4 Potential Free-Agent Defensive Ends for the Chicago Bears…
The Bears are gearing up for training camp, with rookies reporting next week and veterans joining on July 19. The first official practice is set for July 20, marking the countdown to the much-anticipated 2024 NFL season.
While the Bears’ roster appears largely set, general manager Ryan Poles emphasizes that the team is always evolving. Despite drafting Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze, trading for Keenan Allen, and signing D’Andre Swift, the team is never complete.
The start of training camp often brings opportunities to make final roster tweaks. Though many top free agents signed in March, experienced veterans are often available in late July.
One area the Bears might bolster is defensive end. With Montez Sweat and DeMarcus Walker as the projected starters, and Dominique Robinson, Khalid Kareem, Jacob Martin, and Austin Booker competing for backup roles, depth remains a concern.
Last year, the Bears signed Yannick Ngakoue to a one-year deal in August, and they might consider a similar move this year, likely on a cost-effective contract.
Here are four potential edge rushers the Bears could target:
Yannick Ngakoue
Yannick Ngakoue, who played for the Bears last season, remains a free agent. The 29-year-old has eight years of NFL experience and consistently recorded at least eight sacks per season until last year, when he managed only four due to a broken ankle. Now recovered, as indicated by his social media posts, Ngakoue could be a valuable addition.
Emmanuel Ogbah
Emmanuel Ogbah, an eight-year veteran, is available after being released by the Miami Dolphins in February. Ogbah has 42.5 career sacks and had 5.5 last season. Despite missing half of the previous season due to a triceps injury, he is healthy and could provide experience and depth at age 30.
Jerry Hughes
Jerry Hughes, a seasoned veteran at 35, will be 36 by Week 1. With 70 sacks over 218 games, Hughes brings a wealth of experience. He previously worked with Bears defensive coordinator Eric Washington in Buffalo and played for the Bills from 2013-21. Last season with the Houston Texans, he transitioned to a reserve role, recording three sacks in 17 games.
Shaq Lawson
Shaq Lawson, who also has ties to Washington from his time in Buffalo, is another option. At 30, Lawson has 26 sacks in 109 games. Though he hasn’t fully lived up to his first-round draft pick status, he could be an effective rotational player. Last season, he appeared in 16 games for Buffalo, starting only one and recording just one sack.
These potential signings could provide the Bears with the necessary depth and experience at defensive end as they approach the 2024 season.
