The Chicago Bears made two major cuts on Thursday, parting ways with OL Cody Whitehair and S Eddie Jackson. After the cuts, the Bears freed up $21 million in cap space and now have $70 million to work with this offseason.
With the additional cap space, a long-term contract for CB Jaylon Johnson should be in the cards. In addition, the Bears need an edge rusher opposite of Montez Sweat. Earlier this offseason, the Bears were one of two teams linked to long-time Minnesota Vikings pass rusher Danielle Hunter. According to ESPN's David Kaplan, he has confirmed the speculation and the Bears are indeed going to pursue Hunter in free agency.
Kaplan received word that the Bears were interested in Hunter ahead of the 2023 season before he ultimately signed a one-year deal to stay in Minnesota. The move resulted in Yannick Ngakoue signing with the Bears. Ngakoue will be a free agent after his 2023 season came to an abrupt end due to injury.
Hunter made the Pro Bowl in 2023 after a dominant campaign. The 29-year-old recorded 16.5 sacks and 23 tackles for loss, which led the NFL . In addition, he recorded 83 tackles, four forced fumbles, and 22 QB hits. Hunter was special and would be a phenomenal addition opposite of Montez Sweat.
The free agency tampering period does not begin until Mar. 13. However, there is reasonable expectation that the Bears will be fairly active at that time. Between the upcoming NFL Draft and free agency, the Bears should look fairly different in 2024 on paper.
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