The Chicago Bears face numerous decisions in free agency this offseason as they continue to enhance their roster, aiming to fill key gaps. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Vikings are undergoing roster changes, presenting opportunities for the Bears to explore potential acquisitions from their divisional rival.
One player from the Minnesota Vikings who might attract the Chicago Bears’ attention is KJ Osborn. Originally drafted in the fifth round by the Vikings, Osborn is set to enter free agency after the expiration of his rookie contract. While he didn’t see much action in his first year, Osborn showcased promise in 2021 with 655 yards and seven touchdowns. However, his subsequent performances haven’t matched that level of success.
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In 2022, Osborn’s yardage slightly increased to 670 yards, but his touchdown receptions decreased to six, and his yards per route run dropped from 1.3 to 1.08. His struggles continued in 2023, recording only 540 yards and three touchdowns, with a further decline in yards per route run to 0.97. Notably, his number of drops surged from two in the previous seasons to seven in the last year.
Despite his recent downturn, Osborn’s versatility in playing both slot and wide positions could be advantageous for the Bears, who have needs at both spots.
While Osborn’s value may be at a low point, a change of scenery and offensive scheme could potentially reignite his performance. His addition could provide competition for current players like Tyler Scott, offering the Bears an intriguing option to consider in their offseason plans.
The Minnesota Vikings boast several intriguing offensive linemen entering free agency this year. Dalton Risner, who joined the Vikings midseason and performed solidly at left guard, offers valuable depth, particularly given injuries to Teven Jenkins.
Oli Udoh, also hitting free agency, brings versatility, having logged significant snaps at right guard, right tackle, and left tackle during his five-year tenure with the Vikings.
David Quessenberry, who filled in admirably at right tackle last season, presents another depth option with his flexibility across multiple positions on the offensive line. With extensive experience at right tackle, left tackle, and right guard, Quessenberry offers valuable versatility.
Austin Schlottmann stands out as a potential target, primarily providing depth but also possessing center experience. With snaps at center, right guard, and left guard throughout his career, Schlottmann could be a prudent addition for the Chicago Bears, especially considering their current lack of a center on the roster.
Even if signed solely for depth purposes, Schlottmann’s versatility makes him a name worth considering.
Could the Chicago Bears be eyeing Johnny Mundt in free agency? Mundt presents an intriguing option for the Bears, albeit not a transformative acquisition. His skill set aligns precisely with their needs, primarily as a blocking-first tight end. Throughout his career, Mundt has amassed 1,045 snaps as a blocker compared to just 386 routes run.
While Mundt’s receiving production has been modest, with a career-high of 172 yards, his primary contribution lies in his blocking ability. This aspect of his game would address a specific need for the Bears, especially considering the impending departure of Marcedes Lewis in free agency.
Currently, Cole Kmet stands as the sole tight end guaranteed a roster spot for the Bears next season. Therefore, the team’s necessity for depth at the position is evident. Pairing Kmet’s developing receiving skills with Mundt’s blocking prowess could create a complementary tandem for the Bears’ offense.
While Mundt may not represent a game-changing signing, his fit within the Bears’ roster and their requirements makes him a prospect worth considering for the team.
The Minnesota Vikings might allow some of their defensive linemen to depart in free agency. Among them, three notable names stand out. Marcus Davenport, despite his potential, has had inconsistent performances throughout his career, leading the Vikings to sign him to a one-year deal below initial expectations. However, his early injury setback and lackluster showing may deter the Vikings from retaining him, potentially opening the door for the Chicago Bears to consider him at the right price.
DJ Wonnum, who stepped in for Davenport and had a standout season, would be a priority re-signing for the Vikings. Yet, if negotiations falter, the Bears could seize the opportunity to pursue the 26-year-old who is currently showcasing his peak performance. Wonnum’s addition would be a valuable but possibly overlooked enhancement to the Bears’ roster.
Jonathan Bullard, another impending free agent, has quietly remained in the league, even logging a career-high 643 snaps last season, predominantly as a starter. Given the Bears’ imminent loss of Justin Jones and Bullard’s potential fit in a rotational capacity, a reunion with the Bears could be conceivable. Given the defensive line’s status as a weak point in the Bears’ defense, monitoring the free agency status of these Vikings linemen becomes a crucial aspect for the Bears’ offseason strategy.
