The Chicago Bears are in a weird place. For the first time in over a decade, it feels like their identity is on the offensive side of the ball. Head coach Ben Johnson has that unit playing exceptionally well in recent weeks, ranking in the top 10 in every major category. Caleb Williams is improving at quarterback. They are one of the best rushing teams in the league. It is exciting stuff. Unfortunately, this coincides with a defense that is besieged by injuries. Three starters are on Injured Reserve: Jaylon Johnson, Kyler Gordon, and Dayo Odeyingbo. Others like Shemar Turner, Dominique Robinson, and Terell Smith are also on the shelf.
It's been showing on the field as the defense allowed 42 points last week in Cincinnati. Dennis Allen needs help. GM Ryan Poles tried getting him some at the trade deadline, bringing in veteran pass rusher Joe Tryon-Shoyinka from Cleveland. Though he isn't a gamebreaker, he should be able to shore up Chicago's razor-thin depth. Now it appears Poles might not be done. Ian Rapoport revealed that the Bears are showing considerable interest in free agent cornerback Asante Samuel Jr., who has recently been cleared from spinal fusion surgery.
Samuel Jr. would be a big help for the Chicago Bears.
Injuries have decimated their cornerback room. It got so bad that they had to sign C.J. Gardner-Johnson to fill the slot cornerback role, even though he's traditionally more of a safety. Samuel Jr. was one of the better nickel corners in the NFL between 2021 and 2023, snagging nine interceptions. The back injury wiped out most of his 2024 season, and he's been recovering ever since. Nobody knows if he will be the same player from a few years ago, but the risk is worth it.
If Samuel has some of that old form, he would instantly help stabilize the Chicago Bears' back end. His ability to create turnovers would also be an excellent fit in Allen's scheme. Once Johnson and Gordon return, the Bears could have a foursome, along with Tyrique Stevenson, that could be formidable. That is without mentioning Gardner-Johnson, Jaquan Brisker, and Kevin Byard. The obvious obstacle is the list of other teams interested in his services as well.
