Chicago Bears free agency 2021: Top 5 targets

4. Bears top free-agent targets — OT Russell Okung

Let’s stick with the offensive line, which was a major issue in Chicago last season. The Bears need to find upgrades at both tackle spots as the current tandem of Bobby Massie and Charles Leno was underwhelming to say the least.

Drafting an offensive tackle makes sense but Chicago should look to find a short-term fix on the left side. Trent Williams is the top option on the market but the Bears’ salary cap constraints may force them to take a flier on Okung, who is still a solid player when healthy.

The 32-year-old Okung missed nine games due to various injuries with the Panthers last season but looked productive when healthy. Okung made the Pro Bowl as recently as 2017 and would be a nice fit next to Daniels on the left side.

There are other suitable alternatives if Okung doesn’t fit in the Bears’ budget, including Alejandro Villanueva and Zach Banner. Either way, an offensive tackle should be high on Pace’s shopping list this winter.