The Chicago Bears, after making significant defensive strides in the 2023 season, are now focused on fortifying their roster further, particularly by securing a key element they consider the “missing piece” – a 3-technique defensive tackle. The team’s insider, Courtney Cronin, in collaboration with ESPN colleagues, highlighted the 3-tech position as an “under-the-radar priority” for the 2024 season. While acknowledging the promising development of rookie Gervon Dexter, Cronin emphasized the need for a disruptive player at the position.
In a breakdown of potential targets for the Bears, Cronin identified high-caliber options in free agency, including Kansas City’s Chris Jones, Miami’s Christian Wilkins, and Baltimore’s Justin Madubuike. However, Jones, an accomplished five-time All-Pro, is approaching 30, and Baltimore is unlikely to release the 26-year-old Madubuike after an impressive season.
The most feasible option, according to Cronin, might be Christian Wilkins. The 2019 first-round pick concluded his fifth season with notable achievements, recording nine sacks, 10 tackles for loss, and 23 quarterback hits. Despite the Miami Dolphins’ desire to retain Wilkins, financial constraints and a previous failed contract negotiation may lead to his availability in free agency.
The Bears, however, face budgetary challenges. With approximately $46.87 million in projected cap space for 2024, they must allocate funds for retaining star cornerback Jaylon Johnson and addressing other positional needs like wide receivers, center, and offensive tackle. The question arises whether they would be willing to invest top dollar, potentially exceeding $20 million annually, for a player of Wilkins’ caliber.
Cronin, a well-informed insider, acknowledges the Bears’ potential interest in a veteran 3-technique defensive tackle for 2024. Despite this, there are reasons to believe the team might not make a substantial financial commitment to the position. The Bears have existing interior defensive linemen, including 2023 rookies Gervon Dexter Sr. and Zacch Pickens, along with Andrew Billings, who earned a two-year, $8 million extension during the 2023 season.
The challenge for the Bears is to replace Justin Jones, unless they opt to re-sign him before free agency. Dexter could step into Jones’ role, or the team may consider adding a veteran through free agency or the draft. Ultimately, the Bears must strike a balance between addressing their defensive needs and managing budgetary constraints to solidify their roster for the upcoming season.
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