Cole adds some much-needed depth to a Bears' linebacker corps that has undergone a complete overhaul this offseason.
"The early bird gets the worm," as the old saying goes. Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles was back at work early Thursday morning, reportedly signing free-agent linebacker Dylan Cole to a one-year deal.
Cole adds some much-needed depth to a linebacker corps that has undergone a complete revamp this offseason. The 28-year-old joins Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards as the newly acquired linebackers this offseason.
Additionally, Cole possesses the versatility to serve as a key special teams contributor. With a 6-foot-1, 240-pound frame, the Missouri State product is extremely athletic and instinctive.
Cole was an undrafted free agent in 2017 before signing with the Houston Texans, where he spent four seasons (2017-2020).
After signing with the Titans' practice squad in 2021, he had a bit of a tumultuous start with the organization. Cole was released two weeks later only to re-sign two weeks after that. Then in Week 10, he was elevated to the active roster and has stuck around ever since.
Across six NFL seasons, Cole has played in 61 games (nine starts), logging 147 tackles (97 solo), 10 tackles for loss, and two sacks. He also has one forced fumble and two interceptions on his resume.
As ESPN's Courtney Cronin points out, Cole appears to be a replacement for linebacker Matt Adams, who departed the Bears for the Cleveland Browns this offseason.
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