As training camp begins, one of the most puzzling situations surrounding the Chicago Bears is their edge rushers. Most experts and fans agree the position is the biggest weakness of their defense. The only notable additions made this past off-season were veterans DeMarcus Walker and Rasheem Green. Walker's impact as a rusher is primarily when he moves inside, while Green has never been known for stockpiling sacks. It's obvious the team still lacks a dynamic presence. GM Ryan Poles even said the team is actively searching for options a couple of months ago.
Yet nothing has materialized. Bears reporters finally got the chance to ask him why during the pre-training camp press conference. Poles insisted the team hadn't stopped their search. However, his explanation was interesting.
In essence, Poles is saying the players they've reached out to about a possible deal either don't wish to join the Bears or, more likely, are making too high of a contract demand. Remember, Poles is notorious for being careful with his spending when it comes to older players. He might be waiting things out until price points drop to where he's comfortable.
Ryan Poles seems content to let the young guys work.
He has confidence is what Walker is bringing to the table. Then there is the question of Trevis Gipson and Dominique Robinson. Gipson had only three sacks last year but did have seven in 2021. So the Bears know he is capable of putting up solid numbers. As for Robinson, the former 5th round pick would always be a project. He'd only shifted to the defensive line a couple of years before joining the NFL. His game required a lot of work and patience. Both come in with a better understanding of the system. Poles doesn't seem to think it's crazy they can take a step forward.
The truth is the Bears don't feel much pressure to make a move right now. Sure, it would be nice to have somebody in for the entirety of training camp. However, it's not a requirement. In fact, this organization already has evidence that they can wait until right before the regular season. Don't forget they traded for Khalil Mack on September 1st in 2018, long after camp had ended. He still went on to have 12 sacks and one of the best seasons a Bears pass rusher has ever had. Not much scheme understanding is needed to hunt the quarterback.
