Critics Point to Bears' Most Baffling Move of Free Agency
The Chicago Bears took an early plunge into the 2024 NFL free agency by securing free safety Kevin Byard on a two-year, $15 million contract, just days before the new league year commenced. However, despite the Bears' swift action, several ESPN analysts have labeled their move with Byard as one of the most "head-scratching" of free agency.
On February 15, the Bears released 30-year-old Eddie Jackson, creating approximately $12.56 million in salary-cap relief for the 2024 season and paving the way for a new starting free safety. Instead of waiting for the start of negotiations, the Bears hurried to secure Byard, a two-time All-Pro, to a deal that comes at a lower overall cost than Jackson's 2024 cap hit.
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler described the move as "impulsive," noting that despite Byard's impressive career, alternatives such as Justin Simmons and Quandre Diggs were available in the oversaturated safety market.
Fowler's sentiment was echoed by other ESPN experts, who criticized the Bears' decision to sign Byard, suggesting that younger and potentially better fits were overlooked.
Despite the criticism, Byard could offer an upgrade to the Bears' secondary. With a robust track record during his tenure with the Tennessee Titans, Byard's durability and productivity stand out, contrasting with Jackson's recent struggles.
While the Bears had numerous options in the safety market, including younger prospects like Geno Stone and Jordan Whitehead, Byard's experience and skill set may provide stability and leadership that the Bears seek.
However, even with Byard onboard, the Bears could still consider drafting a rookie safety in the 2024 NFL draft. Washington State's Jaden Hicks emerges as a potential mid-round option, offering versatility and developmental potential to complement Byard's presence in the secondary.
| POLL | ||
25 MARS | 131 ANSWERS Critics Point to Bears' Most Baffling Move of Free Agency Do you like the Kevin Byard signing? | ||
| Yes | 108 | 82.4 % |
| No | 23 | 17.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
