The Chicago Bears entered the 2025 offseason with a clear mission: bolster the trenches. Their primary focus was the offensive line, bringing in talents like Joe Thuney, Jonah Jackson, and Drew Dalman.
These moves paid off, but the defensive line investments didn’t pan out as hoped. Grady Jarrett was decent at defensive tackle, but the real disappointment was defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo.
The Bears needed a pass rusher to complement Montez Sweat, and Odeyingbo, who had shown promise with the Colts, seemed like a good fit. However, concerns about his explosiveness and reliance on DeForest Buckner in Indianapolis made some wary. Those concerns were validated as he tallied just one sack in eight games before an Achilles injury sidelined him.
Now, the Bears find themselves back at square one, searching for defensive line solutions. As they eye free agency, here are some names that might carry similar risks to Odeyingbo.
LT Cam Robinson
Projected at $13 million annually, Robinson is a name on the Bears' radar for left tackle. With Ozzy Trapilo not ready for the season start and Braxton Jones hitting free agency, they need a reliable option.
Robinson, with 114 career starts, seems appealing at 31. However, experience doesn’t always mean reliability.
Last season with the Browns, he allowed 39 pressures and eight sacks in 12 games. His run-blocking wasn’t stellar either, making his price tag questionable.
EDGE Joey Bosa
Bosa, projected at $13.7 million, is a classic case of a big name commanding big money despite being past his prime. Once a star with the Chargers, injuries have plagued him, and he hasn’t played a full season since 2021.
His last double-digit sack season was also in 2021. While the Bears need pass rush help, investing in a player on the decline is risky.
DT John Franklin-Myers
Projected at $7.87 million, Franklin-Myers has proven himself as a formidable interior rusher with 14 sacks over two seasons in Denver. Interior pressure is highly valued, and the free agent and draft classes are thin this year.
This means Franklin-Myers will likely command much more than projected. The Bears, constrained by the Odeyingbo contract, might struggle to compete in this hot market.
LB Demario Davis
With a projected $9.47 million contract, Davis could fill a potential void if the Bears cut Tremaine Edmunds for cap space. Davis has a history with Dennis Allen from their time in New Orleans.
Despite his productivity, at 37, paying him over $9 million is risky. The Bears need to consider getting younger at linebacker, as Davis’ future effectiveness is uncertain.
The Bears face tough decisions as they navigate free agency, balancing immediate needs with long-term strategy.