Bears Ought to Consider Signing Recently Released 3-Time Pro-Bowl Defensive End.
The Chicago Bears managed to put significant pressure on Washington Commanders' quarterback Sam Howell in Week 5. Still, a single impressive outing doesn't define an entire season.
As the Bears gear up for their Sunday match against the Minnesota Vikings at home, their record stands at 1-4, and there's a palpable need to strengthen their edge rush. The team managed a mere 2 sacks in their opening four games. While the trade market is usually the go-to place for notable October acquisitions, a free agency opportunity has presented itself for Chicago in the defensive end department.
On Friday, October 13, the Denver Broncos let go of their pass-rusher Frank Clark after only five games. Now as a free agent, Clark has the liberty to sign with any team. With three Pro Bowl selections and two Super Bowl titles from his four-year tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs, a return to the Chiefs might be tempting for Clark. However, if he's in the mood for a fresh start, the Bears should certainly extend an offer.
Frank Clark: A Blend of Expertise, Achievement, and AffordabilityDespite playing only two games for the Broncos this season without a start or sack, Clark's credentials remain strong. In his eight-season NFL stint, Clark has had only two seasons with less than 5 sacks. His career highlights include 131 QB hits, 58.5 sacks, 14 forced fumbles, 13 pass breakups, and 2 interceptions, according to Pro Football Reference.
His release by Denver could mean a more budget-friendly deal for interested teams. After inking a one-year contract worth $5.45 million with the Broncos earlier this year, any potential suitors, including the Bears (with their $8.6 million cap space), might find Clark's acquisition a value addition.
Yannick Ngakoue's Sluggish Start with the Bears in 2023The Bears' most significant move to bolster their pass rush was the signing of Yannick Ngakoue, previously with the Indianapolis Colts. Ngakoue, who joined the Bears in August, signed a one-year deal valued at $10.5 million.
Ngakoue's prior seven-year career saw him consistently notch at least 8 sacks per season. However, his current run with the Bears yields just 4 QB hits and 2 sacks in five games, as per Pro Football Reference.
The Bears' defense has managed only 7 sacks this season, placing them 30th in the NFL, a position they share with the Houston Texans. Notably, five of these sacks were recorded against the Commanders on October 5, where the Bears also registered 11 quarterback hits.
Currently, no other player on the team has more than a single sack this season. Yet, DeMarcus Walker, another off-season acquisition, leads the team with 5 tackles-for-loss.
| POLL | ||
15 OCTOBRE | 31 ANSWERS Bears Ought to Consider Signing Recently Released 3-Time Pro-Bowl Defensive End. Should the Bears sign a D-End? | ||
| Yes | 23 | 74.2 % |
| No | 8 | 25.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
