That depends on how aggressive Pace is willing to be. All signs to date have indicated the young GM views this off-season as the most important of his career and the teams’ future under his guidance. Not surprising after a 3-13 season. There are a ton of holes on the roster to fill and losing Jeffery would open up another massive one.
One way the Bears might be able to deal with that loss is via the trade market. For those who don’t remember, two months ago there were rumors swirling about former New Orleans Saints first round pick Brandin Cooks possibly being available. Adam Schefter of ESPN wrote about it.
“Multiple teams believe that New Orleans Saints wide receiver Brandin Cooks’ name could surface in trade talks this offseason, sources told ESPN.
Cooks has acknowledged frustration with his role in the Saints’ offense, expressing himself after a zero-target day against the Los Angeles Rams last week. He believes he is used too often as a clear-out receiver instead of as a primary option, sources told ESPN’s Mike Triplett.
Cooks would be one of the most valuable commodities the Saints have and could bring plenty in return.”
There are some reasons to think the Saints would do this. For one, they’ve already done it before with Jimmy Graham in their deal to Seattle. Since then their offense has barely missed a beat. Besides that there is the sudden rise of other young receiver Michael Thomas. The rookie was outstanding for New Orleans in 2016, posting 1,137 yards and nine touchdowns. His mix of size and playmaking ability is something they can definitely build around.
Then there is the matter of the defense. The Saints are starved for playmakers on that side of the ball. Outside of Cameron Jordan there is really nobody on the depth chart opponents fear. With Drew Brees aging, their window to take one more crack at a Super Bowl is closing. A sacrifice of Cooks in order to get help on that side of the ball might be worth it. Don’t forget that he is also a free agent in 2018.
Subscribe to the BFR Youtube channel and ride shotgun with Dave and Ficky as they break down Bears football like nobody else.
