Should the Chicago Bears sign EDGE Carl Lawson?

The Chicago Bears already have a handful of 2024 training camp practices in the books. The pass-rushing unit had a productive day during Monday’s practice. Montez Sweat, DeMarcus Walker, and Gervon Dexter were particularly effective in their mission to get after rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.

Despite the productive practice, which occurred with no pads on, questions are still looming over the Bears’ pass-rushing potential this season. They finished 31st in the league last season with just 30 sacks. A repeat performance would displease head coach Matt Eberflus and new defensive coordinator Eric Washington.

General manager Ryan Poles could still consider searching the free-agent market for potential upgrades. One potential veteran option is no more after the Miami Dolphins signed Emmanuel Ogbah earlier this week. Yannick Ngakoue remains available, but the Bears have shown little-to-no interest in re-signing him after he was ineffective last season.

One intriguing darkhorse option is Carl Lawson. Lawson was extremely impactful for the New York Jets throughout 2022 despite suffering a devastating Achilles injury in 2021. The former Auburn standout recorded 8.0 sacks and 49 pressures. In 2023, he was the victim of the Jets’ logjam at outside linebacker.

Lawson was also limited to just six regular-season appearances due to a back injury in 2023. He totaled just 101 defensive snaps all campaign long. Lawson’s three-year, $45 million contract with the Jets expired earlier this offseason.

The Bears have been thrilled to see their defensive line racking up pressures and “sacks” (non-contact) throughout the early portion of training camp. Poles, Eberflus, and even Washington would be silly to believe they have enough talent at the EDGE position, however. With Ogbah recently joining the Dolphins following Shaq Barrett’s retirement, the options are beginning to dwindle. Signing Lawson would be a worthwhile risk for the Bears.