These are the two prime Trade Prospects for the Bears Prior to the 2023 Training Camp
Coming off a lackluster 3-14 season in 2022, the Chicago Bears have a lot to figure out in the big picture. Their recent strategy appears focused on amassing future assets, highlighted by their savvy move of trading down from the No. 1 spot in this year's NFL draft.
As we count down to training camp's opening whistle, Chicago might not be primed for major free-agent splurges but could very well explore trade opportunities. The goal? Bolster their foundation for the future.
Let's zoom in on a few Bears personnel who could be on the trade radar.
Velus Jones Jr. - Wide ReceiverJones was the Bears' third-round choice in the 2022 NFL draft. His rookie campaign, however, was a bit underwhelming, racking up just 210 yards (107 receiving, 103 rushing) and a pair of touchdowns over 12 games.
Fast-forward to today, Chicago's receiving room has grown more crowded. After securing DJ Moore from the Panthers and picking Tyler Scott in this year's draft, Jones might find it hard to grab significant field time.
While Jones' upside can't be ignored, he's already 26 - slightly older than most on the depth chart. As such, Chicago might ponder swapping him for a future draft selection, particularly if his training camp showing isn't enough to lock down a spot on the final roster.
Cody Whitehair - Offensive LinemanCody Whitehair is set to head into training camp as the favorite for the Bears' starting center role. The 30-year-old, however, also carries the team's fourth-largest cap hit ($14.1 million) heading into the 2023 season. While $8.3 million of this is dead cap, Chicago could gain some financial breathing room by dealing Whitehair.
The monetary implications grow even larger looking ahead to 2024 when Whitehair's cap hit peaks at $13.25 million, with a relatively smaller portion of it ($4.1 million) being dead cap. Is it worth the Bears' investment?
Despite a solid record of 107 starts over his seven-year tenure in Chicago, the Bears also have Lucas Patrick in their ranks. Patrick, now 29, managed only seven appearances (with five starts) during his inaugural year with the Bears.
If Patrick can stave off injuries and prove his mettle as a dependable starting center, Chicago might fare better trading Whitehair. It would not only save them some cap space but also keep the offensive line's performance at par.
