Former GM Delivers Bold Chicago Bears Take Following Free Agency

The Chicago Bears went into free agency with a plan, and they executed it well by all accounts. GM Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson knew they had to get better along the line of scrimmage. To that end, they moved fast. Two trades landed them former Pro Bowl guards Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney. Then, on the first day of legal tampering, they swiftly secured former Atlanta Falcons center Drew Dalman. With that done, the focus shifted to the defensive side, where they collected defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo and former Pro Bowl defensive tackle Grady Jarrett.

While the moves didn't lead to any superstar talent, the widespread belief is they raised this team's floor. Two major weaknesses have been addressed, granting the Bears a golden opportunity to bring it all together in the draft with three picks in the top 41. One person who is impressed with the work they've done is former Las Vegas Raiders GM Mike Mayock. He revealed on The Rich Eisen Show that the Bears' efforts have made them instant contenders in the NFC. No small words from somebody known for measured takes.

The Chicago Bears feel like a team that can't be ignored anymore.

One should not forget they were 3-2 and on a three-game winning streak going into the bye last year. They would've reached 4-2 if not for the devastating Hail Mary game in Washington. They then lost three absolute heartbreakers to Green Bay, Minnesota, and Detroit in the final seconds. While the Chicago Bears have to own their 5-12 record, it is essential to note they easily could've been 9-8 if not for some bad breaks. They've revamped their coaching staff, which was a glaring weakness, and have now gotten stronger in the trenches. Mayock might be embellishing somewhat, but he is correct in saying that the Bears are no longer a team that can be dismissed. They're already talented in several key areas. If they can deliver a strong draft, even a loaded division may not stop them this time.