NFL free agency: Chicago Bears receive top grade for offseason moves
The Chicago Bears improved their roster in a big way during free agency, prioritizing the trenches on offense and defense while also adding some depth at skill positions.
Chicago overhauled the entire interior offensive line with the trades for guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, as well as center Drew Dalman, where they made it clear protecting Caleb Williams is a focal point. But they also made sure shored up the defensive line with the additions of Grady Jarrett and Dayo Odeyingbo. The Bears also signed tight end Durham Smythe and wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus.
USA Today's Nate Davis released his free agency grades for every team, and the Bears tied with the Baltimore Ravens for the highest grade with an "A."
Though it might not have been readily apparent a year ago, GM Ryan Poles and the organization didn’t put enough around QB Caleb Williams to precipitate a truly successful rookie campaign. The hiring of rookie HC Ben Johnson was the first step toward remedying that, and then Poles began proactively progressing toward what Johnson enjoyed in Detroit – namely fortifying the offensive line by trading for Gs Joe Thuney, an All-Pro, and Jonah Jackson before signing highly regarded Dalman (3 years, $42 million). Poles didn’t stop there, leveling up the other line with two-time Pro Bowler Jarrett (3 years, $42.8 million) and an up-and-coming pass rusher, Dayo Odeyingbo (3 years, $48 million) to play opposite Montez Sweat. Williams will get additional help from the draft, but the supporting cast should already be at a point where there are no more excuses for the young passer … or Poles, for that matter.
With the arrival of new head coach Ben Johnson, Chicago is already operating differently than in the past, and people are taking notice. It's clear Johnson has an influence on personnel moves with the focus on building up the offensive line and landing some players that he previously coached, with Jackson and Smythe.
Once again, the Bears are one step closer to repeating as "offseason champions" for a third straight year. Hopefully this is the year it finally translates on the field.
This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: NFL free agency: Chicago Bears receive top grade for offseason moves
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