The Chicago Bears free agent agenda will likely stick to the original script. Ryan Pace has a certain style. He targets players that are generally younger who are trending up in their careers. This allows him to get them for slightly cheaper. Also included is the fact they come from high character backgrounds. Some early mistakes during his first year with guys like Ray McDonald likely taught him that lesson.
One can understand his caution. At the same time risk is part of the job. Sooner or later it feels like Pace will have to take a calculated gamble on a player with a somewhat questionable background if he’s going to significantly upgrade his roster. It’s almost impossible to build an NFL team made entirely of boy scouts. Matt Millen always said that you need at least one or two “pricks” on the field.
Since 2018 is such an important off-season, the Bears can’t close the doors entirely on the idea of adding a “prick” to their team. There is one name set to become a free agent they must seriously consider. Somebody with a connection to their coaching staff, as it turns out.
Dion Jordan should be a Chicago Bears free agent target
Mention the name Dion Jordan and a lot of NFL enthusiasts immediately cringe. It’s understandable. The former Oregon standout looked like a star in the making when he was drafted in 2013. His absurd mix of size, power, length, and athleticism had rarely been seen before. What they failed to grasp was his lack of maturity.
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Over the next four years, his career was put in limbo by a mixture of injuries and suspensions. Many thought he’d never play a meaningful down again after missing the entire 2015 and 2016 seasons. The Seattle Seahawks though were willing to give him another chance and he took advantage. Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune agrees that his performance last season might be just enough to warrant a short-term deal.
“Former No. 3 overall pick Dion Jordan has been an absolute bust, but he produced four sacks in five games for the Seahawks last season. Offensive coordinator Mark Helfrich could certainly offer insight on the former Duck, who missed the entire 2015 and 2016 seasons.”
Helfrich was at Oregon throughout Jordan’s entire run. If anybody can provide insight into the edge rusher as a player and person, it’s him. The amazing thing is Jordan is still just 27-years old. Considering how much time he’s missed, his body has the wear and tear of a player three years younger. So there’s zero danger of him breaking down anytime soon.
The Bears normally wouldn’t take a risk like this but they’re in a difficult position. Their edge rusher group is in a major transition state. Leonard Floyd is their only prominent member under the age of 30. Pernell McPhee and Willie Young are both coming off major injuries. This team has to find a younger rusher who can play opposite Floyd.
Given the uncertainties of the incoming draft class, Pace may have to think about taking a risk in free agency to find that solution. If Jordan can keep his head on straight, a pairing of him and Floyd could be fun to watch.
