Potential Bargains

None of these guys are sure bets, but they shouldn’t cost much. They may have injury baggage or low production but the potential is there. The Bears hit on a player in this category last year with Tracy Porter. They missed with Alan Ball.

Tyvon Branch, S, Kansas City

Pros: Had a really strong finish, playing a lot for the Chiefs over the second half of last season. Has been a good player for most of his career, registering more than 70 tackles four times. Vic Fangio has had a lot of luck getting the most out of safeties. Branch won’t turn 30 until next December.

Cons: Played a combined five games in 2013 and 2014. Doesn’t have the kind of ball skills the Bears need with just five career interceptions. Was destroyed by Aaron Rodgers and the Packers last year. Might just be a rotational safety at this point in his career.

Jermaine Kearse, WR, Seattle

Pros: Good hands, athletic, solid after the catch and a good run-blocker. Only 25 and has never really been featured, playing for a running team. Has played well in a number of very big games.

Cons: Is there a reason they didn’t feature him? They threw more last year, but he still only had 49 catches. Doesn’t seem to get open consistently. Again, would be putting a lot of pressure on Kevin White to be the Number One right away.

Manuel Ramirez, G/C, Detroit

Pros: Has played both guard spots and center in his career. Started at multiple positions for John Fox and Dave Magazu in Denver and played well in their 2013 Super Bowl season.

Cons: Was a backup for the Lions last year, although he still played over 500 snaps. At 32 he isn’t a long-term option at either center or guard. Still not an ideal starter.

Rafael Bush, S, New Orleans

Pros: Was once considered one of the better up-and-coming safeties in the league. Was a key to New Orleans’ defensive resurgence in 2013. Very athletic with good range in coverage.

Cons: Finished the 2014 season on IR and only played 21 snaps in 2015 before tearing his pectoral. Has never been more than a third safety. Only has one career interceptions. Going to be 29 with significant injury history.