The Chicago Bears ought to focus on these safeties during the upcoming free agency period.
In 2023, the Chicago Bears' defense experienced both highs and lows. Following Head Coach Matt Eberflus taking over defensive play-calling responsibilities in Week 3 of the season, the defense showed promising signs of improvement. Chicago, alongside San Francisco, led the league with 22 interceptions, largely thanks to standout performances from linebackers Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards, who both contributed with four interceptions each. All-Pro cornerback Jaylon Johnson and rookie cornerback Tyrique Stevenson also added to the secondary's strength. While the secondary thrived, defensive end Montez Sweat provided the necessary spark and pressure for this talented unit.
However, one area of the defense fell short of expectations. Starting safeties Eddie Jackson and Jaquan Brisker faced challenges during the 2023 season. Brisker, in his second year as a starter, showed little improvement from the previous year. Although he may develop as the defense continues to grow, it's clear that his progress has been slow.
As for free safety Eddie Jackson, it appears to be time for the Bears to explore other options. Jackson struggled and often appeared lost during the season while also battling injuries. Despite his contract running through 2025, his hefty 2024 cap hit of $18 million makes it likely that Chicago will seek to free up that money for the upcoming season.
Fortunately, the 2024 free agency class presents opportunities for Chicago to address the safety position. Here are three safeties the Bears should consider targeting:
1. Antoine Winfield Jr. (25) - Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2023 Statistics: 6.0 Sacks, 6 Forced Fumbles, 3 Interceptions Antoine Winfield Jr. is undoubtedly the top free-agent safety available, making him an ideal addition for Chicago. However, acquiring a player of his caliber might require a significant financial commitment, possibly even a blank check to Tampa's star free safety. The Bears should monitor the situation closely, as Tampa Bay has the franchise tag as a potential option for retaining Winfield Jr.
2. Geno Stone (24) - Baltimore Ravens 2023 Statistics: 7.0 Interceptions, 9 Passes Defended, 68 Combined Tackles Geno Stone, a former seventh-round pick, had a breakout year with the Ravens in 2023. He offers a blend of strengths, including ball-hawking skills and physicality. Chicago could pair him with Jaquan Brisker to bolster the secondary, but Stone's market value may rise due to his standout season, and the Ravens might have competing priorities in the offseason.
3. Xavier McKinney (25) - New York Giants 2023 Statistics: 3 Interceptions, 116 Combined Tackles, 2 Fumble Recoveries, 11 Passes Defended Xavier McKinney stepped up for the Giants after the departure of Julian Love. He had a career-high in tackles and displayed versatility in various situations. Despite some reported issues with the Giants, McKinney's ability to avoid missed tackles and adaptability make him an attractive option to upgrade the safety position currently occupied by Eddie Jackson.
Additionally, Chicago may consider other potential fits at safety, such as Kyler Dugger (27) from the New England Patriots, Jeremy Chinn (25) from the Carolina Panthers, or Chauncey Gardener-Johnson (26) from the Detroit Lions. The importance of the safety position for Chicago's defense in 2024 remains to be seen, but the Bears have the financial flexibility and a pool of talented players to choose from.
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30 JANVIER | 1 ANSWERS The Chicago Bears ought to focus on these safeties during the upcoming free agency period. Will the Bears target WR in free agency? | ||
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| No | 0 | 0 % |
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