Chicago Bears free agency 2021: Top 5 targets

2. Bears top free-agent targets — LB Jarrad Davis

The biggest defensive hole that the Bears have to fill is at inside linebacker. Roquan Smith has developed into a rising star but the spot next to him could use an upgrade.

Danny Trevathan played there last season and was fine but Chicago could take a big swing by snagging Davis away from division rival Detroit. Davis fell out of favor with the Lions’ coaching staff last season, starting just four games, but he still recorded 46 tackles and has a ton of upside at age 26.

Chicago would really benefit by plugging Davis in next to Smith, giving them a very solid pair of linebackers to help anchor the middle of their defense. There could be a bidding war for Davis, however, since new Lions’ head coach Dan Campbell wants to bring him back and other teams could get involved.

Other potential fits for this spot could include Avery Williamson or Denzel Perryman on short-term deals, but the home-run move would be going for Davis. This should be a bigger swing for Pace and one that the Bears really should try and make.