Bears Free Agency Preview: Javon Hargrave is the 3-tech Matt Eberflus needs

The Chicago Bears’ 2023 free agency plan took a hit after the Washington Commanders decided to place the franchise tag on defensive tackle Daron Payne. But that doesn’t mean coach Matt Eberflus won’t get his wish and field a top-notch three-technique in his defense next season.

There’s a chance the Bears could select Georgia’s Jalen Carter in the first round of the 2023 NFL draft, but Carter is facing legal issues that must be resolved before Chicago can invest a high draft asset in him.

Furthermore, the 2023 free agent class includes more than just Payne as a game-changer for the defense’s interior. Enter Philadelphia Eagles star Javon Hargrave.

Javon Hargrave’s resume of success is undeniable

Hargrave, 30, will be the most sought-after free-agent defensive lineman and is expected to command a hefty payday. His production makes him worth it. The veteran tallied a career-high 11 sacks in 2022 and has steadily increased his sack production in the last four seasons. He’s totaled 37.5 sacks over his seven-year career and would provide the Chicago Bears with the kind of interior disruption sorely missing from the defense in 2022.

Javon Hargrave was a third-round pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2016 NFL Draft. He’s started 96 games since then. According to Pro Football Focus, Hargrave’s pass-rush grade since 2020 trails only Aaron Donald and Chris Jones, and he’s proven to be a solid defender against the run.

The downside with Hargrave is his age. At 30 years old, the Bears may decide to pursue a younger option like Dre’Mont Jones (Denver Broncos, 26 years old). But it would be foolish to pass on Hargrave just for that reason.

Hargrave is about to get paid

Unlike edge rushers and cornerbacks, positions that require youthful twitch and burst to maintain success, interior defenders tend to age well. They can play at a high level into their early 30s. It’s fair to assume Hargrave has at least two dominant seasons left in the tank. He should still be a quality starter at 33.

According to Spotrac, Javon Hargrave is in line for a three-year, $60.4 million deal in free agency. Sure, that’s a lot of money to pay for a free agent on the wrong side of 30. But as I already stated, Hargrave should remain productive for the next three seasons. As long as the Bears don’t commit to a contract that extends beyond that, they should receive a quality return on their investment.

The Chicago Bears have Justin Jones on the roster through the 2023 season. He was decent last year and will factor in the defense’s plans again next fall. Pairing him with Hargrave will turn a general weakness into an absolute strength, and allow Eberflus’ system to blossom.

It’s up to Ryan Poles to open the checkbook and make it happen.

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