Report: Bears Lose Key Defender to $30.1 Million Contract
One former Bears starter has secured a new team. After two seasons in Chicago, experienced defensive tackle Justin Jones is set to join the Arizona Cardinals.
As reported by Peter Schrager of the NFL Network, Jones has inked a three-year contract worth $30.1 million, with $19.75 million guaranteed. This surpasses the two-year, $12 million deal he signed with the Bears in the 2022 offseason.
Jones, aged 27, proved his durability during his tenure in Chicago, starting all 17 games in both seasons. He also led the team in tackles-for-loss in both years, tallying 12 TFLs in 2022 and 10 in 2023.
With Jones now departing, the Bears face a significant gap in their defensive tackle position that needs urgent attention.
"You can never have enough pass rushers and never enough corners, so we're gonna just keep bringing them in," commented head coach Matt Eberflus in January during the team's season-ending press conference. "If we have something there available to us � we love the players currently on our roster for sure. They've done a really good job. The D-line really played well this year, for sure. We're always looking to enhance that."
However, with top DTs like Christian Wilkins and Justin Madubuike off the market, the Bears' options are limited. Arik Armstead, who is expected to be released by the San Francisco 49ers, could be a viable choice if healthy. Despite being sidelined for 12 games in 2023 due to foot and knee injuries, Armstead showcased effectiveness, securing 27 total tackles, 5.0 sacks, and 13 QB hits.
Another potential candidate is Cincinnati Bengals veteran D.J. Reader, who started 14 games last season and accumulated 34 total tackles, 1.0 sacks, 7 QB hits, and a fumble recovery.
| POLL | ||
12 MARS | 112 ANSWERS Report: Bears Lose Key Defender to $30.1 Million Contract Will the Bears make a splash in free agency on Day 2? | ||
| Yes | 47 | 42 % |
| No | 65 | 58 % |
| List of polls | ||
