The Chicago Bears are heading into their second offseason with Chuck Pagano as their defensive coordinator. By the time the 2020 season kicks off, Chicago’s defense could look a bit different.
More specifically, the Bears could see a new face or two at inside linebacker next season. In about a month, free agency is set to begin for the NFL.
Once free agency begins, the Bears are in danger of losing both Danny Trevathan and Nick Kwiatkoski. Trevathan started in nine games for Chicago in 2019 while Kwiatkoski started in eight games.
Of course, Roquan Smith is still manning one of the inside linebacker spots on the defense. But Chicago could need to find someone to pair with him on the inside.
Before free agency gets underway, the Bears currently have $26.3 million in cap space, according to Spotrac. On the other hand, Chicago won’t make a selection in the 2020 NFL Draft until the 43rd overall pick. With that in mind, here are three potential linebacker targets for the Bears this offseason.