The Chicago Bears have created significant uncertainty after a flurry of moves before free agency. General manager Ryan Poles orchestrated a series of transactions that netted $44 million in salary cap space but also resulted in the departures of several key starters, including DJ Moore and Tremaine Edmunds.

Poles defended the strategy as necessary for sustained success, though the Bears weren't among the NFL's biggest spenders in free agency. The team traded for Garrett Bradbury to replace retired center Drew Dalman and signed safety Coby Bryant to a three-year, $40 million contract. However, they've lost four defensive starters to free agency, creating substantial holes.

The Bears' biggest needs remain edge rusher and defensive backfield help. While they explored trading for Maxx Crosby, the asking price of two first-round picks proved too steep. With their No. 25 draft pick, Chicago faces questions about whether to address defensive end or defensive tackle, while also considering cornerback options in a deep draft class.