When it was reported late last night that there was a rumor in the league circles that the Chicago Bears were open to the defensive line Akiem Hicks, it left many fans in disbelief. Sure he is 31 years old and moving, he would free up $ 10.5 million in space for the 2021 season, but he still plays at a very high level and he is one of the most respected players in their dressing room.
But because the salary cap has dropped for the first time in the history of the ceiling, several teams have been forced to make unpopular decisions to get their finances in order.
The latest report from the Chicago Tribune’s Brad Biggs is that the Bears Hicks gave permission to investigate a trade.
If a deal is agreed, it is reported that Hicks wants a contract extension and an increase of his new team, which are two things that make the trade unlikely. Depending on how much money the Bears want to free up, it’s certainly possible that they could release Hicks – just as they plan to do with Kyle Fuller – but at the moment they seem to be in a comfortable place with the cap.
These difficult and unpopular decisions are what happens when you allocate so much salary sticking space on the defensive side after missing the quarter in the draft.
Keep it locked in on WCG as we keep an eye on the news and rumors surrounding the Bears-free agency.