17.5 million per year. That would make him tied for seventh in the NFL in average salary at the defensive tackle position. This cannot be the only move Poles makes though.