The Chicago Bears have addressed a major roster need by securing their new starting center.
According to reports, the Bears wasted no time during the NFL’s legal tampering period, striking a deal with Atlanta Falcons center Drew Dalman for a three-year, $42 million contract. The move is a significant step in improving the Bears’ offensive line.
Interestingly, Dalman could have earned more money elsewhere, but opted to join the Bears, citing the appeal of playing for new head coach Ben Johnson and protecting promising young quarterback Caleb Williams in Chicago.
“(NFL Insider Jonathan) Jones reported the 26-year-old took less money to play under Johnson and block for 2024 first overall pick Caleb Williams,” CBS Sports’ Garrett Podel reported, citing information from colleague Jonathan Jones during live coverage of NFL free agency.
Dalman was widely regarded as the top veteran center available in free agency, having allowed just two sacks and 10 pressures in nine games last season.
He also posted the fifth-lowest 1-on-1 pressure rate (4.0%) among centers who played at least 200 pass-blocking snaps, according to Next Gen Stats.
Given his stellar performance, some analysts had expected Dalman to command $15 million or more annually on his next contract.
Instead, he chose to sign for $14 million per year with the Bears, making him the league’s second-highest-paid center, behind only Kansas City’s Creed Humphrey ($18 million).
The move is a win for Chicago, who is hopeful that their investment will help keep Williams upright after a disastrous rookie season in 2024, where he was sacked a league-leading 68 times, tying for the third-most sacks taken in NFL history.
While some of those sacks were due to Williams’ decision-making and the Bears’ underperforming offense, the offensive line’s struggles also played a key role.
Determined to protect their future star, Chicago’s front office have worked to reshape the offensive line’s interior.
They traded for All-Pro left guard Joe Thuney and presumptive right guard Jonah Jackson ahead of free agency. Then, within the first 20 minutes of negotiations, they added Dalman to complete the overhaul.
Together, the Bears have committed more than $30 million in cap space to revamp the front line – a significant investment aimed at ensuring Williams has better protection as he heads into Year 2.
What are your thoughts on Dalman taking less money to play with Caleb Williams and the Bears???
