The Risky Gamble on a Former Star
The Chicago Bears signed veteran defensive end Marcus Davenport even though he has missed most of the last three years with injuries. Per Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports, the team expects to bring him in to boost their pass rush. This move is a high-stakes bet on a player who has appeared in only 14 games since signing a massive deal with Minnesota in 2023.
The Bears hope to get the player who was a starter for the Detroit Lions last year. Dennis Allen, the defensive coordinator for the Bears, previously worked with Davenport at the New Orleans Saints. He registered a career best 9.0 sacks in 2021 and 21.5 sacks total while under Allen. The team wants to see if he can return to that form.
A History of Missed Time
The numbers show why this signing is surprising. Since joining the Minnesota Vikings on a 1-year $13M deal in 2023, Davenport has appeared in only 14 games. From 2018 until 2022, while serving under Dennis Allen with the New Orleans Saints, he recorded 63 career appearances, which sharply contrasts with his recent activity. Allen oversaw a version of the player that was entirely distinct from any other tenure Davenport experienced.
This is his third different team in the last five years. From 2024 through 2025, his most recent team was the Detroit Lions. The Bears are taking a chance on an 8-year veteran with 43 career starts and 165 career tackles. It remains to be seen how much he has left in the tank.
Practice Updates and Other News
While the team looks at new faces, they also deal with fresh injuries. Reports are coming in that Kyle Monangai’s knee was hyperextended by contact during a non-contact practice. Monangai hyperextended his right knee, an injury confirmed by an MRI that caused him to exit practice early on Sunday.
The Chicago Bears have not yet confirmed anything about Monangai, but a source told ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler that the running back is expected to miss multiple weeks. The team has taken a day off from practice. This break comes as they try to get healthy while adding depth to a thin defensive line.
What This Means for the Defense
General Manager Ryan Poles is planning for a good problem to have. To this date, this marks the first significant move the Bears have executed at defensive end. It remains uncertain if additional changes are imminent. The front office knows the risks but sees a potential reward.
The team owns Ben Johnson’s offense now, which should lead to a faster start when the season arrives. Last Saturday, the Bears did not kill themselves with pre-snap penalties. That alone helps. Adding a pass rusher like Davenport could make the defense even more dangerous if he stays on the field.
The Falcons worked out veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith on Monday, according to reports. This shows the market is still active for pass rushers. The Bears made their move before other teams could grab the talent they wanted. The clock is ticking on Davenport’s career, but the Bears think they can turn back time.
Why did the Bears sign Marcus Davenport?
The team signed him to add a boost to their pass rush. He played for their defensive coordinator Dennis Allen in the past.
How many games has Davenport played recently?
He has played in only 14 games since 2023 due to injuries.
What happened to Kyle Monangai?
He hyperextended his right knee during practice and is expected to miss multiple weeks.
