The Chicago Bears’ Aggressive Trade Maneuvers May Not Be Done

Ben Johnson said the intention was to win this year. GM Ryan Poles said he would work in tandem with Johnson on the approach this offseason. It appears the Chicago Bears brass have stuck to their statements. Before the new league year has even begun, the team has engineered two trades. One was for 28-year-old guard Jonah Jackson from Los Angeles and the other was for 32-year-old guard Joe Thuney from Kansas City. In the space of mere days, the Bears’ offensive line has taken a big step forward.

One would think the team is content with its acquisitions and is turning its focus to free agency next week. The legal tampering period starts March 13th. However, they might not be done yet. A source told SM that the Bears have quietly looked into the market for veteran tight end Michael Mayer. The 23-year-old was a former second-round pick in 2023. He had a promising rookie season but saw his playing time reduced last year due to the arrival of rookie phenom Brock Bowers and some rumored mental health issues.

He resumed playing later in the season, and the problems never resurfaced.

The Chicago Bears’ interest in Mayer is immediately apparent.

While most people nowadays look to the receiving ability first, that isn’t where he shines. Mayer showed at Notre Dame and in Las Vegas that he is a high-quality run blocker. His pass protection is also reliable. To top it off, he can catch, too. While not an explosive playmaker, he has the size and hands necessary to move the chains. Don’t forget Johnson wants to run the ball on offense. He needs guys who can help generate movement. Gerald Everett wasn’t that type of player, which is why the Chicago Bears cut him. A tandem of Mayer and Cole Kmet would give the offense some serious beef at tight end. Whether the Bears can land him is another story. Word is the market for Mayer is strong. It may prove too expensive.