The Chicago Bears have been very busy this offseason. As Ryan Poles and the front office looks to build a roster that can be a playoff contender, there are still intriguing free agents available on the market.
So far this offseason, the Bears have brought in quite a few new pieces.
Among the biggest moves were the trades to acquire Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney, as well as the signings of center Drew Dalman, defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo, and defensive tackle Grady Jarrett.
With Caleb Williams leading the way and an incredibly bright future ahead of him, Chicago is in a good place.
Speaking of the sleeper free agent options who are still on the market, there is on in particular who the Bears are being linked to.
Kristopher Knox of Blecher Report has linked Chicago as one of the best fits for free agent linebacker E.J. Speed.
"The Chicago Bears should also have some interest in Speed. Chicago's defense struggled against the run in 2024, finishing the year ranked 29th in yards per carry allowed and 28th in rushing yards allowed," Knox wrote. "New Bears linebackers coach Richard Smith held the same position in Indianapolis during both of Speed's campaigns as a full-time starter."
Speed is coming off of a successful tenure with the Indianapolis Colts. Over the last two years, he has taken his game to another level.
In 2024, the 29-year-old linebacker totaled 142 tackles to go along with an interception and five defended passes in 15 games. Back in 2023, he racked up 102 tackles, a sack, three forced fumbles, and four defended passes.
What would it take for the Bears to get him? Spotrac has projected that Speed will get a contract worth around $5.4 million yearly.
