Key Takeaways:
– The Chicago Bears GM, Ryan Poles, may add several players to his defensive line.
– A reunion might be in the cards for Poles and Rakeem Nunez-Roches, a player he helped draft while in Kansas City.
– Nunez-Roches could be an affordable addition and fill the vacancy left by Justin Jones.
– However, trading for Nunez-Roches would cost the Bears a Day 3 pick.
– Poles could potentially use the free agency route to bypass trading, saving the team its draft capital.
The Chicago Bears, led by general manager Ryan Poles, are examining bolstering their defensive line with strategic additions. Rakeem Nunez-Roches, a defensive tackle under contract with the New York Giants, is emerging as a probable and reasonable option for the team.
Poles to Reconnect with Nunez-Roches?
Chatter around a potential reunion between Poles and Nunez-Roches, whom he had previously helped draft back in 2015 during his tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs, is gaining momentum. Alex Shapiro from NBC Sports suggests the Bears’ new GM could bank on positional versatility and Nunez-Roches’ NFL experience from 118 games with 42 starts to strengthen the team’s defense.
Assessing DT Nunez-Roches’ Prospective Role with the Bears
The Bears, looking to assist second-year defensive tackles Gervon Dexter and Zacch Pickens, could use a player like Nunez-Roches. The defensive tackle could potentially take up the starting role vacated as a result of Justin Jones signing with the Arizona Cardinals during the offseason.
Following three seasons with the Chiefs, Nunez-Roches moved on to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, appearing in 68 games over five seasons. Known for his vital role in Tampa Bay’s 2020 Super Bowl run, Nunez-Roches later signed with the Giants last offseason, completing 26 tackles, half a sack and registering a quarterback hit in his first year with New York.
Weighing Trade Vs. Free Agency
While Nunez-Roches is an economical option, his acquisition would likely require the Bears to trade in a Day 3 pick, making this move tricky. Poles might consider forgoing any trading, opting instead to sign a free agent. This approach is supported by the belief that the Bears’ recent roster enhancements will make them an enticing choice for available free agents.
Reflecting on his successful tenure with Kansas City, Poles shared, “more guys really wanted to be there, which is always a good indication that you’re doing things the right way.” With substantial upgrades like quarterback Caleb Williams and wide receiver Keenan Allen joining the roster, the Chicago Bears could be trending in the right direction. Only time will reveal if a reunion with Nunez-Roches is in the cards for Poles and the Bears.