Chicago Bears 2017 Roster Turnover: Are you confident in the Inside Linebackers?

Jerrell Freeman - Signed through 2018 - Freeman was the best Chicago Bears’ defender last season, racking up a team leading 110 tackles in only 12 games. Those 4 games missed to a PED suspension were a problem, but hopefully it was a 1 time oopsie moment and he’ll play in all 16 games in 2017.

Danny Trevathan - Signed through 2019 - Bears’ general manager Ryan Pace is confident that Trevathan will make a full recovery from the torn patellar tendon in his right knee, but he may need to start the 2017 season on the PUP list. The Bears will monitor his progress all offseason and make that call when the time comes.

Nick Kwiatkoski - Signed through 2019 - Kwiatkowski picked up 7 starts last year in relief of the injured Trevathan and suspended Freeman, and I thought he performed quite well. He has the speed and physicality needed to play the position, the next step is honing his instincts and familiarity with the scheme. Kwiatkoski will provide some solid insurance in case Trevathan isn’t ready to go week 1.

Christian Jones - Restricted free agent - Jones played ILB in 2015, he was moved to OLB before the 2016 season started, but he was moved back inside at times last year as well. His ability to back up at both spots, plus his ability to play special teams (11 total ST tackles in 2016) could lead to the Bears bringing him back.

Jonathan Anderson - Signed through 2017, then a RFA - Anderson may have more upside as a special teamer, where he made 5 total tackles in the 8 games (161 snaps) he appeared in. On defense, he picked up 2 tackles in 20 snaps.

John Timu - Signed through 2017, then a RFA - Timu played 185 snaps on defense last year and another 137 on special teams. He played in 11 games, while making 4 starts, finishing with 17 tackles on D and 2 more in the 3rd phase.

2017 OUTLOOK - Unless the Bears fear Trevathan won’t recover from his knee injury, I see no need to address this position this offseason.