Two dream free agent signings the Chicago Bears must pursue
Bryce Huff, EDGE - New York Jets
Like at the wide receiver position, outside of Montez Sweat, the Bears don't have a viable edge-rushing option. Yannick Ngakoue is an imminent departure, while Demarcus Walker and Rasheem Green have proven they are nothing more than solid rotational pieces. Bryce Huff could be that starting-caliber edge opposite of Sweat.
In a contract season, Huff couldn't have timed his career-best year more perfectly. The former undrafted free agent notched ten sacks, 21 QB hits, and 33 pressures on 42% of the team's defensive snaps. All career highs.
The 25-year-old is the definition of a pass-rush specialist. According to PFF, In his last two seasons, Huff has recorded a ridiculous 23.1% pass-rush win rate and 90.1 pass-rush win rate. The downside, however, is his run defense. PFF gave Huff an appalling 45.2 run-defense grade in the same period, and it's the reason why he never got more playing time with the Jets.
Luckily for Huff, the ability to rush the passer and create pressure is the most valuable facet of an edge rusher's game.
With most of the attention going towards stopping Montez Sweat, there could be a lot of mismatches and opportunities for sacks on the field. Huff could take advantage of it and, even on limited snaps, top the career highs he set last season.
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Again, it's important to consider his limitations as a run defender. If the Bears do acquire Bryce Huff it'll be important that they also get an edge rusher who is a more apt run-defender, whether it's in the draft or in free agency. On the plus side, the Bears would have a great trio of edge rushers. One all-around dominant player in Montez Sweat, one dominant pass rusher in Bryce Huff, and a do-it-all rookie or second free agent signing.