Latest Chicago Bears Move Shows Accountability Is Back
The Chicago Bears knew they had to make some changes to their roster by 2023. You don’t end up with the worst record in football and expect it to be scaled back. The big question was who on the list might get the ax at the end. The first of these answers came when Adam Schefter reported that the team is parting ways with defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad. This may come as a surprise to some. Muhammad was brought over from Indianapolis by head coach Matt Eberflus. No doubt it was hoped that he could increase the team’s passing rush.
It was a disaster. After posting six sacks for the Colts in 2021, Muhammad managed just one with the Bears in 16 games, including nine starts. This is a pathetic production for any player. It would have been easy for Eberflus to stand behind his man and give him another chance. That does not happen. Once again he and GM Ryan Poles keep the team on a higher level. Accountability is the watchword at Halas Hall. If you’re not performing for this team, don’t expect to stay long.
The Chicago Bears will not reward bad play.
Muhammad had another year of contract. The bears swim in the cap room. It’s not like they needed money. They could have held him in hopes that he could change things. nope Poland and Eberflus were not interested. It was obvious that the defensive end had nothing to offer them. His release creates $3.96 million in cap space and a roster spot that can go to someone who can help the team win. Last but not least, this was another clear indicator that Chicago will aggressively try to find edge rushers this offseason.
At the moment Trevis Gipson and Dominique Robinson are her only significant options. It won’t stop there. The Chicago Bears have enough money and draft capital to hoard the position. Maybe they’ll take Will Anderson in the 1st round. Or maybe they sign a veteran like Yannick Ngakoue or Zach Allen. It will come down to who you think will muster the effort and work ethic needed to make this defense a success. Don’t be surprised if they double in the draft. This is a good year for that.