The Chicago Bears’ defense overhaul from 3-4 to 4-3 remains ongoing. All things considered, GM Ryan Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus did some good work. They revamped the secondary thanks to the arrival of veteran Tavon Young and rookies Kyler Gordon and Jaquan Brisker. They also added more speed at linebacker with Nicholas Morrow. The lingering concern rests on the defensive line, specifically defensive tackle, where they haven’t managed to find a definitive interior pass rush presence after the failure to sign Larry Ogunjobi. This brings up an interesting talking point. What about Akiem Hicks?
The former Pro Bowler expressed his desire to remain in Chicago late last year if possible. He loves the city and would like to finish his career here. Unfortunately, it looked like the arrival of a new regime and new defense made that unlikely. Not to mention Hicks’ suspected price tag is too high. A few months later, it may be time to explore that idea again. Hicks remains unsigned as a free agent almost two months after the new league year began. At 32-years old, his market might not be what he’d hoped.
In situations like this, a reunion makes sense.
The Bears weren’t able to find the forceful interior presence they wanted. Their most notable addition was Justin Jones, and he doesn’t have the greatest track record rushing the QB. Ogunjobi might still be possible, but that feels unlikely after what happened with the failed physical. Akiem Hicks might not be the long-term answer they want, but he could make for the perfect stopgap until another opportunity comes up.
Not to mention it would be a gigantic boost to the morale of that locker room. Hicks is still a dominant force in the middle when he’s healthy. He’ll demand double teams, allowing the edge rusher more one-on-one opportunities. It isn’t the ideal solution Poles and Eberflus wanted, but one has to adapt to serve the team’s best interests.
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