As the Chicago Bears prepare for training camp in just a few weeks, there is still a possibility for general manager Ryan Poles to shore up the roster in a couple of areas.
While all of the spotlight is on rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and some of the other bigger names on this roster, the Bears still have some spots they could add depth and, potentially, a starter.
If Poles can make a few necessary moves in the coming weeks, the Bears would be totally set.
Bleacher Report's Matt Holder has an idea of what the Bears could do before camp to do just that, and based on his three priorities, I couldn't agree more.
Above all else, the Bears need to find a Montez Sweat compliment
The first priority mentioned is as obvious as they come. The Bears still don't have a fully-capable starter on the other side of Montez Sweat. DeMarcus Walker has the starting experience, but he didn't do enough to warrant his job being etched in stone after the 2023 season.
Fans are eagerly awaiting to see if rookie Austin Booker can climb the depth chart and become a staple in this defense, but it's rare to see a fifth-round pick do so. One name that's been floated around in trade possibilities, this offseason, is the Chargers' Joey Bosa. Maybe Poles takes a gamble on going after a guy like that, and if Bosa were to stay healthy, this line just got a world better.
Adding another interior lineman who can rush the passer should be a priority
Next to Andrew Billings and going into his second-year is Gervon Dexter, whom the Bears are hoping to see take a huge step. Dexter recently set himself some lofty goals for the 2024 season, and if he were to hit them all, then this item needs no covering and the Bears would be set.
But, for now, Chicago's defensive line appears to be in need of another interior pass rusher to add competition and depth. Whether it's dipping into what's left of the free agent pool or making a sudden, splash trade, Poles has options.
The Bears could also use some additional depth at center
Holder mentioned cornerback as another spot to add talent, but most are on board with Tyrique Stevenson taking a leap in his second year and the depth is fine, for now. Terell Smith showed some things as a rookie last year, too.
What the Bears should really go out and do is sign someone like former Dolphins center Connor Williams, who is still available. Sure, he is coming off an ACL tear and is still recovering. But, Williams is one of the best centers in football and, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter, he's been talking with prospective teams now and talks are gaining steam.
If the Bears wanted to take a shot on a center in the thick of his prime, at 27 years old, it could prove to be one of their best offseason moves. When Williams is back to full strength, he could be exponentially better than anyone currently on this roster.