Chicago Bears to Sign Marcus Davenport for Defensive Boost
The Chicago Bears are preparing to sign Marcus Davenport, a former first-round pick, to strengthen their pass rush ahead of the upcoming season. This decision follows general manager Ryan Poles' indication during training camp that the team was looking to add a pass-rusher.
Davenport, selected 14th overall by the New Orleans Saints in 2018, has faced challenges in his career, including injuries that limited his playtime. After spending the last two seasons with the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions, where he missed a total of 24 games, the Bears are hopeful he can contribute to a pass rush that ranked among the worst in the NFL last season.
The Bears recorded only 35 sacks in 2025, and with the return of Dayo Odeyingbo from injury, they are looking to improve their defensive performance. Davenport's previous success under Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen in New Orleans, where he achieved a career-high nine sacks in 2021, gives the team optimism. Additionally, the Bears have shown interest in bolstering their defense further by inquiring about a potential trade for Vita Vea from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
