The Chicago Bears are looking at adding a veteran linebacker for Matt Eberflus’ defense.
According to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, the Bears hosted former Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Anthony Hitchens for a visit on Thursday.
This is the first free agent visit for Hitchens this offseason, and it makes sense considering his ties to both general manager Ryan Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus.
Hitchens played under Eberflus for four seasons with the Dallas Cowboys from 2014-17. Hitchens then signed a five-year, $45 million contract with the Chiefs, which is where the Poles connection comes into play.
Hitchens joined the Chiefs in 2018, where he went on to have a career year with 135 tackles. Last year, Hitchens had 80 tackles and an interception in 15 games. He was key in their Super Bowl LIV run just a few years ago.
#Bears brought in veteran LB Anthony Hitchens for a visit on Thursday. Hitchens played under coach Matt Eberflus when he was in Dallas.
— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) April 8, 2022
The Bears have a need at linebacker alongside star Roquan Smith. With the transition to a 4-3 defense, that leaves two vacant starting jobs alongside Smith.
Chicago signed Nicholas Morrow earlier in free agency, and he figures to assume one of those starting roles. If Hitchens signs with the Bears, he’ll have a knowledge of the defense Eberflus runs.
