The Chicago Bears snuck their way into the Wild Card Round with an 8-8 record. Predictably, the New Orleans Saints showed them the way out as quickly as they got in.

This current Chicago team continues its proud tradition of having a great defense, anchored by the likes of former Defensive Player of the Year and four-time All-Pro Khalil Mack. For a team that had a decent finish, the Bears sure do have a lot of holes, especially on the offensive side.

Former Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz going to the Indianapolis Colts was a major blow to Chicago, as they were pegged as a possible destination. Last season, fans had to endure the combination of Mitch Trubisky and Nick Foles playing under center. The former has accuracy concerns, although he does have good mobility. Meanwhile, the latter finished with 10 touchdowns and eight interceptions.

If the Bears can't get Wentz, then chances are no desirable signal-caller would want to play for them. Their best bet is to address the position in the upcoming draft. This would be challenging since they are picking 20th overall. Their best-case scenario would be Mac Jones of Alabama sliding all the way down to them.

They've also been heavily linked to Seahawks star Russell Wilson, who has voiced that the Bears are a place he wouldn't be opposed to playing. But, it remains to be seen who this organization will bring in as a new quarterback.

Chicago has one of the worst salary cap situations as they are expected to be $6,989,053 over the cap. 

Below are two free agents the Bears would be better off not signing.

Trent Williams, OT

Williams had a huge, bounce-back year in 2020, after missing the whole season prior due to health concerns. He was voted into the Pro Bowl yet again and is a versatile piece in the offense. Williams plays effectively regardless of the scheme and has that mean streak that coaches love to see in the trenches. With his playing style, Williams should be able to have elite production even as he gets up there in age. He provides an immediate upgrade to any offensive line in the league, while still having staying power to help the team moving forward.

The only reason Williams is listed here is the cap hit. A player of his caliber would command a pay of around $18,500,000 per season for multiple years. While he would certainly protect the quarterback and open holes for the ground attack, his contract will limit the Bear's flexibility. Also, Chicago still does not have that signal-caller for Williams to block for.

It was painful watching the Bears offensive line as a unit last season and it would be wiser if they used their resources on solid players on team-friendly contracts. After all, it takes more than a star, left tackle to keep a quarterback safe. More affordable options include Rick Wagner and Matt Feiler. Both players may have relatively low ceilings, but they can bolster one of the most lackluster lines around. Each of these tackles could come to the Windy City for about $5,000,000, which leaves much room for the front office to address other positional needs.  

T.Y. Hilton, WR

It is going to be tough if Allen Robinson departs in free agency. The man has the uncanny ability to produce big-time numbers even with inconsistent quarterback play. Just imagine the numbers he would be able to put up if he had even a top 10 signal-caller throwing the ball towards him.

There is still a chance the Bears slap the franchise tag on him and keep him in Chicago. However, this may be the case of it being better to just pull off the Band-Aid quickly. If the Bears use the franchise tag on Robinson, this will undoubtedly frustrate the talented wideout and while he does not seem like the type to hold out, this may affect him on the field. Also, doing this move will put a real strain on the team's cap.

While there are no affordable options in free agency, that could come close to replicating Robinson's production, the team might be able to snag some bargains. Hilton is not one of those players. He has more name recognition than most free agents, but he is no longer that same deep threat that can take the top off a defense. His numbers have significantly dropped off these past two years, but Hilton has adjusted his game accordingly and does his damage in shorter routes.   

It would be better for the future, franchise-saving quarterback of Chicago to have a receiver he can grow together with. At age 31, the quarterback Hilton grew with – Andrew Luck is not even in the league anymore. 

Curtis Samuel would be a safer option and provides versatility in the run game. He is a younger and cheaper alternative to Hilton for the Bears.