Whenever a new coaching staff comes in, the smart money to bet is on those coaches urging the front office to pursue certain players in free agency. Players they know and believe they can make good use of. One of the first things Matt Eberflus did upon taking over the Chicago Bears in 2022 was bring in veteran defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad. There is every reason to think that Ben Johnson and his new staff will do the same. One man who has plenty of connections to the upcoming free agent class is defensive coordinator Dennis Allen.
Chicago needs defensive line help going into next year. While free agency isn’t likely where they’re going to find their next stud, it could be where they seek some much-needed depth. One name Allen is certain to push for is Marcus Davenport. The 28-year-old was a 1st round pick by the New Orleans Saints in 2018. Over his first four years, during which Allen was the defensive coordinator, he had 21.5 sacks in 48 games. That includes nine in just 11 games in 2021.
Unfortunately, his effectiveness dipped after leaving the team in 2023, much of it due to injury setbacks.
The Chicago Bears have every reason to take a flier on Davenport.
His health issues mean he will likely come cheap. He is still on the younger side, which means he has a chance to rebound. Allen knows him better than anybody. The fact he won’t be a starter means the wear and tear on his body won’t be as severe. If the Chicago Bears can get him even remotely close to his 2021 form, their defensive line will be much more formidable than last season. Davenport isn’t the only one, too. Chase Young is another name Allen worked with this past season. He has familiarity with Montez Sweat as well from their time in Washington together. Presuming the Bears focus their big money on the offensive line, this would be a fiscally responsible move to continue helping their defense.
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