Bears strengthen lines with three new players, sources confirm

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    The Chicago Bears are taking significant steps to strengthen their roster, focusing on enhancing their offensive line and defensive lineup. Reports indicate that the team is set to sign center Drew Dalman, defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, and edge rusher Dayo Odeyingbo, agreements purportedly made known by insiders familiar with the negotiations.

    These developments remain unofficial, as player signings with new teams only become official on Wednesday. However, details have emerged regarding the players’ contracts. Drew Dalman is reportedly agreeing to a three-year contract valued at $42 million, with $28 million guaranteed, leveraging his experience from starting 40 games over four seasons with the Atlanta Falcons.

    Grady Jarrett, recognized for his two Pro Bowl appearances during his ten-year tenure in Atlanta, is said to be signing a three-year contract worth $43.5 million, inclusive of $28.5 million guaranteed. Meanwhile, Dayo Odeyingbo will join the Bears on a three-year contract for $48 million, with $32 million guaranteed, after accumulating 16.5 sacks and forcing five fumbles across 61 games with the Indianapolis Colts.

    The Bears have made proactive trades to sharpen their offensive line, acquiring two-time All-Pro guard Joe Thuney and guard Jonah Jackson. These moves are explicit attempts to secure better protection for Caleb Williams, who was the No. 1 overall draft pick last year. Williams, awarded the 2022 Heisman Trophy for his performance at Southern California, threw for 3,541 yards, 20 touchdowns, and six interceptions in his rookie season. However, the team seeks to mitigate the quarterback’s exposure on the field after he endured a staggering 68 sacks.

    Moreover, Chicago is extending its relationship with safety Tarvarius Moore for an additional year. Moore, who made notable contributions on special teams last season, previously played for the San Francisco 49ers and had faced setbacks due to injuries, including missing the 2021 season with an Achilles injury and the subsequent year with the Green Bay Packers due to a knee injury.

    The Bears concluded last season with a 5-12 record in the NFC North, experiencing a ten-game losing streak followed by a season finale victory over Green Bay. Coaching changes took place as the organization chose to part ways with former head coach Matt Eberflus in late November, temporarily replacing him with Thomas Brown. Permanent leadership was reinstated with the appointment of Ben Johnson in January, known for his effective tenure as Detroit’s offensive coordinator.