Bears working out free-agent linebacker

The Chicago Bears are working out veteran linebacker Shaquille Quarterman on Thursday afternoon. ESPN’s Adam Schefter was first to report the news. With Bears veteran players reporting to training camp on Friday, it appears general manager Ryan Poles is weighing one final addition.

Bears are working out Jaguars free-agent linebacker Shaquille Quarterman today.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 18, 2024

Quarterman initially entered the league as a fourth-round pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2020 NFL Draft. He’s mostly been a reserve defender throughout his four seasons with Jacksonville. Quarterman played most extensively during his sophomore year in 2021, totaling 30 tackles. He remains a free agent after the Jags opted against re-signing him once his rookie contract expired.

The Bears are fairly well stocked at the inside linebacker position. Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards are returning as two high-end starters. Jack Sanborn is vying for playing time behind them. Depth players include sophomore fifth-round pick Noah Sewell, and second-year undrafted free agent Micah Baskerville.

If signed, Quarterman would likely push Sewell and Baskerville for a role on special teams.