Chicago Bears: Days 2 and 3 Grades For 2017 NFL Free Agency

The first day didn’t go exactly as planned for the Chicago Bears in 2017 NFL free agency. The trick though is not to let it cripple the overall plan.

There are always contingencies worth turning to. GM Ryan Pace has consistently demonstrated that method of thinking. Sure enough in days two and three of the action, the Bears came out firing. Their attack pattern demonstrated a disciplined and well-researched approach. In the end they were by far the most active team in the second wave of free agency. How did they do? Here is a quick breakdown of each signing with a final letter grade.

Signed Prince Amukamara (CB)

The Bears secondary was a wreck last season due to injuries and lack of depth. Despite having a strong front seven and great coaching, they were picked on a lot by upper echelon QBs. Finding more dependable cover men was a top priority going into this offseason. Amukamara at least brings that higher level steadiness. He’s not much for turnovers, but won’t get burned too often. Grade: B

Re-signed Connor Barth (K)

The pickings for a good kicker this year were slim. Connor Barth was far from ideal last season for the Bears but towards the end of the year he seemed to settle down. He’s generally good for accuracy inside 40 yards and has experience. That being said, it’s hard to imagine the team will just roll with him in 2017. Competition can be expected at some point before training camp, via the draft or undrafted free agency. Grade: C-

Re-signed Johnthan Banks (CB)

This was an intriguing pickup for the Bears off the waiver wire late last season. Banks is a former 2nd round pick of Tampa Bay who started out so well his first two years. Unfortunately a scheme change on defense led to a regression on the field and he’s been searching for a new home since. Chicago boasts just the kind of man cover system his long, physical frame was made for. Grade: B

Re-signed Christian Jones (LB)

He may never be the hidden gem on defense that many hoped when he was signed as an undrafted free agent. Still, Jones brings valuable depth at both inside and outside linebacker. In addition he’s proven himself a standout on special teams. Players like this never really get the attention or credit they deserve, but they still bring value to the team. Grade: C+

Signed Marcus Cooper (CB)

One thing that stood out about 2016 for the Bears cornerbacks was how awful they were at forcing turnovers. Cre’Von LeBlanc, a rookie undrafted free agent, led the team with two interceptions. The addition of Marcus Cooper, a Pro Bowl alternate for Arizona last year, will change that. He had four interceptions last season and is just 27-years old. Grade: A

Signed Kendall Wright (WR)

It almost seemed like fate that this was going to happen. Kendall Wright fell out of favor in the Tennessee Titans offense the past few years. He was never the same after Dowell Loggains was fired as offensive coordinator. So it was only natural the two seek each other out again in Chicago. He brings immediate speed and quickness to the offense, along with a major league chip on his shoulder. Grade: B+

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