Probably the biggest get for the Chicago Bears this 2020 offseason was edge rusher Robert Quinn. While Nick Foles may end up being the most important, Quinn is the most talented. The 30-year old is coming off one of his best seasons in the NFL. A campaign of 11.5 sacks with the Dallas Cowboys. He will replace Leonard Floyd on the opposite edge across from Khalil Mack. A massive upgrade on paper.
Shortly after it happened though, word came out it was almost very different. Apparently Quinn’s list narrowed down to two teams. The Bears and the Atlanta Falcons. The latter were also hunting pass rush help. It was a spot that made sense for Quinn. They ran a 4-3 defense where he could play defensive end while also being close to his home state of South Carolina. They have a good QB in Matt Ryan.
Yet in the end, he decided on Chicago. The Falcons grabbed Dante Fowler instead. So why exactly did Quinn make the choice he did? He explained himself on the Getcha Popcorn Ready podcast with Terrell Owens and Matthew Hatchette.
“They already have the talent there. They already have the pieces there. I’m just trying to bring the icing on the cake. I believe in my talents. I know what I bring to the table and again I know what they had there already…I think with that formula we can do something special this year.”
Robert Quinn smelled a shot to get his money and still dominate
That’s the thing. Smart free agents aren’t just looking for the most money. They’re looking for good money but also a place they can thrive. Atlanta has its benefits. Specifically the dome atmosphere with that fast field turf. However, they don’t necessarily have the rich talent on defense. They ranked 20th last season and haven’t fielded a top unit yet under Dan Quinn.
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Getting a chance to play with Khalil Mack and Akiem Hicks in a city that embraces defense? All while getting $30 million in guaranteed money? A pretty easy decision from his perspective. He isn’t wrong in his assessment either.
If good health prevails this year, the 2020 Bears defense does have a chance to be special. Even in the rich legacy that comes before them. It will be even better if the offense can carry some of its own weight.