Chicago Bears 2019 Mock Offseason: Stretching the dollars
By Erik Lambert
Free agency:
Kenny Vaccaro (S) – 2-year, $5 million ($2 million guaranteed)
The Bears made their choice by keeping Callahan and allowing Amos to walk. This means they have to find a way to fill that void at strong safety next to Eddie Jackson. Pace has deep familiarity with Kenny Vaccaro, having helped draft him in New Orleans. Nobody will say he’s a prime addition but he is a tough, aggressive player who can blitz and tackles well. He’s also reliable in coverage with a slightly better nose for the football that Amos.
Shane Ray (EDGE) – 1-year, $3 million
The former 1st round pick floundered over the past two years in Denver. Injuries had a lot to do with that but there were also scheme changes that he just never seemed to get comfortable with. He needs a change of scenery. Chuck Pagano has a knack for coaching up pass rushers and this could present Ray a strong opportunity. If he plays well on a one-year deal in Chicago, he’ll be 26 in 2020 with a far higher stock, allowing him to seek more money. It’s a win-win for both sides.
Rashaan Melvin (CB) – 1-year, $1.5 million
Pagano reaches out to a former player he coached up in Indianapolis. Melvin had his best season there with three interceptions in 2017. He turned that into a nice one-year deal in Oakland but seems to fall out of favor with the coaches there. Reuniting with his former coach would likely appeal to him and it gives the Bears extra depth at a key position.
Steve McClendon – 1-year, $2 million
Eddie Goldman was a beast in 2018, but the risk of injury is always present with somebody of his size. The Bears don’t have much depth to speak of at nose tackle. Given how vital that spot is to their run defense, it would be wise to bolster it with some cheaper help. Steve McClendon is 33-years old but he proved again last season he’s still one of the better interior run defenders in the league.