The Chicago Bears have kicked off the 2025 NFL offseason with a significant move: hiring Ben Johnson, widely regarded as the best head coaching prospect available. Johnson brings an innovative offensive philosophy that promises to energize the team’s approach. With this new direction in place, the Bears are now focused on assembling a coaching staff that can complement his vision and build a competitive roster. A key piece in this puzzle is the recent hiring of Dennis Allen as the defensive coordinator. His extensive experience and proven track record on the defensive side could be just what the Bears need to spark a turnaround for a unit that has struggled in recent years.
As the offseason heats up, the buzz surrounding potential free agent signings is growing. One name generating considerable interest is Chase Young. Adding this talented defensive end could be a game-changer for Chicago’s pass rush, a unit that has desperately needed a reliable source of pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Chase Young’s fit with the Bears is particularly compelling when considering Dennis Allen’s reputation as a defensive maestro. During his tenure in New Orleans, Allen transformed a struggling defense into one of the league’s top units. He took the Saints’ defense, which was once languishing near the bottom, and molded it into a top-seven defense, showcasing his ability to develop talent and maximize player potential. From 2017 to 2023, Allen’s defenses consistently ranked no lower than 14th in points allowed. Although he faced challenges as a head coach, his history as a defensive coordinator underscores his effectiveness and the significant impact he could make on Chicago’s defense.
Young’s addition makes strategic sense for the Bears, especially considering their recent struggles on the pass rush front. Last season, the team generated 142 pressures but could only convert that into 40 sacks—far from ideal. With Montez Sweat stepping up as the only reliable edge rusher, notching 5.5 sacks and 22 pressures, it’s clear that the Bears need to reinforce this area. Bringing in a player of Young’s caliber could lend the spark needed to elevate this unit’s performance.
Two significant factors illustrate why Chase Young could be the perfect addition for Chicago. First, the bond he shares with Montez Sweat, forged during their time with the Washington Commanders, provides a vital edge. Their established chemistry could translate seamlessly on the field, enhancing their collective impact in Chicago.
Second, Young’s performance in the past season stands as a testament to his capability to thrive within Allen’s defensive scheme. With seven sacks and 66 pressures to his name, Young demonstrated his knack for disrupting offensive plays while also contributing to run defense. Under Allen’s stewardship, he could unlock even more potential, precisely what the Bears need to bolster their pass rush and defend effectively against opponents.
As the offseason unfolds, the potential signing of Chase Young signifies a promising new direction for the Bears’ defense—one characterized by familiarity, developmental promise, and a clear intent to reshape a struggling unit into one that’s ready to compete. If the pieces fall into place, Bears fans could be on the brink of witnessing a defensive revival that brings renewed hope for the 2025 season.
