The Chicago Bears have found their head coach. GM Ryan Poles conducted a disciplined and thorough search over the past two months. Right around Christmas time, he concluded that Ben Johnson was the guy. After weeks of careful planning, the Bears secured the highly-touted offensive coordinator to become the franchise’s 19th head coach. Fans are excited. The wider NFL is intrigued. Now comes the next challenge. Poles must fortify the roster for a legitimate playoff run next year.
Everybody knows the one position that needs help the most is the offensive line. Chicago probably needs an entirely new interior. There is no way they will be able to plug all of them in the draft, which means Poles may have to go hunting for help in free agency. Sadly, the best possible option won’t be available. Or at least that is what everybody thought. Field Yates of ESPN dropped a bombshell on the CHGO Bears Podcast that it’s his belief that star right guard Trey Smith of the Kansas City Chiefs will hit the market.
This was reinforced by Joseph Grassano of KC Kingdom, who covers the Chiefs.
“The Kansas City Chiefs are set to have many key pieces enter free agency this offseason. Among those players is right guard Trey Smith.
Since entering the league in 2021, Smith has become one of the best interior offensive linemen in the NFL. As a result, he will command a high price tag that the Chiefs likely won’t be able to match.”
Ryan Poles is in the perfect position to lure Smith to Chicago.
Start with the obvious part. The two have a relationship. Poles was part of the Chiefs front office when they drafted the Tennessee guard in 2021. The Bears GM knows the type of player and person he is. Second, Chicago has the cash. They’re projected to have at least $66 million in cap space and can easily create more. Presuming Smith seeks more than $20 million per year, the Bears would have no problem affording it. Lastly, the arrival of Johnson is sure to draw attention. He’s renowned as one of the best offensive minds in the league. Smith would probably prefer playing for a coach similar to what he has enjoyed with Andy Reid in Kansas City.
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Unfortunately, it won’t be easy. Several teams have offensive line needs going into this offseason. That includes the New England Patriots who have by far the most salary cap space with $132 million. They also have a young quarterback they must protect. It wouldn’t be surprising if they came forward with a massive offer. Ryan Poles doesn’t usually like to spend big in free agency, but this is a case where he knows he must come out aggressive. Smith is a worthwhile target to take your shot.
Poles had best include HC in his efforts this time around.