Three Upcoming Free Agents Fans of the Chicago Bears Should Pay Special Attention to Super Bowl 59
As the Chicago Bears continue to build for the future, they’ll be keeping a close eye on upcoming free agents who could help elevate the team. With Super Bowl 59 fast approaching, the focus will shift from the 2024 season to the offseason, where the Bears can address key areas of need through free agency. Here are three players who will be featured in the big game and could be significant targets for the Bears as they look to improve their roster in 2025.
1. Javon Hargrave – Defensive Tackle (Philadelphia Eagles)
Team: Philadelphia Eagles
Position: Defensive Tackle
Status: Pending Free Agent
Javon Hargrave has been a force on the defensive line for the Philadelphia Eagles, and his performance in Super Bowl 59 could make him one of the most sought-after free agents in the offseason. As a dominant interior defensive presence, Hargrave has been excellent at getting to the quarterback and stopping the run, making him a perfect fit for a Bears defense that needs to improve in both areas.
Hargrave’s ability to collapse the pocket from the inside and provide consistent pressure makes him a game-changer. The Bears have struggled to generate consistent pressure from their defensive line, and adding a player like Hargrave could help alleviate some of that pressure. The Bears already have some young talent in Khalil Mack and Roquan Smith, but pairing those players with a dominant defensive tackle could help take the defense to the next level.
Given that the Bears will have significant cap space, adding a high-profile free agent like Hargrave could help solidify their defensive front for years to come.
2. Mike Gesicki – Tight End (Miami Dolphins)
Team: Miami Dolphins
Position: Tight End
Status: Pending Free Agent
The Bears’ tight end position has been a major point of weakness in recent years. While they have tried to make do with options like Cole Kmet, they still lack a game-changing threat at the position. Enter Mike Gesicki, who has become one of the more reliable receiving tight ends in the NFL during his time with the Miami Dolphins. Gesicki is known for his athleticism, ability to make plays downfield, and ability to create mismatches against slower linebackers or smaller defensive backs.
Gesicki’s skills as a vertical threat could be a perfect complement to Justin Fields, who has shown a preference for attacking the intermediate and deep parts of the field. With the Bears looking to improve their offensive weapons for Fields, Gesicki would be a valuable addition, providing a big-body target and someone who can stretch the field.
In Super Bowl 59, Gesicki’s performance could further elevate his status in free agency, but it’s already clear that the Bears could use a versatile weapon at tight end. If the Bears are serious about helping Justin Fields take the next step, adding a top-tier receiving tight end should be a priority. Gesicki could be that missing piece.
3. James Bradberry – Cornerback (Philadelphia Eagles)
Team: Philadelphia Eagles
Position: Cornerback
Status: Pending Free Agent
The Chicago Bears have been in need of a true shutdown cornerback to anchor their secondary. James Bradberry, a key member of the Eagles’ Super Bowl-bound defense, could be exactly what the Bears need to solidify their cornerback room. Bradberry has been a standout performer for the Eagles, known for his ability to match up against top receivers and make plays on the ball. His skill set allows him to lock down receivers while also contributing to turnovers, making him one of the most valuable cornerbacks available in the 2025 free-agent class.
The Bears’ secondary has been inconsistent, with Jaylon Johnson showing flashes of potential but still needing a reliable partner across from him. Bradberry’s experience, ball skills, and ability to lock down receivers in critical moments make him an excellent option to add stability to a young defense. His presence would elevate the overall play of the secondary, allowing the Bears’ defense to be more aggressive and effective against passing attacks.
With Justin Fields and the offense still developing, the Bears will need a strong defense to keep them competitive in 2025. Bradberry could be the player to elevate their defensive backfield and help them compete with top-tier quarterbacks and receivers in the NFC.