A breakdown of the Chicago Bears' 2018 free-agent signings:
Bradley Sowell, OL
The Chicago Bears on Monday agreed to terms on a two-year deal with Sowell, who played this past season for the Bears. Here’s a closer look at the signing:
Grade: C. Sowell is veteran depth on the offensive line. He started at guard for the final two games last season, but the Bears mostly viewed Sowell as a reserve player in 2017. However, Sowell does have ample starting experience from his days with the Arizona Cardinals (12 starts) and Seattle Seahawks (nine).
What it means: The Bears have a hole at left guard following Josh Sitton’s departure. Sowell could have an opportunity to compete for a starting job based on how Chicago attacks the offensive line in free agency and the draft, but that’s not a guarantee. In addition, starting right guard Kyle Long is recovering from multiple offseason procedures, and there’s no telling when Long will be medically cleared to join the Bears’ offseason program. Sowell could fill in at right guard until Long is healthy.
What’s the risk: Not much. Sowell is a player the Bears know, and he has plenty of starting experience. The fact that Chicago gave him at two-year deal shows that he’s likely to earn a spot on the final 53-man roster -- health permitting. There’s not much downside to bringing Sowell back on a short deal.