GM Ryan Poles and the Chicago Bears coaching staff faced a dilemma when free agency began. Not only did they lack top 10 salary cap space, but they also weren’t a very good team. Such a combination makes it difficult to lure notable veteran players. That meant the organization would have to work extra hard to sell their case to certain names they might want. Names like Lucas Patrick.
Poles saw the traits he covets in the interior offensive lineman: intelligence, athleticism, and a mean streak. He was exactly the sort of person that could help change the identity of the Bears front five. There was one problem, though. Chicago wasn’t the only team interested in his services. Far from it, as it turns out. Patrick explained to Larry Mayer of Chicagobears.com how strong his market was before making his final decision.
“There were other others. There were about 10-12 teams that were interested, with differing opportunities and different offers. But this seemed like the perfect fit of both. Just to come here with Luke, the opportunity to help establish something here, not that there’s not been amazing history, but the recent past hasn’t been too exciting. I’m used to winning and that’s what I’m bringing. We’re going to win games.”
It seems the high opinion of Patrick was shared by several teams.
His impressive showing at center following the injury to Josh Myers likely did a lot for his stock heading into this offseason. Plenty of people in Green Bay weren’t happy to see him go. There is a strong likelihood the 28-year old could’ve joined a team in a better position to win in 2022. Yet he decided to take up the opportunity Chicago offered.
Offensive coordinator Luke Getsy was undoubtedly a major key to this deal. Lucas Patrick is a big admirer of the young coach. It also seems like he’s fascinated by the potential of Justin Fields at quarterback. Sometimes, relationships and intrigue can close the deal when money isn’t enough. Chicago landed Patrick on a modest two-year deal for $8 million.
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If he plays like he did last year, they have a more than the serviceable center.
