Should the Bears sign a veteran defensive lineman before training camp?

The Chicago Bears have enjoyed a historically impressive offseason. New franchise quarterback Caleb Williams could make the Bears instant playoff contenders in 2024. The offensive supporting cast has been severely upgraded to include the likes of Keenan Allen, Rome Odunze, D’Andre Swift, and Gerald Everett.

The defense required less work, but general manager Ryan Poles didn’t neglect that side of the ball. Veteran safety Kevin Byard will add quality leadership, experience, and defensive backfield versatility. Depth safety Jonathan Owens was also added to support Matt Eberflus’ need to get smaller and faster on defense.

If there’s one area of the Bears’ roster that hasn’t received enough reinforcements, it’s the defensive line. The likes of Yannick Ngakoue, Rasheem Green, and Justin Jones departed the team this offseason. The only real arrivals have been rotational pieces such as Byron Cowart, Jacob Martin, and fifth-round pick Austin Booker.

It’s not enough for a defense that recorded a 31st-ranked 30 sacks last season. Poles should continue to explore opportunities to give Montez Sweat help. It’s precisely why Pro Football Focus has suggested acquiring a veteran defensive linemen before training camp marks its arrival.

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One last offseason move for each NFC team https://t.co/iLT61iX05h

— PFF (@PFF) May 8, 2024

“Calais Campbell could be a good role player for the Bears, too, given his versatility,” PFF wrote. “He has the experience on the edge and the interior and is still good enough as a run defender and a pass rusher to make an impact. In his 16th NFL season last year, he still managed to rack up 42 total pressures from 413 pass-rushing snaps.”

Campbell would be a terrific addition for the Bears. Campbell possesses inside-outside versatility and would move around Eberflus’ defense as needed. The aging playmaker may have to be convinced the Bears are legitimate postseason contenders. Having a generational rookie talent at quarterback in Williams could help give Campbell the push he may require.