Seems Chicago Bears May Have Another Pass Rush Option After All

Watching Micah Parsons go to the Green Bay Packers was frustrating for Chicago Bears fans. Not only did their arch-rival get one of the best defensive players in the league, but it was also at a position the Bears have clear needs. Austin Booker just went on IR with a knee injury. That leaves Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo as the only two proven pass rushers on the roster. An injury to either of them completely exposes the defense, to say nothing of how easy it might be to wear those guys down from playing too many snaps. The Bears can't be this naive to think everything is fine.

A few veteran options, such as Za'Darius Smith, Preston Smith, and Jadeveon Clowney, could help. However, each would demand starting-level snaps, which would take away opportunities from Booker once he returns. If the Bears want a solution, it probably has to be somebody younger they feel can offer the team long-term potential. As luck would have it, there might be a situation developing out east. Word has spread that Keion White, the New England Patriots' former 2nd round pick, has been demoted, according to Karen Guregian of Mass Live.

This would suggest the young pass rusher has fallen out of favor with the new coaching staff.

During the course of camp and the preseason, the physically-gifted White had seemingly lost his starting job to the newly signed K’Lavon Chaisson.

Speaking with White at his locker Thursday, the Patriots defensive end didn’t care much about the perception he was demoted, or relegated to the second team.

He was rather glib about the subject.

“As long as I have a job, I like the fact that I have one,” White said. “I could care less. They could put me at corner. If they’re going to pay me, I’ll play it.”

White is exactly the type of player the Chicago Bears should gamble on.

For one, he has the dimension that defensive coordinator Dennis Allen prefers at 6'5, 285 lbs. For another, he had a productive second season for the Patriots, collecting five sacks, 16 QB hits, and 45 pressures last season. It feels like the 26-year-old is poised for a true breakout year. Mike Vrabel likely has his reasons for demoting White, but it isn't easy to understand. One thing is certain. If this means the young defensive end is available, the Chicago Bears have every reason to make an aggressive offer. He won't cost nearly as much to acquire as Parsons and fits the defense they plan to implement. A trio of him, Sweat, and Odeyingbo would be far more viable. It would be shocking if the Bears don't make some sort of move in the next week.