Bears Called ‘Top Landing Spot’ For Ex-Colts Star Linebacker In Free Agency | Sporting News

Bears Called ‘Top Landing Spot’ For Ex-Colts Star Linebacker In Free Agency | Sporting News

June 11, 2024

The Chicago Bears already have had a fantastic offseason but there could be even more moves on the way.

Chicago has made moves left and right this offseason and already is a significantly better team on paper heading into the 2024 season. While this is the case, they still have over $22 million in cap space available and could use another boost on defense.

It’s unclear what their plan is, but the linebacker spot has been mentioned as an area that could be improved through free agency. It is expected that free agency will pick up again soon with June 1st behind us and the Bears were mentioned as one of the top landing spots for former Indianapolis Colts star linebacker Shaquille Leonard by NFL Trade Rumors’ Ethan Woodie.

“Former Colts (Defensive Coordinator) Matt Eberflus is the head coach in Chicago, and that connection could be enough to get a deal done,” Woodie said. “Eberflus was in Indianapolis for four seasons from 2018-2021. He was on staff when Leonard was drafted and coached the best seasons of Leonard’s career. Much of Eberflus’ defensive staff with the Colts is now part of the defensive staff for the Bears as well. Eberflus has even cited Leonard as the prototypical middle linebacker he looks for.”

Leonard is a three-time Pro Bowler and still is looking for his next opportunity in free agency. Chicago could use some help at linebacker and there clearly is a connection with Leonard. Why not take a chance on him with the remaining cap space?