3 Unsigned Free Agents Who Would Upgrade Bears Offense

The Chicago Bears made a significant addition on the offensive side of the ball on Monday by signing free-agent running back D’Andre Swift to a three-year contract worth $24 million. Swift is now expected to lead the backfield in 2024. The first day of the legal tampering period welcomed a flurry of league-wide activity, but plenty of talented free agents remain available that could upgrade the Bears’ supporting cast. We’ve identified three potential targets who could join Swift on the new-look offense.

D.J. CHARK, WR, CAROLINA PANTHERS

Darnell Mooney remains available on the open market. Mooney is reportedly garnering interest from the Kansas City Chiefs, among other teams. Mooney isn’t expected to return to Chicago. The Bears should take a flier on a speedy like-for-like replacement a la D.J. Chark. A big-bodied vertical playmaker, Chark has an explosive career average of 14.5 yards per catch.

COLEMAN SHELTON, C, LOS ANGELES RAMS

The interior offensive linemen market exploded on Monday with the likes of guard Robert Hunt signing a five-year deal worth $100 million with the Carolina Panthers. The center market isn’t quite as crazy, but the Tennessee Titans gave Lloyd Cushenberry a record-breaking deal. Ryan Bates, who was acquired via trade, currently projects as the Bears’ new starting center. The Los Angeles Rams released Coleman Shelton before free agency began. Shelton is a versatile guard/center who spent two seasons (2019-20) with new Bears offensive coordinator Shane Waldron.

ADAM TRAUTMAN, TE, DENVER BRONCOS

The Bears could use an appropriate TE2 behind Cole Kmet. General manager Ryan Poles hasn’t showcased much interest in re-signing Robert Tonyan Jr. or Marcedes Lewis, understandably so. Adam Trautman is a capable backup tight end who could take in-line duties off Kmet’s plate. Swift would appreciate seeing Trautman operate as an extension of the offensive line. Trautman is also an underrated outlet against soft zone coverage.