The Chicago Bears and the Rams are linked to an offensive line trade.

The Chicago Bears and the Rams Are Linked to an Offensive Line Trade: What It Means for Both Teams

As the NFL offseason progresses and teams begin to assess their rosters for the 2023 season, the Chicago Bears and the Los Angeles Rams have emerged as two teams reportedly interested in making a trade centered around bolstering their offensive lines. Both franchises have distinct needs at the position, and a trade between the two could have a significant impact on their respective seasons. The Bears, under the direction of general manager Ryan Poles, have been focused on rebuilding their roster, with a particular emphasis on improving their offensive line. The Rams, while in a slightly different phase of their rebuild, are also in need of reinforcements to protect their quarterback and maintain offensive productivity.

This connection between the Bears and Rams has intrigued many analysts and fans alike, as it could mark a significant shift in the balance of power within their respective divisions. The notion of a trade involving offensive linemen could address some critical issues for both teams, but it would also come with risks and rewards. In this article, we’ll dive into the potential trade scenarios, what each team stands to gain, and the impact this trade could have on their future.

The Chicago Bears’ Offensive Line Situation

The Chicago Bears’ offensive line has been one of the team’s most pressing areas of concern for several years. Despite some solid individual performances, the group has struggled to provide consistent protection for quarterback Justin Fields. The lack of a strong and cohesive offensive line has been a major roadblock for the Bears in their efforts to develop Fields and build a high-powered offense.

In 2022, Fields showcased his dynamic ability as a playmaker, particularly with his legs, but the Bears’ inability to protect him in the pocket led to a high number of sacks and pressures. The Bears ranked 31st in the league in sacks allowed, which highlights the need for a major upgrade up front. Fields, who is known for his athleticism and ability to extend plays, often found himself under duress far too quickly, which hindered his growth as a passer and forced him to make decisions in a hurry.

While the Bears’ offensive line was one of the worst in the league in 2022, there is hope on the horizon. The team made a concerted effort to improve the unit in the 2023 offseason by acquiring veterans like Nate Davis to provide leadership and bolster the interior of the line. However, there is still work to be done, especially at tackle, where the Bears have struggled to find consistent starters. With Fields needing protection to develop into a top-tier quarterback, the team’s ability to make improvements to the offensive line will be critical in the coming seasons.

The Los Angeles Rams’ Offensive Line Struggles

For the Rams, their offensive line woes have been a persistent issue that has contributed to the team’s struggles in recent years. In 2022, the Rams’ line was an underwhelming unit, particularly in terms of pass protection. Quarterback Matthew Stafford, who has struggled with injuries in recent years, was forced to endure a lot of pressure behind an offensive line that was often inconsistent and prone to breakdowns.

The Rams’ offensive line also dealt with injuries to key players, including star left tackle Andrew Whitworth, who retired after the Rams’ Super Bowl victory in 2022. The departure of Whitworth left a sizable hole in the offensive line, and the Rams have struggled to replace his leadership and consistency. The team also dealt with the loss of starting guard David Edwards and center Brian Allen at various points during the 2022 season, which further hampered the line’s performance.

While the Rams made some additions in the 2023 offseason to address their offensive line issues, it’s clear that the unit remains a major concern. With Stafford returning from injury and the team looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2022 season, improving the offensive line is an urgent need. Stafford’s age and injury history make him even more reliant on strong protection, and without a solid front five, the Rams’ offense could struggle to maintain its effectiveness.

Why the Bears and Rams Are Linked to an Offensive Line Trade

Given the respective needs of the Bears and Rams, a trade centered around an offensive lineman could make sense for both teams. For the Bears, acquiring an experienced and reliable offensive lineman could help solidify their front five, providing better protection for Fields and helping to establish a more consistent running game. On the other hand, the Rams may look to move a veteran lineman in exchange for draft capital or younger assets, especially as they begin to retool their roster and build for the future.

A trade could provide both teams with a solution to their offensive line issues without needing to invest significant resources in the draft or free agency. The Bears, armed with a wealth of cap space and draft picks, could be in a position to acquire a player who can make an immediate impact on their offensive line. The Rams, on the other hand, could look to move a player to free up cap space or accumulate assets to help build their team for the long term.

Potential Trade Scenarios

There are a few offensive linemen from the Rams who could be potential trade targets for the Bears. Each of these players brings a unique set of skills, and depending on the needs of the Bears, one of them could be an ideal fit. Let’s look at some potential trade scenarios.

1. Joseph Noteboom – Left Tackle

Joseph Noteboom is a former third-round pick of the Rams and has started at left tackle in recent seasons. With the retirement of Andrew Whitworth, Noteboom has had the opportunity to prove himself as the team’s top left tackle. While Noteboom has shown flashes of potential, he has struggled with consistency and has been prone to allowing pressure on the quarterback. However, he is still a relatively young player, and with the right coaching and system, he could develop into a solid starter.

For the Bears, Noteboom could be a viable option to help shore up the left tackle position, where they’ve had issues with consistency. Chicago could trade for Noteboom and offer him the chance to compete for a starting role opposite right tackle Larry Borom. While Noteboom may not be a perfect solution, he could provide the Bears with an affordable option while giving him the opportunity to prove himself as a long-term starter.

2. Rob Havenstein – Right Tackle

Rob Havenstein is a veteran right tackle who has been a staple of the Rams’ offensive line for several years. At 6’8” and 330 pounds, Havenstein is a large and imposing figure who is known for his ability to hold his ground in pass protection. While Havenstein is coming off a few years of inconsistent play, he remains a solid right tackle with the potential to contribute at a high level.

The Bears’ right tackle position has been another area of weakness, and Havenstein could provide an immediate upgrade. With his size, experience, and ability to anchor against strong pass-rushers, Havenstein could be an ideal fit for the Bears’ scheme. A trade for Havenstein would give the Bears a reliable veteran at the position, providing stability on the right side of their offensive line and helping protect Fields’ blind side.

3. Brian Allen – Center

Brian Allen, the Rams’ starting center, has been a key part of their offensive line for several years. While he has dealt with injuries in recent seasons, Allen is known for his strong leadership and experience at the center position. If the Rams are looking to move on from some of their veteran players as they retool, Allen could be a valuable trade chip.

For the Bears, a trade for Allen could provide them with a reliable option at center, which has been an area of concern in recent years. While the team added free agent Nate Davis to the interior of the offensive line, the center position remains a key spot for the Bears to address. Allen’s experience and leadership could help anchor the Bears’ offensive line, providing Justin Fields with a strong foundation in the middle.

What a Trade Means for Both Teams

For the Bears

A trade for an offensive lineman would represent a significant step forward in the Bears’ offensive rebuild. With Justin Fields entering a critical year of his development, having a strong offensive line in front of him will be crucial. A more secure pocket will allow Fields to make better decisions, improve his accuracy, and ultimately take the next step in his development as a passer.

Acquiring a veteran offensive lineman could also provide the Bears with the stability they need to develop their running game. With Khalil Herbert and other backs on the roster, the Bears need a strong offensive line to establish a successful ground attack. A trade for a player like Havenstein or Noteboom would not only improve pass protection but also create a more balanced offense that can control the line of scrimmage and dictate tempo.

For the Rams

For the Rams, trading an offensive lineman could free up cap space and help them build for the future. With Stafford’s age and injury history, the Rams are likely in a transition phase where they need to continue retooling their roster around their aging star. Moving a veteran like Havenstein or Allen could provide them with draft picks or younger players who can help contribute to the team’s long-term success.

Additionally, moving a veteran player could give younger offensive linemen the opportunity to step into more prominent roles, allowing the Rams to evaluate their future options. With their eyes set on the future, the Rams may look to free up resources to better position themselves for the 2024 season and beyond.