3 Teams the Bears Just Screwed by Re-Signing Danny Trevathan

Chicago Bears linebacker Danny Trevathan had to miss the latter part of the 2019 season due to an elbow injury. Still, for the nine games he played in, he averaged 7.8 tackles per game, and continued to be a productive starter on defense. He was once an attractive option for any NFL team with serious linebacker needs in free agency this offseason, but that ship has sailed.

NFL insider Ian Rapoport says the Bears have agreed to a three-year, $21.75 million deal to keep the 'backer in his current home. Following his pay day, these teams are going to have to settle for someone else.

3. Philadelphia Eagles

Former Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nigel Bradham / Steven Ryan/Getty Images

The Philadelphia Eagles recently saved some money by cutting Nigel Bradham, but in losing him, they also lose some spark in the middle of their defense. They need a new linebacker to replace Bradham, and Danny Trevathan would have been a perfect fit and an improvement.

2. Baltimore Ravens

Former Baltimore Ravens linebacker C.J. Mosley / Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Prior to the 2019 season, the Baltimore Ravens let C.J. Mosley walk. Mosley went to four Pro Bowls in five seasons, and he was arguably the centerpiece of the Ravens defense. With the Ravens' offense firing on all cylinders at a clip that few can keep up with, a more dominant defense would make them an even more formidable force in the NFL. With Trevathan's re-signing, the door is shut on this solution.

1. Cincinnati Bengals

Former Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Malik Jefferson / Michael Hickey/Getty Images

The Cincinnati Bengals allowed the most rushing yards in the league last year. They allowed the 12th most passing yards. They also lost the most games. The Bengals need a lot of help, and on defense, it starts in the middle. They've tried to draft several linebackers in the past decade, from Sean Porter in 2013 to Malik Jefferson in 2018. None of them have worked out. They need a linebacker more than nearly any other team in the league, and considering they seem predestined to draft Joe Burrow first overall, the rookie class isn't going to be a certain victory for them. That's why Danny Trevathan would have been a perfect solution. Oh well.