3 EDGE defenders the Bears Could Target in Free Agency

The Chicago Bears took a sizable step towards solving their long-lasting issues at the EDGE position when trading for, and signing, Montez Sweat to a long-term extension in 2023.

Sweat was outstanding, recording six sacks in nine regular-season appearances.

General manager Ryan Poles is now tasked with identifying an appropriate running mate opposite Sweat. Even with Sweat’s late-season heroics, the Bears totaled a 31st-ranked 30.0 sacks, showcasing minimal improvement from their bottom-ranked 20-sack season in 2022.

Yannick Ngakoue is a free agent, and DeMarcus Walker didn’t produce enough sacks to justify his $7 million annual price tag. With that in mind, we’ve identified three potential EDGE defenders the Bears could target in free agency.

BRIAN BURNS, CAROLINA PANTHERS

The Panthers have called off contract discussions with Brian Burns, according to various reports. If the Bears are intent on fixing their pass-rush once and for all, Poles should aggressively pursue Burns’ signature. Cap space isn’t going to be an issue if Justin Fields is traded and the quarterback clock is reset by drafting Caleb Williams on a cost-controlled four-year contract. The time to spend recklessly is now, and Burns is the type of premier talent at a position of need worth backing up the Brinks truck for.

LEONARD FLOYD, BUFFALO BILLS

Could a reunion with Leonard Floyd materialize? Stranger things have happened. Floyd failed to meet lofty expectations as the Bears’ ninth overall selection in the 2016 NFL Draft but has since accumulated 38.5 sacks in four campaigns since leaving Chicago. Floyd totaled 9.5 quarterback takedowns this past season in Buffalo. His defensive line coach was Eric Washington, who agreed to become the Bears’ new defensive coordinator. Familiarity with coach Washington and the city of Chicago could draw Floyd back to his original stomping grounds.

JONATHAN GREENARD, HOUSTON TEXANS

Jonathan Greenard is a hard-nosed defender who rushes the passer and stops the run. Bears head coach Matt Eberflus is familiar with Greenard’s approach after previously competing against him in the AFC South division. Pairing Greenard with Sweat would give the Bears one of the most versatile and tough pass-rushing duos in all of football.