Akiem Hicks (27-years old)
Something people have learned about Pace is he’s never going to be that guy who jumps the gun on a new contract. Alshon Jeffery proves that much. A lot of voices are already calling for him to extend defensive end Akiem Hicks, who is entering the final year of his two-year deal he signed last season. He’s coming off a career-high seven sacks and was the best, most reliable player on defense. By not extending him the Bears are basically telling him to do it again. If he does, it’s almost certain they’ll try to give him that big extension he covets. They better be careful though. Hicks has already shown he doesn’t mind playing for new teams.
