Bears Should Keep an Eye on These Four Free Agents in Super Bowl LIX

Bears Should Keep an Eye on These Four Free Agents in Super Bowl LIX

Super Bowl LIX is fast approaching, and while the game will undoubtedly captivate millions of fans around the world, the real work for NFL teams like the Chicago Bears will come after the final whistle. As the NFL’s biggest game of the year concludes, all eyes will turn toward the offseason, with free agency providing an opportunity for teams to bolster their rosters for future success. For the Bears, who are looking to rebuild and position themselves for success in the NFC, keeping an eye on key free agents in Super Bowl LIX is a critical task.

This year’s Super Bowl LIX will feature some outstanding talent, and for Chicago, evaluating potential free agents on both teams—the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles—is an essential part of the team’s long-term strategy. From improving their offensive line to shoring up their defense, the Bears should be looking at players who can make an immediate impact. In particular, Chicago will be paying close attention to these four players in the Super Bowl, as they may fit the team’s needs for the upcoming season.

1. Javon Hargrave (Defensive Tackle, Philadelphia Eagles)

The Philadelphia Eagles have an imposing defensive front, and one of the standout players from that unit is Javon Hargrave, their veteran defensive tackle. Known for his disruptive ability on the interior of the defensive line, Hargrave has been a key part of the Eagles’ dominant defense. Over the course of his career, Hargrave has proven to be a force against both the run and the pass, using his strength, quickness, and football IQ to create havoc for opposing offenses.

Hargrave’s ability to collapse the pocket and pressure the quarterback from the interior is something that could immediately help the Bears’ defense. Chicago has struggled to generate consistent pressure on the quarterback in recent years, and while players like Roquan Smith and Robert Quinn have played key roles, the addition of a player like Hargrave would give them a physical presence in the middle of the defensive line.

Hargrave’s contract with the Eagles is set to expire after this season, making him a prime free agent target for the Bears. If the Bears are serious about building a defense that can compete at a high level, adding a player like Hargrave would help anchor their defensive line and solidify their front seven.

Why Hargrave is a Good Fit for the Bears:

• Interior pass rush: The Bears’ defensive line needs a player who can create pressure from the inside. Hargrave’s ability to disrupt passing lanes and collapse the pocket would be invaluable.
• Run-stuffing ability: Hargrave is stout against the run, which would allow the Bears to improve their defensive front and stop the opposing offense from gaining yards on the ground.
• Leadership: With years of experience playing at a high level, Hargrave would bring a veteran presence to a young and developing Bears defensive line.

2. James Bradberry (Cornerback, Philadelphia Eagles)

Another key player the Bears should be paying attention to is James Bradberry, the veteran cornerback for the Eagles. Bradberry has had a stellar season, solidifying himself as one of the league’s top cornerbacks. Known for his ability to shut down top receivers, Bradberry has proven his worth as a true lockdown corner. His ball skills and physical play have earned him a reputation as a playmaker in the secondary.

For the Bears, a player like Bradberry would be a game-changer in their secondary. Chicago’s defense has some promising talent, but they need an experienced cornerback who can cover the opposing team’s top receiver, especially in the NFC North where teams like the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions have potent passing games. Bradberry would immediately elevate the Bears’ defensive backfield, giving them a veteran presence and the ability to compete with some of the league’s best wide receivers.

Bradberry’s status as an impending free agent makes him a player the Bears should monitor closely. If the Eagles don’t re-sign him, he could be a prime target for Chicago to improve their defensive backfield.

Why Bradberry is a Good Fit for the Bears:

• Shutdown corner: The Bears have struggled at times to contain the league’s top wideouts. Bradberry’s ability to match up against No. 1 receivers would instantly upgrade their defense.
• Veteran presence: With young cornerbacks like Kyler Gordon and Jaquan Brisker, Bradberry’s experience would provide valuable leadership and mentorship in the secondary.
• Turnover creator: Bradberry has a knack for creating turnovers, which would be a huge asset to the Bears’ defense as they look to create more opportunities for their offense.

3. JuJu Smith-Schuster (Wide Receiver, Kansas City Chiefs)

On the offensive side of the ball, the Chicago Bears have a young quarterback in Justin Fields, and surrounding him with reliable pass-catchers will be a key part of their offensive development. One player who could help elevate their passing game is JuJu Smith-Schuster, the wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Smith-Schuster has been a reliable target for Patrick Mahomes, contributing with his strong route running, solid hands, and ability to make plays after the catch. Over the years, he’s proven himself to be a versatile receiver who can work both in the short and intermediate game, making him a perfect complement to Fields’ skill set. His experience playing with a top-tier quarterback like Mahomes would be invaluable as he adapts to working with a developing quarterback in Fields.

The Bears have struggled to find consistent playmakers at the wide receiver position, and while they have young talent like Darnell Mooney and Chase Claypool, adding a veteran like Smith-Schuster would give Fields a reliable weapon in the passing game. If the Chiefs are unable to re-sign him, the Bears should absolutely consider pursuing him in free agency.

Why Smith-Schuster is a Good Fit for the Bears:

• Versatility: Smith-Schuster is a versatile receiver who can thrive in a variety of offensive schemes, making him an excellent fit for the Bears’ evolving offense.
• Experience with top quarterbacks: Having worked with Mahomes, Smith-Schuster has experience in high-pressure situations and can provide leadership and guidance to Fields as he matures into a starting NFL quarterback.
• Big play ability: Smith-Schuster can make plays after the catch and is a reliable target in both short and deep routes, something the Bears could use to stretch defenses and open up their offense.

4. Orlando Brown Jr. (Offensive Tackle, Kansas City Chiefs)

Finally, the Chicago Bears need to look no further than Orlando Brown Jr., the dominant offensive tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs. Brown is one of the best left tackles in the NFL, and he has proven to be an essential part of the Chiefs’ offensive line, protecting Mahomes’ blindside and allowing the offense to operate at its highest level.

For the Bears, improving their offensive line is a major priority this offseason. Justin Fields has shown tremendous potential, but the lack of consistent protection in the pocket has led to struggles for the young quarterback. Adding a player like Brown would provide a massive upgrade at the left tackle position, solidifying the offensive line and giving Fields the time he needs to progress as a passer.

Brown’s upcoming free agency makes him a player worth keeping an eye on. If the Chiefs are unable to re-sign him, the Bears should pursue him as a top target. His ability to anchor the line and provide stability for the quarterback would be a game-changer for Chicago.

Why Brown is a Good Fit for the Bears:

• Elite protection: Brown is one of the best left tackles in the league and would instantly improve the Bears’ offensive line, allowing Fields more time to make plays.
• Physicality and leadership: Brown’s size, strength, and leadership on the line would help set the tone for the Bears’ offensive line for years to come.
• Protecting Fields’ future: As the Bears’ franchise quarterback, Fields’ development depends heavily on offensive line play. Brown’s addition would provide the stability and protection Fields needs to succeed.