NFC North Shakeup: Bears' Bold Move for Jeffery Simmons

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Chicago’s Defensive Move Raises the Stakes in the NFC North

Chicago’s trade with Tennessee for Simmons could shake up the NFC North. With Michael Parsons returning for the Green Bay Packers, the Bears have responded by adding a player described as the best defensive tackle in professional football.

The move shows that the Bears are all in. Ryan Pauls, once criticized for his ability to build a roster, has reshaped the team and could have Chicago positioned as a favorite to win the NFC.

The Bears are pushing their chips in on Ben Johnson and signaling that they already have enough offensive talent to score. The priority is improving a struggling defense that needs to make timely stops.

Defensive help is arriving across the division. Simmons joins Chicago, Parsons returns for Green Bay, and Branch returned for Detroit and recorded an interception. An NFC North once defined by offense is becoming stronger defensively.

Any of these teams could emerge as an NFC champion or even a Super Bowl champion. Dennis Allen also deserves credit for bringing Chicago’s defense together and implementing effective concepts during the opening part of the season.