Chicago Bears plan to visit free agent defensive lineman Akiem Hicks on Friday

Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network is reporting that the Chicago Bears are planning to fly in free agent defensive lineman Akiem Hicks for a visit on Friday. Hicks has been a rumored target of the Bears because he fits an obvious need for them, plus current Chicago general manager Ryan Pace was working for the New Orleans Saints when they drafted Hicks in the 3rd round of the 2012 NFL Draft.

He played his college ball at the little known University of Regina in Saskatchewan, Canada. He had a fantastic showing at the East West Shrine game that put him on scouts radar.

Hicks was traded to the New England Patriots last season where he appeared in 13 games as a reserve. Prior to the trade he appeared in 48 games with 33 starts for the Saints. He had 3 sacks and he returned a fumble for a TD last year with the Pats. Hicks is 6'5", 324 pounds and a perfect for for 5 technique defensive end in the Bears system.

Would you like to see Hicks as a member of the Bears?