Bears Reunite With Former Standout After Surprise Release

Chicago Bears Have a Chance to Bring Back Former Star After Surprise Release

The Chicago Bears have not made significant moves to bolster their roster since the NFL trade deadline,

except for parting ways with running back Khalil Herbert. While some fans had hoped for additions to strengthen the offensive line or enhance the pass rush,

the Bears front office chose to keep the current roster intact as they enter the second half of the season.

However, the team now has an unexpected opportunity to improve their defensive line, thanks to a recent move by the Baltimore Ravens.

On November 7, 2024, the Ravens made the surprising decision to waive defensive end Yannick Ngakoue,

a former Bears player who had spent the 2023 season in Chicago. According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, the Ravens plan to bring Ngakoue back to their practice squad if he clears waivers.

However, the Bears should consider claiming him and reuniting with the veteran pass rusher.

Ngakoue’s situation with the Ravens has been somewhat rocky this season. After a productive year with Chicago in 2023,

where he recorded four sacks, six tackles for loss, and seven QB hits, Ngakoue signed with the Ravens during the offseason.

Unfortunately, his role in Baltimore has been limited, and he has played in only five games, logging just 76 defensive snaps.

Behind key defensive players like Kyle Van Noy, Odafe Oweh, and Tavius Robinson, Ngakoue found himself relegated to a smaller role in the Ravens’ defensive rotation.

In contrast, the Bears’ pass rush situation remains less crowded. Montez Sweat is currently the standout edge rusher, and DeMarcus Walker and Darrell Taylor have had solid seasons as well.

However, the depth behind them is questionable, and this is where Ngakoue could step in and provide valuable support. With his prior experience in the Bears’ defensive system, Ngakoue could quickly contribute and add much-needed depth to the Bears’ defensive line.

Ngakoue’s familiarity with the Bears’ style of play could make him an immediate asset to their defense. His skill set aligns well with the team’s needs, and his experience as a reliable pass rusher would be beneficial in helping to keep the pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Adding Ngakoue would also provide some insurance if injuries or fatigue start to affect the team’s current pass rushers as the season progresses.

Although the Ravens are hoping to bring Ngakoue back onto their practice squad, the Bears should not miss the chance to strengthen their defensive unit with a player who has proven he can perform at a high level in Chicago’s system. If Ngakoue clears waivers, the Bears could look to make a move and bring him back into the fold.

For the Bears, this is a crucial moment to assess whether adding Ngakoue would help solidify their defense as they continue to pursue a playoff spot. With the season heading into its critical stages, every decision can have a major impact on their ability to compete in the NFC. Adding another veteran pass rusher like Ngakoue could tip the scales in their favor.

As we move deeper into the season, the Bears will need to continue evaluating opportunities to improve their roster, and Ngakoue’s availability could be a game-changer. Whether or not the Bears choose to act on this opportunity remains to be seen, but it’s certainly a situation worth watching closely.

The Bears have been making strategic decisions all season, and while the trade deadline has passed, the waiver wire is still a viable avenue for improvements. Ngakoue’s potential addition could help provide the spark the team needs in the second half of the season, especially as they look to make a push for the playoffs.

In conclusion, the Bears now find themselves in a position where they could re-sign a familiar face in Yannick Ngakoue after his release from the Ravens. With a need for additional pass-rush depth, this move could prove beneficial in strengthening the defense for the remainder of the 2024 season. The Bears’ front office will need to act quickly if they want to take advantage of this opportunity.