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CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – SEPTEMBER 08: Caleb Williams #18 of the Chicago Bears stiff arms Jonathan Allen #93 of the Minnesota Vikings in the game at Soldier Field on September 08, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)

The Chicago Bears may have another intriguing option to address one of their biggest roster weaknesses.

With the defensive tackle position currently thin, a new report suggests the team could look toward a recently released veteran who spent the 2025 season inside the NFC North.

Bears insider Ben Devine shared on social media that Chicago could be keeping an eye on veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen if the price is right in free agency. Devine noted the Bears currently have only two defensive tackles on the roster, making the position an obvious area the front office must address this offseason.

Have heard the Bears may be looking at DT Jonathan Allen if the price is right in free agency. Only two DTs on the roster currently.

Allen became available after the Minnesota Vikings decided to release the veteran defender as part of a broader effort to reduce their salary cap commitments. The development has quickly sparked conversation about whether Chicago could take advantage of the situation.

Bears Have Clear Defensive Tackle Need

The Bears have already made several moves this offseason, but the defensive interior remains one of the roster’s most obvious holes. Chicago struggled to consistently control the line of scrimmage last season, particularly against the run.

The Bears allowed 134.5 rushing yards per game in 2025, ranking 27th in the NFL, while also surrendering 5.3 yards per carry, which ranked 30th in the league.

With only a limited number of true defensive tackles currently on the roster, the front office may be forced to explore the veteran market.

Devine’s report highlights how thin the depth chart is at the moment, something that could push general manager Ryan Poles to look for an experienced option.

Adding a player like Allen would immediately give Chicago a proven interior presence who has spent years playing at a high level in the NFL. Even if he is no longer at his peak, the Bears could view him as a short-term solution who can stabilize the position while younger players continue to develop.

The timing of Allen’s availability also matters.

Free agency is approaching quickly, and teams across the league are actively evaluating experienced veterans who could provide value on shorter deals.

Jonathan Allen Could Bring Bears Production and Veteran Experience

Allen entered the league as a first-round pick and quickly became one of the more productive interior defenders in football during his time with Washington.

He earned two Pro Bowl selections and built a reputation as a disruptive presence along the defensive line.

Although his most recent season in Minnesota did not reach the same level of production as his peak years, Allen still logged a full 17-game season and remained heavily involved in the Vikings defensive front. He finished the year with 68 tackles and several quarterback pressures while playing a significant number of snaps.

For Chicago, that level of durability and experience could be valuable.

A veteran like Allen would not only strengthen the defensive tackle rotation but could also help mentor younger linemen as the Bears continue reshaping their defense.

With free agency approaching in a few days, Allen is an under-the-radar name Bears fans may want to keep an eye on.

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