Chicago Bears trade hopes were pretty much dashed over the past week. While other teams were making a dizzying array of major and minor moves, GM Ryan Pace chose to sit back and quietly observe. It isn’t a huge surprise. Most of his moves are saved for the draft. He only makes moves this time of year or during a season when he feels there is an absolute pressing need. See Khalil Mack in 2018 and Dontrelle Inman in 2017.
The Bears frankly don’t have any pressing needs from a starter perspective. They’re strong across the board. Most of the concerns are regarding their depth. Offensive tackle, tight end, and outside linebacker appear to have notable issues with the reserves. Still, Pace is not one to jump at shadows. He’ll let the season start to play out and plan accordingly from there. That said, it doesn’t mean he won’t be monitoring situations across the league.
Depending on how they play out, the Bears may be tempted to make a move for certain names that might further their cause. Who might that be? Here are four who stand out for different reasons and why they may be worth pursuing.
Chicago Bears trade targets to keep in mind
Evan Engram (TE)
This is the hot name in social media circles, fueled by an article in the New York Daily News that speculated via prediction that the New York Giants may look to move Evan Engram. Why? He’s apparently not a great fit for head coach Pat Shurmur’s offense. A system that requires more blocking from that position. On the flip side, Engram’s unique athleticism and pass catching ability could make him the ideal U tight end in the Bears’ offense.
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This is the position currently occupied by Trey Burton. His health status since joining Chicago last season has grown more and more concerning. First, it was a groin problem. Then it was a sports hernia. Now it’s another groin problem. The Bears are willing to stay patient with him, but if these health issues persist they may be inclined to seek another option. Remember Giants GM Dave Gettleman traded Odell Beckham Jr. So it’s not like Engram would be out of the question.
D.J. Humphries (OT)
The Arizona Cardinals seem to have run out of patience with the former 1st round pick. D.J. Humphries always showed flashes of his potential as a left tackle but never evolved into that franchise protector some envisioned. With an entirely new coaching staff in place, it’s fair to wonder if his days are numbered. If so, the Bears would have good reason to consider going after him.
For one, he’s an experienced starter in the league who is still just 25-years old. Having him as a swing backup to Charles Leno and Bobby Massie would be ten times better than Cornelius Lucas or Rashaad Coward. Also there’s the prospect of putting him under the guidance of Harry Hiestand, one of the best offensive line coaches in football. He’s worked miracles with less talented blockers in the past.
Whitney Mercilus (OLB)
One thing about the Houston Texans is they seem to be open for business on just about everything. Bill O’Brien is running the show and he’s made it clear trades of any kind are on the table. He already dealt Jadeveon Clowney. So one can imagine the 30-year old Whitney Mercilus is far from off-limits as well. The Bears have question marks regarding their depth at outside linebacker. Something he could solve instantly.
Mercilus had 12 sacks in 2015 and 7.5 the next year. However, his playing time was reduced as Clowney gained more within the Texans defense. He had four sacks last year and 43 total pressures. The best part is he’s a former member of the University of Illinois. So it would almost be a homecoming for him in joining the Bears.
Artie Burns (CB)
A tremendous athlete coming out of college, much was expected from Artie Burns with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Though he has his strong moments, his inconsistency has been a constant source of frustration for his team. Last year was his worst as a pro and it’s hard not to wonder if being relegated to a part-time role affected his confidence. It’s starting to look like a fresh start may be needed for him.
Chuck Pagano is a renowned defensive back specialist. He also has a deep background from the University of Miami where Burns went to school. So those are two major positives worth considering about this deal. Another is that the cornerback is still only 24-years old. Fairly young for a guy entering the fourth season of his career. The Bears could have the ideal environment to finally unlock his full potential.
