If there is one thing we know about new a coaching staff coming in, it is that suddenly, not everybody on the roster should be considered safe. Not only will certain guys be cut or allowed to leave in free agency, but there is a possibility that one or two might be traded. It happened in 2022 when Matt Eberflus arrived. There is no reason to think the arrival of Ben Johnson won’t lead to a shakeup of some kind.
While it won’t be a monumental teardown like three years ago, the Chicago Bears could still end up shipping out some notable names. Here are three who stand out.
Ben Johnson has some interesting decisions to make.
D’Andre Swift
This might seem crazy, considering Swift just got done posting over 1300 total yards this past season. His explosion and versatility are evident, even if he might not be the workhorse type of back teams prefer. Keep in mind Johnson has worked with Swift before in Detroit. The Lions traded the running back to Philadelphia after the 2022 season. That should give you an idea of what the new head coach thinks of Swift. With this upcoming draft being stacked with running backs, the Bears may elect to ship him out and remake the position.
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DeMarcus Walker
Walker has been a reliable presence on the defensive line for the past two years and a locker room leader. That said, his tweener style may not sit well with new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. He was never known for employing such players during his time in New Orleans. It wouldn’t be surprising if he prefers to go in a different direction. Walker likely wouldn’t fetch much, but there may be a team willing to part with a late round pick for a proven veteran who can give their pass rush some versatility.
Jack Sanborn
He’s been one of the cooler stories of the past few years. The kid from Lake Zurich found his way to his hometown team and has become a reliable player. Unfortunately, his athletic limitation may not sit well with Ben Johnson and his staff. Allen has long preferred athletic linebackers in his defense. Sanborn is more of a downhill, thumping type who works best against the run. He will fit somewhere, but maybe not in Chicago.
