The Chicago Bears aren't likely to frivolously spend money the rest of this year. Not unless an absolute pressing need makes it imperatives. At the same time, one thing remains true of GM Ryan Pace. He never stops looking for ways to make his team better. If he sniffs an opportunity that can work to the Bears' advantage? He'll jump at it, even if it's somewhat expensive.
One spot that has garnered a lot of discussions is nose tackle on defense. A few months ago the Bears had no reason to worry about it. Eddie Goldman was one of the best in the NFL at that position and in his prime. Then COVID-19 struck the country. Fearing the virus might impact prior health issues, Goldman decided to opt-out of playing in 2020.
That suddenly left a huge void in the middle of their defensive line. With free agency and the draft already passed, how do they fill it? Their decision ended up being moving former 5th round pick, Bilal Nichols, from his traditional end spot. Early signs in training camp are he embraced the move and looked dynamic in a lot of drills. Yet plenty still believe it would be wise for the Bears to find a more traditional option.
One name that keeps floating around? Damon Harrison.
The giant defensive tackle spent the past two seasons in Detroit with the Lions. He is best known as one of the top run-stuffers in the league. Somebody offensive lines can almost never move. When implored by a Bears fan to consider coming to Chicago, the veteran had an interesting response.
Chicago Bears could scoop Harrison if Nichols doesn't deliver
It's curious why Harrison hasn't signed somewhere already. The general belief is he hasn't gotten an offer enticing enough to accept. His agent has heard from several teams thus far but nothing that piqued his interest. Odds are when the season starts and teams have a better idea of what they have, the interest in his services will spike.
This could end up being the case for the Bears. Nichols will be a primary key for their run defense this season. If he can't handle the job at least enough to be serviceable? The team may have to rethink their plans at that position. Their best course would be to grab Harrison and plug him into it. An area he knows well and has performed at a high level at for years.
The fact there could be mutual interest will only work in their favor.
Comments
Join the discussion below. Keep it civil and focused on the content.
Loading comments...