We're at the point in the season where Chicago Bears fans are seriously looking forward.
The 2024 offseason is going to be a pivotal one for general manager Ryan Poles, and plenty of big decisions await him.
Right now, we can probably predict several players who will not end up returning in 2024. But, how do the Bears replace them? Let's take a look at five, in particular, and who the Bears could find to replace each one of them in the 2024 NFL Draft.
1. Justin Jones, Defensive Tackle
First up is veteran defensive tackle Justin Jones, who should ultimately lose his job this season to Gervon Dexter or Zacch Pickens. But, the veteran continues to see himself in the starting four up front. Jones has been arguably the Bears' worst starter up front all season long, and has struggled in both run and pass situations.
Possible Replacement: Leonard Taylor III, Miami Hurricanes
Bears fans would be elated to see the team select Leonard Taylor on Day 2 of the draft next spring. He stands 6-foot-3, weighing 305 pounds but is an absolute freak athlete at his size. His explosiveness of the line of scrimmage and ability to beat offensive linemen with his speed is impressive. But, he also possesses great hand usage.
Taylor would give the Bears one heck of a starting candidate on the interior and could breed some fierce competition during camp next season.