Blake Martinez is set to hit free agency this offseason and the Green Bay Packers are not currently expected to re-sign him. If that does end up being the case, he will have a chance to choose where to play the next chapter of his career. One potential landing spot for him could be the Chicago Bears.
CBS Sports took a look at potential targets for the Bears in free agency and Martinez came up as one of their top options.
Chicago could end up losing linebacker Nick Kwiatkoski to free agency. If they do, Martinez would become especially intriguing. He would actually be an upgrade for the Bears.
Last season with the Packers, Martinez put up monstrous numbers. He racked up 155 tackles, three sacks, one forced fumble, one interception, and two defended passes. Those numbers speak for themselves.
At this point in time, the Bears are projected to have around $16 million in cap space. Martinez has reportedly been searching for around $10 million per years. Chicago could afford him, but it would be tight.
Martinez is 26 years old entering free agency this offseason. He would be a long-term leader for the middle of the Bears’ defense. A four-year deal would make a lot of sense for both parties.
There are some concerns about Martinez. Green Bay is open to letting him walk because he lacks the athleticism to play sideline-to-sideline.
Despite the concerns, the Bears should absolutely take a long look at him in free agency. If they are able to sign Martinez, their defense will improve. Martinez would be joining an elite defense on a team that he could get revenge on the Packers for letting him walk.
Expect to hear quite a few rumors about Martinez this offseason and don’t be surprised if Chicago ends up being one of his potential suitors.
