Former NFL tight end Clay Harbor is urging the Chicago Bears to pursue free agent pass rusher Za’Darius Smith, suggesting that his addition could significantly enhance their defensive capabilities. Harbor boldly predicts that Smith could outperform the Bears’ current top pass rusher, Montez Sweat, in terms of sacks if he joins the team.
Harbor, now an analyst for CHSN and a Bears fan from Libertyville, Illinois, made his case during the May 23 episode of “Big Pro Football Show.” He highlighted Smith’s impressive performance in the second half of the previous season with the Detroit Lions, where he recorded four sacks in the last eight games, totaling nine sacks for the season, which would have led Chicago. He pointed out that Smith ranked 23rd in pass rush grade according to Pro Football Focus (PFF), whereas Sweat was 44th. Additionally, Smith’s total of 57 pressures outstripped Sweat’s 49.
Although Harbor acknowledges that at nearly 33 years old, Smith isn’t a long-term solution for the Bears, he believes the pass rusher still has plenty to offer. Since entering the NFL in 2015 as a fourth-round draft pick of the Baltimore Ravens, Smith has enjoyed a successful career. He made a notable impact with the Green Bay Packers in 2019 and performed admirably for the Lions, particularly during a season afflicted by injuries to key players like Aidan Hutchinson.
For the Chicago Bears, securing Smith could address a pressing need for stronger pass rushers, as the team has faced challenges in pressuring opposing quarterbacks in recent seasons. Smith, with his extensive experience in the NFC North, offers familiarity with rival dynamics. His consistent performance over the last few years, having missed only one game per season, adds to his appeal, along with the possible leadership he could provide to a young defensive line.
Financially, a short-term deal might suit both parties, allowing Smith to contribute significantly to the Bears’ defense while simultaneously securing a meaningful role on a team in need of veteran presence. The addition of Smith could not only bolster Chicago’s pass rush but also bring a sense of optimism as they look to revamp their defense ahead of the upcoming season.