The First Big Domino Is Chicago Bears' Free Agency Plans Fell

Before the Chicago Bears can start planning for the draft, they must navigate free agency. They have more money to spend than any team, so knowing which players will be available is important. Part of that process is figuring out which names will receive the franchise tag, automatically removing them from the market. With the deadline of March 7th, it was only a matter of time before names started coming off the board. Well, the first domino finally fell, and it's one that directly impacted the Bears.

The Washington Commanders announced they have tagged defensive tackle Da'Ron Payne. A former 1st round pick, he had a breakout year in 2022 with 11.5 sacks. Many viewed him as one of the two or three best options on the entire market. He was an obvious target for Chicago. They have glaring pass rush issues up front on defense. Payne would've been the perfect choice for their three-technique position, and they had more money than anybody to throw at him. Now they will have to seek alternatives.

The Chicago Bears will likely shift their focus to one name.

If they still wish to find defensive tackle help in free agency, the one name that stands out is Dre'Mont Jones. He's averaged 5-6 sacks each of the past three years for the Denver Broncos and is on the younger side as free agents go. The Broncos are reportedly trying feverishly to re-sign him but may not have the necessary capital. Payne getting tagged benefits him in a big way, as it limits the market. Teams will be eager to sign him, driving up his price tag. If the Bears can't land him, their best shot would be Javon Hargrave. While he was excellent last year for the Philadelphia Eagles (11 sacks), he's 30 years old.

After them, you're looking at guys like Dalvin Tomlinson, Poona Ford, and David Onyemata. A decent group but not nearly of the same caliber as the bigger names. It wouldn't be a surprise if the Chicago Bears shifted their focus at defensive tackle to the NFL draft at that point. GM Ryan Poles has often stated he won't overpay in free agency. Throwing big money at B-grade players is bad business. It wouldn't be a surprise if he shifted focus to the offensive line once free agency begins. The next 7-10 days will be enlightening.