The Chicago Bears have kicked off the 2025 NFL offseason with an ambitious and strategic move by hiring Ben Johnson, widely regarded as the top head coaching prospect. With Johnson’s offensive philosophy now leading the charge, the focus shifts to filling out his coaching staff to build a well-rounded team. The hiring of Dennis Allen as defensive coordinator is particularly pivotal; his experience and success on the defensive side of the ball could very well be the catalyst for a major turnaround for a Bears defense that has struggled in recent seasons.
Now, the discussion of potential free agent signings is heating up, and one name that stands out is Chase Young. The addition of the talented defensive end could significantly bolster Chicago’s pass rush, which has been in dire need of more consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Why Chase Young Makes Sense for the Bears
As a defensive mastermind, Dennis Allen has a proven ability to transform struggling units into formidable defenses. His time in New Orleans is a testament to this. Before his arrival, the Saints’ defense was teetering at the bottom of the league. Yet, under his guidance, it emerged as a top-seven unit, showcasing a remarkable capacity to develop talent and maximize player potential. His defenses have consistently ranked no lower than 14th in points allowed from 2017 to 2023. While the head coaching role was a challenge for Allen, his history as a defensive coordinator speaks volumes about his effectiveness and the impact he could have on the Bears’ defense.
Chase Young’s fit with Chicago could be a match made in football heaven. The Bears are looking for more production from their pass rush, having generated 142 pressures but only managing to convert that into 40 sacks last season. Montez Sweat emerged as the only reliable edge rusher, collecting 5.5 sacks and 22 pressures. To shake off that inconsistency, adding a player of Young’s caliber is a strategic move that could pay dividends.
Two key factors underscore why Chase Young is an ideal target for the Bears. First, his history alongside Montez Sweat on the Washington Commanders provides a unique advantage. The familiarity and chemistry they developed during their time together could translate well on the field in Chicago, allowing both players to maximize their impact.
Second, Young’s performance this past season demonstrates his capacity to excel under Allen’s defensive scheme. He logged seven sacks, 66 pressures, and recorded key defensive stats that highlight his ability to disrupt opponents and contribute effectively to run defense. With Allen at the helm, Young could tap into even greater potential, addressing the Bears’ urgent need for a robust pass rush.
As the offseason progresses, the potential signing of Chase Young could signal a new chapter for the Bears’ defense, one that combines familiarity, developmental promise, and the drive to reshape a struggling unit into a competitive force. If everything aligns, the Bears could be on the brink of igniting a defensive resurgence that should have fans feeling optimistic about what lies ahead in the 2025 season.
