How Saquon Barkley's Tagging Helps the Bears Strategize for Free Agency
As the legal tampering period for free agency approaches, the Chicago Bears have been meticulously planning their offseason strategy. With almost $100 million in salary cap space, the Bears have several directions to choose from, but their focus was expected to be on the offensive line. However, their path became clearer after the franchise tag deadline passed.
The Kansas City Chiefs' decision not to tag left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. made him one of the most-coveted players in the market, giving the Bears an unexpected opportunity. On the other hand, the New York Giants' decision to place the non-exclusive franchise tag on Saquon Barkley eliminated the temptation of acquiring the star running back.
This move pushed David Montgomery up the free-agent running back pecking order, and a new deal with the Bears would have to make sense financially. With Khalil Herbert on the roster and a deep rookie running back class in the draft, the Bears could let Montgomery walk if his asking price is too high.
The Bears' critical needs include two top-level offensive linemen, an off-ball linebacker, a veteran edge rusher, and preferably a three-technique. With Brown Jr. on the market and the Saquon Barkley option off the table, the Bears can now confidently pursue their free agency targets.
| POLL | ||
8 MARS | 33 ANSWERS How Saquon Barkley's Tagging Helps the Bears Strategize for Free Agency Who should be the Bears' starting running back next season? | ||
| David Montgomery | 17 | 51.5 % |
| Khalil Herbert | 10 | 30.3 % |
| Free agent addition | 6 | 18.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
