3 Centers the Bears Could Target in Free Agency

The Chicago Bears are expected to acquire a new starting center in 2024. Last year’s primary starter was veteran Lucas Patrick, who played 958 snaps. Patrick was the third-most snapped player on the offense, having stayed on the field for 84.18% of all Bears offensive plays.

General manager Ryan Poles also released Cody Whitehair earlier this offseason, who had previous playing experience at center. Ryan Bates was acquired through trade earlier this week, but Bates is better served as a versatile swing player, not a full-time starter at center. Free agency will provide the Bears with options to add a bonafide difference-maker. We’ve identified three potential options.

ANDRE JAMES, LAS VEGAS RAIDERS

Andre James is arguably the best available center in free agency. James is particularly excellent in pass protection, an area Chicago’s offensive line has struggled to course correct. James could be a stabilizing figure for an offensive line that must take desired steps forward in 2024. James, who was whistled for just three penalties in 2023, is the definition of consistency.

EVAN BROWN, SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

The Bears should probably aim higher than Evan Brown, but familiarity could make him Poles’ Plan B. Brown was the starting center for the Seattle Seahawks throughout 2023, playing a whopping 960 snaps. New Bears offensive coordinator Shane Waldron was Brown’s OC in Seattle last season. Drawing that connection makes Brown a potential target.

COLEMAN SHELTON, LOS ANGELES RAMS

Coleman Shelton took a significant step forward this season, his first as the Rams’ unquestioned starter. Shelton earned a run-blocking grade of 72.6 from Pro Football Focus, playing his best football in a contract year. Waldron spent the 2020 campaign as the Rams’ pass-game coordinator when Shelton was a reserve lineman. Waldron had a front-row seat to his development. If Shelton reaches the market, he’d be an excellent fit for Waldron’s familiar scheme.