The Chicago Bears will seek help at multiple positions in free agency this year. While most of the focus is on the offensive line, many experts believe they will also seek an additional pass rusher to pair with Montez Sweat. This means GM Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson will lean on the expertise of new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen to determine which direction to take. Like any coach, he has a specific scheme that will require certain types of players to help it function at a high level.
There is no shortage of possible names the Bears could pursue. Chase Young just finished playing last season under Allen in New Orleans and had a good season. Marcus Davenport had his best years under Allen before leaving for Detroit. He will be available as well. However, those weren't the names mentioned by an NFL general manager when asked by Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune.
One assistant GM suggested keeping an eye on Dayo Odeyingbo of the Indianapolis Colts.
“Big, long-body player. Kind of guy you see in a Dennis Allen system,” one GM said.
Odeyingbo (6-6, 286) had three sacks last season after totaling five in 2023. I got a range that was all over the place when asking what people thought he might get in the way of a contract. So I’m not sure what to think here.
Dennis Allen has traditionally had a type.
He likes big, long defensive ends for his defense. Odeyingbo certainly checks those boxes at 6'6, 280 lbs. The former 2nd round pick took some time to get going in Indianapolis, but he's become a quality pass rusher over the past couple of seasons. He had eight sacks in 2023. While he only managed three in 2024, he did have 17 quarterback hits. He isn't a star by any means. That said, if the Bears want a solid complementary #2 guy, they could do a lot worse. Dennis Allen would be able to maximize what he does best, giving the Bears a solid trio alongside Sweat and Gervon Dexter. It also wouldn't break the bank, allowing them to go after help elsewhere on the roster. While not a flashy move, it would be one that certainly helps the team.
