More Than Just Savings: Bears’ Potential Gains from Free Agent Safeties

Draft analysts suggest teams seeking a safety should explore free agency this year, citing the depth of available talent. NFL media’s Daniel Jeremiah also points out that the cornerback depth in the upcoming draft significantly outweighs the safety talent. This trend reflects the league’s increasing emphasis on passing and, consequently, on strong cornerback play.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue a free agent safety is subjective, hinging on team needs and cost considerations. The Chicago Bears could benefit from adding a safety for depth and future security, given Kevin Byard’s age (32 this season) and Jaquan Brisker’s concussion history. They also have Elijah Hicks, who performed well as a replacement for Brisker last season.

If the Bears are not anticipating a decline in Byard’s performance or significant concerns about Brisker’s health, a low-cost developmental safety might be a more prudent approach, potentially through the draft.

While the draft pool for safeties may be less appealing, with only a few safeties ranked highly, the free agent market offers proven NFL talent. Pro Football Focus rankings highlight this disparity.

However, the salary cap is a crucial factor. The Bears must carefully manage their spending and prioritize positions of greater need, such as the offensive and defensive lines. Overspending on a free agent safety, as they did with Eddie Jackson five years ago, could hinder their ability to address other pressing needs.

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