Usually, between the Senior Bowl and scouting combine, NFL rumors start flying. GMs, coaches, and scouts gather for big events and inevitably begin chatting. This is often how potential deals get started via free agency or trades. Teams also learn which players may end up being available. Despite a late start to the offseason due to their overhaul at the top, it seems the Chicago Bears are off and running.
People want to know what GM Ryan Poles may have planned. Thus far, most of his comments regarding the roster have centered on the offensive line. It is evident changes are coming there. However, that won’t be the only area. According to a source, it seems the Bears are aiming for a significant shift at wide receiver as well.
Let’s start with the in-house names.
The belief is Allen Robinson has played his final down in a Bears uniform. There will be no franchise tag or attempts to engage the 28-year old on a new contract. Poles intends to let him hit the open market. The reasons believed for this decision center around two things. Robinson’s questionable effort most of this past season and his overall lack of explosiveness. Neither fit into the vision the new GM has for this team.
Jakeem Grant is a different story. The Bears are pretty interested in bringing the Pro Bowl return man back, seeing him as a great weapon both on special teams and offense, thanks to his speed and after-the-catch ability. Also, don’t expect Tarik Cohen to get cut or traded. There is a belief inside the building that if he can return healthy this season, he’ll become a major contributor in Luke Getsy’s new offense.
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Chicago Bears also hoping to strike on the veteran market
While Poles isn’t going to make any sort of blockbuster move, it is believed he is hoping to score one or two quality names this March. One free agent said to have his attention is Christian Kirk. The former 2nd round pick comes off the best season of his career in 2021, going for 982 yards and five touchdowns. Arizona isn’t in a good position to retain him, and he is likely seeking a new home that will feature him more often. His big-play ability is hard to ignore.
There is also a strong feeling Poles will explore the potential wide receiver trade market as well. As stated earlier, the price will be central to this idea. With only five draft picks available, the Chicago Bears aren’t going to torpedo the rest of their draft for one player. Calvin Ridley is the big name everybody is talking about. The same goes for Amari Cooper. Both would be expensive, though. A couple of names that might be more in the Bears’ zone are Jarvin Landry in Cleveland, Mecole Hardman in Kansas City, and Marvin Jones in Jacksonville.
Something to monitor over the next two months.
Poles plans to do everything he can to help Justin Fields from the sound of things. That means weapons and protection. This would suggest that most available resources for 2022 will be devoted to the offense. Matt Eberflus may have to make do with what he already has on the defensive side. A challenge he has passed more than once before.
