2016 NFL free agency: 5 teams who should sign Malik Jackson

3) Chicago Bears

A reunion with former head coach John Fox seems like one of the more likely outcomes for Jackson this offseason. Jackson showed this season he can play in the 3-4 defense (which Chicago uses) and he would quickly help accelerate Chicago’s rebuilding process.

Fox and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio did a solid job in 2015, as the Bears defense ranked 20th in the NFL in points allowed despite looking like a much worse unit than that on paper. Fangio is an excellent coordinator, but Chicago simply doesn’t have enough talent currently on the defensive side, meaning there will have to be some changes this offseason.

While the Bears have a few holes to address, defensive line is arguably the team’s biggest need other than linebacker. Jarvis Jenkins and Mitch Unrein are both set to hit free agency, leaving the Bears with very little depth behind Will Sutton at defensive end.

Jackson would instantly provide a big upgrade for the run defense is particular, as Chicago struggled in that facet last year. If the Bears add a talent like Jackson, the defense would be heading in the right direction with promising second-year nose tackle Eddie Goldman and outside linebacker Pernell McPhee also around.

The Bears have plenty of money with around $60 million of cap space, and could set aside a large chunk for a big name like Jackson. Chicago may not contend in 2016, but a Jackson signing could look very wise two or three years down the line

Next: Oakland Raiders