2023 Free Agency: 3 free-agent defensive linemen the Bears should pursue this offseason

The Chicago Bears are nearing the end of one of the worst seasons in franchise history. Their win-loss record is abysmal, but there is some light at the end of this very dark road.

The Bears are projected to have the most money under the salary cap entering the 2023 free-agency signing period. In fact, it won’t even be close. If Chicago has their heart set on a player, he’s as good as theirs.

We’ve already touched on three wide receivers and offensive linemen the Bears should pursue once the spending spree kicks off. Now, it’s time to focus on the other side of the ball.

Here are three defensive linemen that would make sense for the Chicago Bears in free agency.

Other Free Agency Previews: WR | OL

Daron Payne, Commanders

With Elgton Jenkins re-signing with the Green Bay Packers, Payne could move to the top of the Chicago Bears’ free-agent wish list. He’d instantly level up the Bears’ interior run defense and offers unique pass-rushing ability as well.

Payne has a career-high 11.5 sacks in 2022, and at just 26 years old, he’d be a foundational piece to a rebuilding defense.

Javon Hargrave, Eagles

Hargrave will make a fantastic consolation prize if the Bears don’t land Payne. And the only reason he’d be a second choice is his age, he’ll be 30 years old next season.

Like Payne, Hargrave has a career-high 11 sacks this season and has proven to be one of the most productive interior defenders in the league in back-to-back seasons.

Zach Allen, Cardinals

Allen’s versatile skill set will make him an appealing target in free agency this year. He’s setting career highs across the board in Pro Football Focus metrics. Allen is a steady performer who can play inside and outside and is set to cash in after entering the league as a third-round pick in 2019.

The Bears need to target players like Allen, who can fill multiple roles with high-level ability. He’d fit the “add good football players” mantra that quality teams tend to follow.