The Drew Dalman To Bears Smoke Has Grown To Extreme Levels

GM Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson sent a message this past week that there is no more fooling around. The Chicago Bears are fully committed to building the roster to help Caleb Williams. That meant investing heavily in the offensive line. It started with the trade for Jonah Jackson from Los Angeles, a former Pro Bowler with direct ties to Johnson. Next came a trade with Kansas City for Joe Thuney, a former All-Pro guard whom Poles helped sign in 2021. Some believe these moves ease the burden of doing anything crazy in free agency. However, it appears the Bears aren't done yet. They have eyes for top-rated center Drew Dalman.

All one has to do is follow the smoke. It's gotten thicker than ever over the past few days. It started with Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune mentioning him in a recent column.

"The Bears still could be a major player for Atlanta Falcons center Drew Dalman. They would quickly have a lot of money and cap space tied up in the offensive line if they sign Dalman to a deal that could make him close to the highest-paid center in the league."

He wasn't alone. Courtney Cronin of ESPN got in on the action, stating unequivocally that the Bears are still in the market for a center. Only one name was mentioned.

The Bears are in the market for a new center and could look to add the top free agent available next week. Atlanta's Drew Dalman had a pass block win rate of 95.1% in the nine games he played for the Falcons last season (before missing time with an ankle injury), which ranked ninth among centers who played at least 500 snaps.

As if that weren't enough, the infamous Twitter (X) handle, SearSTower, chimed in. He had accurate information on the Bears over the past few months, particularly regarding Johnson's hire, and he gave a not-so-subtle update on their free agency plans.

Drew Dalman would drastically alter the Bears' draft plans.

They've already upgraded the guard spots. Adding a quality middle man would all but secure their interior offensive line. Poles would be free to go any direction he wants in the draft next month. He could pursue a much-needed pass rusher to pair with Montez Sweat on the defensive line. He could bring the offensive line rebuild to a crescendo by drafting the team's future left tackle. Last but not least, he could get Johnson another playmaker in the form of running back Ashton Jeanty.

Projections have Drew Dalman commanding somewhere in the vicinity of $13-14 million per year. If the market is competitive enough, that may go higher. Such a contract would signal the Bears are dead serious about this season. They've gone through the rebuild process. They have their quarterback. It is time to start winning football games. Nobody is confusing Dalman with a star. He has certain flaws that the best centers don't have. Still, his style of play fits who the Bears want to be. That is enough.