The Chicago Bears opted not to make any major moves at the trade deadline, aside from parting ways with demoted running back Khalil Herbert. While some fans were hoping for reinforcements along the offensive line and in the pass rush rotation, the front office chose to maintain the current roster heading into the season’s second half.
However, this doesn’t prevent the Bears from exploring additions via waivers or free agency. A promising opportunity just appeared as former Bears defender Yannick Ngakoue was released by the Baltimore Ravens. According to Adam Schefter, the Ravens aim to re-sign Ngakoue to their practice squad, but Chicago should consider claiming him off waivers.
NFL News: Ravens Release DE Yannick Ngakoue
Ravens are waiving DE Yannick Ngakoue, per source. The Ravens want to re-sign him to their practice squad should he clear waivers.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 7, 2024
After playing the 2023 season with the Bears, Ngakoue joined the Ravens in the offseason. Last year, he contributed four sacks, six tackles for loss, and seven QB hits over 13 games. His role was limited this season in Baltimore, where he played five games and logged 76 defensive snaps, behind Kyle Van Noy, Odafe Oweh, Tavius Robinson, and David Ojabo.
The Bears, lacking depth in pass rush, could benefit from Ngakoue’s return. With Montez Sweat as their top edge defender and solid seasons from DeMarcus Walker and Darrell Taylor, their depth remains uncertain. Ngakoue, familiar with the Bears’ system, could be a strong addition to the defensive line.