The Chicago Bears are gearing up for a crucial offseason, with a clear focus on strengthening their defensive front. Whether through free agency, trades, or the draft, the Bears are leaving no stone unturned. A new contender has emerged as a potential asset: Mike Danna, recently released by the Kansas City Chiefs.
Danna’s journey with the Chiefs began when he was drafted from the University of Michigan in 2020. Though initially a part-time player, he seized his chance in his fourth season, starting 16 games and racking up 6.5 sacks and 50 tackles. His standout performance was instrumental in the Chiefs' Super Bowl LVIII victory, earning him a three-year, $24 million contract in 2024.
However, Danna's production dipped, with just one sack last season and under 400 snaps in 15 games. The Chiefs, facing salary cap constraints and bolstered by rookie Ashton Gillotte, opted to release Danna, who carried an $11 million cap hit for 2026.
Enter the Chicago Bears, led by GM Ryan Poles, who has a history with Danna from their overlapping tenure in Kansas City. While Poles wasn’t directly involved in scouting at the time, his familiarity with Danna could make the defensive end an intriguing option for the Bears.
Danna’s experience, including two Super Bowl rings and participation in 16 playoff games, adds valuable depth and leadership to a young Bears squad. Though he may not command top dollar on the market, his proven capability in a starting role makes him a potential asset as the Bears look to rise in the league.