The Chicago Bears could use some help along the defensive line. Their current roster is lacking some big-time sack potential at the defensive end position. Fans and analysts keep bringing up names like Yannick Ngakoue, Justin Houston and Frank Clark. Clark signed with the Denver Broncos, but Ngakoue and Houston are still on the market. Ngakoue is rumored to only want to play for a contender and I'm not sure Chicago would fall into that category in his mind.
Justin Houston could still be an option. He played under Matt Eberflus in Indianapolis for two years. Houston finished with 11 and eight sacks over that two-year span. At his age though, I'd assume he too would only consider a true Super Bowl contender.
The Chicago Bears could consider adding Dawuane Smoot to the roster
One name that I am not hearing from fans and other Chicago Bears analysts enough is Dawuane Smoot. Smoot could be an under-the-radar signing. He is coming off of an Achilles injury and that could drive his price down some. He is 28 years old and if the Jaguars do not retain him, then he could be a discounted option for Ryan Poles and Eberflus.
Although Smoot is coming off a tough injury, reports are that he is ahead of schedule. Spotrac has his projected salary at $13.7 million, but I have a feeling he could be had for much less. They are projecting him to receive a two-year deal worth just shy of $28 million. With the injury, I wouldn't be surprised if Smoot signs a one-year, prove-it deal.
Over the last four years, Dawuane Smoot has averaged just over 5.5 sacks per year. He has seen over five tackles for loss per year too. In 2020 and 2021, he had at least 30 pressures each year. He struggled to be as effective last season — another reason why his contract could come at a discount.
What do you think? Is Dawuane Smoot an option that Ryan Poles and the Chicago Bears should consider? Hit us up on Twitter or Facebook with your thoughts.