5 Bears veterans who have played their final down for Chicago

Chicago will be making some upgrades at a few key positions this offseason.

Chicago Bears, Eddie Jackson
Chicago Bears, Eddie Jackson | Jason Miller/GettyImages
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This offseason, the Chicago Bears are facing some massive decisions.

The biggest one, of course, centers around Justin Fields, Caleb Williams and the no. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

But, this roster also has several players either coming up on free agency or who hold a contract that's worth the team shedding.

Without touching on the quarterback position, the following five players have likely played their final down with the Bears and won't be around for the 2024 season.

1. Lucas Patrick, IOL

One of the biggest pain points for the Bears is on the interior of their offensive line. They may or may not keep Braxton Jones starting at left tackle, but one thing is for certain: Chicago is going to have a new starting center in 2024.

Cutting Cody Whitehair and allowing Lucas Patrick to leave via free agency are both moves the Bears will undoubtedly make. Saving money with Whitehair's release makes too much sense, and Patrick was inconsistent during his two years with the Bears. Not to mention, injuries were an issue as well.

Patrick came over as someone familiar with Luke Getsy, and now that Getsy is gone and Patrick is a free agent, there is no sense in re-signing a veteran guard who will be 31 in July.

Establishing depth behind Teven Jenkins and Nate Davis, along with a starting center, should be a top priority this offseason.