ESPN uncertain about Bears' offseason moves at defensive line

[ASFN Admin]

The Chicago Bears were quite busy during free agency shoring up the trenches and adding some depth at skill positions.

The Bears were universally praised for their offseason moves, which included the trades for guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, as well as the signings of center Drew Dalman, defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo and wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus.

ESPN's Ben Solak ranked the most improved rosters following free agency, and it was a shock to see Chicago didn't even make the Top 10. In fact, they landed at 15th on this list. Not because of the offensive line improvements, which Solak praised, but questions about the money dedicated to the newcomers on the defensive line.

Just how much the defensive line renovation cost. I highlighted the Bears as my classic overpay team of the offseason, which is less of a criticism than it sounds. The nature of being a bad team with lots of money is that it ends up overpaying in free agency (see: every Patriots, Panthers and Jaguars deal this free agency). The problem is that big contract numbers set expectations that exceed the capacity of the additions.

While the offensive line certainly elevates from incompetence to competency with the Dalman/Jackson/Thuney triumvirate, I'm not as convinced the defensive line made as enormous a jump with Jarrett and Odeyingbo. Jarrett's best football is behind him; Odeyingbo is a good rotational player. Both got paid like impactful starters, and I'll believe that level of impact once I see it.

The Bears dedicated a combined $90.75 million between Jarrett and Odeyingbo, who each signed a three-year deal worth north of $42 million. While Jarrett, 31, is coming off a down year, he's still a productive interior defender who will bring leadership to the locker room. Meanwhile, Odeyingbo is just 25 years old and his potential has yet to be unlocked. But it's easy to understand why some are hesitant as he's yet to prove himself.

This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: ESPN uncertain about Bears' offseason moves at defensive line

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