Chicago Bears Set to Snag Top Offensive Lineman in 2024: The Ideal Successor to Darnell Wright

While most expect the Chicago Bears to seek a defensive end, they might instead opt for an offensive lineman to support Caleb Williams.

Chicago Bears General Manager Ryan Poles has excelled at roster building. Last offseason, he revamped the defense, which is now on the brink of elite status. This season, he overhauled the offense, which now shows promise of becoming a scoring powerhouse.

Since 2022, Poles has been rebuilding the Chicago Bears’ roster. Initially, he dismantled it, bringing in low-cost, lower-talent players. This strategy freed up salary cap space, and fortune favored him with the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. He then executed a franchise-altering trade, securing another first-round pick for 2024.

Through savvy draft picks, notable trades, and key free agent signings, the Chicago Bears are poised to become playoff contenders.

However, the job isn’t finished. There are still gaps in the roster. Many speculate that Poles is in search of a defensive end to complement Montez Sweat. While Poles drafted Austin Booker, with just 580 college snaps, Booker remains a project.

Depending on Booker’s progress and the performance of other defensive ends in training camp, Poles might seek a veteran pass rusher. Several free agents are still available and will start signing with teams soon, so Poles might be on the lookout.

Alternatively, if Poles feels confident in his pass rush, he might shift his focus elsewhere. He has already invested in the offensive line, acquiring Matt Pryor, Ryan Bates, and Coleman Shelton through trades or free agency, and drafting Kiran Amegadjie in the third round of this year’s draft.

Bates and Shelton are vying for the center position, but the ultimate starter might not yet be on the roster.

The right guard position is concerning. Nate Davis, signed last season as a free agent, had a tumultuous season, marred by personal tragedy and injury. Despite hopes that the offseason would allow him to recover and adjust, Davis did not attend OTAs and was limited during the mandatory minicamp, raising concerns about his readiness.

Reportedly frustrated, the coaching staff has been exploring other options at right guard. Rumors suggest the Bears might consider replacing Davis, potentially with Bates or Shelton, both of whom have guard experience.

Teven Jenkins, though talented, has struggled with injuries, missing significant time each season. The Bears need a contingency plan for when Jenkins is unavailable.

Given these uncertainties, the Bears might prioritize an offensive piece over defense. They could target a center, particularly a high-quality one like Connor Williams. Williams, a second-round pick by the Dallas Cowboys in 2018, was integral to their offensive line. He continued his success with the Miami Dolphins but suffered an ACL injury in Week 14 of last season, making teams cautious.

Williams is on track for training camp and the 2024 season. As camps begin, teams will assess his medical status, and someone will make an offer. Many believe the Bears could be that team. Despite Poles’ preference for Bates and Shelton, Williams might be the ideal player to support rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. At 27, Williams is a skilled center and could be crucial if he proves healthy.

Connor Williams could bring leadership to the offensive line. His experience, strength, and athleticism would benefit the young quarterback, helping with offensive blocking schemes and mentoring Caleb Williams.

With over $21.5 million in salary cap space, the Bears can afford Williams, potentially at a discount if he needs to prove his recovery. Adding him at a reasonable cost would be hard for Poles to resist.

Poles has prioritized the offense this offseason, setting the rookie quarterback up for success. Signing another key piece to support the quarterback seems like a logical step for the Chicago Bears.