Bears free agent targets: Who are the top free agent targets for the Chicago Bears in 2023?

The Chicago Bears are a team that seems to be in a perpetual state of rebuilding, and the 2022 NFL season was no different. They started with a decent 3-4 run but closed out the year with ten consecutive losses to finish with a 3-14 record.

That record was good enough to earn them the number-one pick in the 2023 NFL Draft and a chance to either trade down or draft a franchise-altering prospect. So, here, we will be showcasing three top free agent targets the Bears could go for in 2023 - three players who could change the tide of a faltering franchise.

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Top free agent targets for Chicago Bears in 2023

#3 Daron Payne, DT, Washington Commanders

The Chicago Bears have one of the worst defenses in the NFL, which is a major reason they finished in last place.

The Bears had serious issues reaching opposing quarterbacks, which largely affected their ability to win games. As such, one of the main targets of their off-season is to get solid defensive tackles, either through free agency or the 2023 NFL draft.

As the soon-to-be Washington Commanders' free agent, Daron Payne ticks that box and is easily one of the most underrated defensive tackles in the league. Payne finished the 2022 NFL regular season with 11.5 sacks in 17 games, and he's one of the more durable players in his position.

Payne's addition would be great for the Bears, and he would add a great deal of steel to Chicago's defense.

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#2 Allen Lazard, WR, Green Bay Packers

There is only so much that Justin Fields can do with the current wide receiver options in Chicago, so the Bears should add players if they want to make the next step.

While few solid wide receiver prospects are in the market, a veteran pass catcher in Green Bay had a career season in 2022. That player is Allen Lazard, who has played all his career with Aaron Rodgers.

Lazard put up career numbers in all categories, such as catches (60), receiving yards (788), and games started (15). He's a proven deep threat and has the pace to burn when released by a decent throw. The Bears could add Lazard for depth while focusing on drafting another wide receiver in the 2023 NFL draft.

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#1 Orlando Brown Jr., OT, Kansas City Chiefs

Justin Fields spent more time on the floor than most other quarterbacks in the NFL, largely due to the feeble nature of his O-line.

There are fewer offensive tackles in the league better than Orlando Brown, so his addition should be a no-brainer. Brown has been a pro for five years and made the Pro Bowl a staggering four times.

Moreover, he is only 26, so it's clear that he has his best years ahead of him. His addition would be super timely for Justin Fields, as the franchise QB needs all the protection he can get.

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How did Chicago Bears perform in 2022 NFL season?

The Chicago Bears had an atrocious 2022 NFL regular season, as the NFC North team finished dead last in the league. The Bears had a league-worst ten-game losing streak to close the year, and they will hope for a much improved performance next season.

Few fans can look back at their 2022 season with a hint of pride, but at least Justin Fields looks like he's the real deal. All eyes will be on the Chicago Bears in the coming weeks, as they possess the first pick in the upcoming draft.