After trading for two new guards, most believed the Chicago Bears would switch their focus to the center position as part of their focus to rebuild the interior offensive line. Almost immediately, the name Drew Dalman came up. The 26-year-old from Atlanta is widely considered the best of a mediocre class. Head coach Ben Johnson mentioned he would prefer a veteran center to help the development of Caleb Williams. Since then, multiple local Bears media have brought his name up as one to watch, from Adam Hoge to Brad Biggs and Courtney Cronin.
However, people often aren’t ready to buy into rumors until the big national guys start saying something. Sure enough, with 24 hours to go before the insanity begins, it happened. Jordan Schultz of FOX Sports dropped an update that Dalman is expected to have a strong market and that the Bears will be a “serious suitor.” The fact they are the only team mentioned should tell you all you need to know.
Drew Dalman fits what the new Bears regime wants to do.
The prevailing assessment of him is that he is a high-quality run blocker who is just okay in pass protection. That may not sit well with some. However, for Johnson, that isn’t a problem. His offense was a run-oriented scheme in Detroit, so it makes sense he would want quality run-blockers up front. Dalman may not be for everybody, but his strengths fit what the new head coach wants to do. Considering the Bears were only 25th in rushing last season, it only makes more sense.
Everything comes down to the numbers. How much will Drew Dalman cost? Projections are $14 million per year. That would make him the second-highest-paid center in the NFL. It is a lot. The Bears can afford it. They have $50 million in cap space remaining. Poles can sign him and still have more than enough space to make further moves. Landing Dalman would give him a free hand to go in any direction during the draft next month.
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It finally occurred to me who sally reminds me of, after watching an episode of The Office today. Dwight K Schrute, that annoying, pompous ass.
Perhaps Dalman prefers to play with a winner and not go through all the drama with the Bears.
They only need a center for two years. Draft the best guard/center in the 2nd round and develop them to be able to be #1 backup at both spots. Starting within two seasons. Draft an O lineman within the first 4 rounds EVERY YEAR. Better to have extra than not enough.
What if Dalman asks for more money than Jackson? What would Poles do then?
DK Metcalf to the Steelers. Signed a 4/$132M extension