As the Chicago Bears new-look offense has taken the spotlight this offseason, with a slew of new additions, the defense has been overlooked.
The defense had some big additions of their own, including the signings of veteran defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, edge rusher Dayo Odeyingbo, and the hiring of well-respected veteran defensive coordinator Dennis Allen.
Chicago also lost veteran linebacker Jack Sanborn in free agency, leaving open a hole alongside T.J. Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds for a new player to compete for the opportunity to have a bigger role. One of the players in consideration is Daniel Hardy, who has been a versatile defensive lineman for Chicago but could get an opportunity at linebacker.
Speaking to the media during OTAs this week, head coach Ben Johnson spoke about Hardy potentially getting a chance at linebacker.
“We’re finding out,” Johnson said. “He’s toggled a little bit between defensive line, and we’re going to experiment a little bit with him this springtime and in training camp, to see what he looks like dropping into coverage for us and what we’re asking our linebackers to do. I do know this, he’s got some pass-rush ability. He’s shown that over his time here, and that’s intriguing. But, we’re going to look to expand his skillset, as well.”
With Allen leading the way for the defense, he’ll have plenty of weapons to choose from and build around, including Hardy who has shown versatility in his young career. There is no question that there will be playing time and opportunities available for the taking under Allen, and Hardy is a player who could be a surprising contributor under this new coaching staff.
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