The Chicago Bears are heading into the offseason with some clear gaps to address, and the pass rush is right at the top of that list. While some might argue that safety and linebacker are more urgent needs, there's no denying that bolstering the pass rush could unlock a whole new level for their defense.
Last season, the Bears tried to make a splash at the trade deadline by targeting Jaelan Phillips from the Miami Dolphins. However, it was the Eagles who swooped in, securing Phillips for a third-round pick. But don't count the Bears out just yet-they might have another shot at him this spring.
According to a report from The Athletic's Zach Berman, the Eagles aren't planning to use the franchise or transition tag on any of their free agents, including Phillips. This opens the door for the Bears to make a competitive offer for the 26-year-old standout.
Phillips wasted no time making an impact in Philadelphia. Over eight regular-season games, he racked up seven QB hits, four tackles for loss, two sacks, and a forced fumble. With a Pro Football Focus grade of 77.1, he's certainly turned heads across the league.
As one of the top free-agent defenders available, Phillips is drawing plenty of interest. Spotrac estimates his market value at $17.3 million annually, placing him just behind some of the top EDGE rushers like Trey Hendrickson and Khalil Mack.
The Bears will face stiff competition in their pursuit of Phillips-or any top-tier pass rusher, for that matter. Every team is on the hunt for game-changers in the pass rush, and there just aren't enough to go around. How far the Bears are willing to go financially to land Phillips remains a key question.
Currently, Chicago's defensive line includes Montez Sweat, Austin Booker, Shemar Turner, and Dayo Odeyingbo. With Turner and Odeyingbo coming off injuries, their future impact is uncertain.
Booker, however, showed significant promise in the latter part of the season and will be an important piece moving forward. Despite this, the Bears managed only 35 sacks last season, ranking them in the bottom ten for both points and yards allowed.
For the Bears, investing in their pass rush is a strategic move. Whether they choose to do so through the draft or by signing a veteran like Phillips will be a pivotal decision for GM Ryan Poles. This offseason could be a defining moment for the Bears' defense.