NFL Rumors: Chicago Bears could sign Darren Sproles to replace Devin Hester

Jan 4, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Darren Sproles (43) carries the ball during the first quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles during the 2013 NFC wild card playoff football game at Lincoln Financial Field. The Saints defeated the Eagles 26-24. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 4, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Darren Sproles (43) carries the ball during the first quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles during the 2013 NFC wild card playoff football game at Lincoln Financial Field. The Saints defeated the Eagles 26-24. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 4, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Darren Sproles (43) carries the ball during the first quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles during the 2013 NFC wild card playoff football game at Lincoln Financial Field. The Saints defeated the Eagles 26-24. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 4, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Darren Sproles (43) carries the ball during the first quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles during the 2013 NFC wild card playoff football game at Lincoln Financial Field. The Saints defeated the Eagles 26-24. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

The Chicago Bears are looking to improve their roster as a whole — with an emphasis on defensive positions — and this upcoming free agency period could be big for the team. One name that is a late arrival to the party is recently released Saints speedster Darren Sproles.

According to NFL scribe Dan Pompei, the Bears and Sproles could make a natural fit, especially considering they’re going to be losing Devin Hester to free agency this upcoming week.

Per Pompei:

"Sproles would be an outstanding fit for the Bears. He could replace Devin Hester as the return man. And he would be an excellent change of pace back who could contribute as a receiver out of the backfield. He is 30 years old, but he still played very well last year. I think Marc Trestman could do some really creative things with a player like Sproles."

While it makes sense for the Bears to add a speedy offensive threat like Sproles, Pompei points ut some flaws. From constraints that may be put on him in Marc Trestman’s offense to the issue of other teams offering more money, the idea of Sproles landing in Chicago isn’t a that high.

It’s not impossible though and will likely be something that is explored when the Free Agent tampering period opens.