Bears re-sign 5 exclusive rights free agents

On Wednesday the Chicago Bears announced that they have re-signed five of their six exclusive rights free agents; running back Ryan Nall, offensive lineman Alex Bars, tight end J.P. Holtz, inside linebacker Josh Woods, and outside linebacker James Vaughters.

News leaked about Nall’s return on February 25, and the 25-year old is expected to be in the mix for a reserve role and as a special teamer in 2021.

Bars, who will be entering his third year a a pro, played in all 16 games in 2020 with 8 starts, as well as starting the wildcard game against the Saints. He played all three interior position along the offensive line and has played tackle in the preseason.

Holtz has appeared in 30 games the last two years for the Bears with 8 starts, 7 of which came in 2019. In 2020 he was mostly used on special teams.

Woods has been primarily a special teamer during his two years in Chicago, although he did receive 46 snaps on defense a year ago.

Vaughters was in the regular rotation as the fourth edge in 2020 for the Bears, but he suffered a minor knee injury late in the season.

The lone ERFA that hasn’t been brought back is cornerback Michael Joseph, who was on injured reserve last season.

Do you guys think any of these returning free agents will make a leap in play for 2021?