Bears pursue low-risk defensive reinforcements amid structural concerns
The Chicago Bears have identified significant gaps in their defensive performance following a roster evaluation, opting for a low-risk acquisition of former first-round pick Marcus Davenport while simultaneously exploring trade options for Tampa Bay’s Vita Vea.
The Chicago Bears are set to sign former first-round pick Marcus Davenport to address critical deficiencies in their pass rush, a unit that recorded only 35 sacks last season and ranked 22nd in the NFL. General Manager Ryan Poles indicated the team would evaluate its roster before making moves, and the Bears have now identified a need for additional defensive help. Davenport, who has battled injuries since leaving the New Orleans Saints in 2022, is viewed as a low-risk gamble. The Bears are also reportedly enquiring about Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Vita Vea to address run defence issues.
CBS Sports senior reporter Matt Zenitz reported that the Bears are expected to sign Marcus Davenport, who visited the team on Sunday. General Manager Ryan Poles hinted at adding a pass-rusher during training camp in July, and the team has now acted on this need. The Bears made a call to the Buccaneers to check on Vita Vea, a disgruntled two-time Pro Bowler who requested a trade at the start of training camp.
Davenport’s most successful stint was with the New Orleans Saints from 2018 to 2022 under defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, who now holds the same position in Chicago. Bears head coach Ben Johnson is also familiar with Davenport, having spent the 2024 season together in Detroit. The Bears considered veteran pass-rushers like Jadeveon Clowney and Von Miller but opted for the lower-risk Davenport.
The Bears’ pass rush struggled significantly last season, recording only 35 sacks. Only two Bears players recorded at least five sacks last season: Montez Sweat with 10 and Gervon Dexter with 6. Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson ranked fourth on the team in sacks, highlighting the depth issues. The Bears’ defence surrendered an average of 134.5 rushing yards per game last season, the sixth-worst in the NFL.
Dayo Odeyingbo was signed last year to help the pass rush but missed the final nine games after tearing his Achilles. Davenport has missed 13 games with the Minnesota Vikings in 2023 and 24 games with the Detroit Lions over the past two seasons due to injuries. The Bears are now hoping that Davenport can stay healthy and contribute to a unit that requires immediate structural improvement.
