The Bears had a desperate need for defensive line help after they cut Julius Peppers. With Corey Wootton and Henry Melton set to hit free agency, the Bears needed new starters at 3 of 4 defensive line positions, in addition to fixing the complete lack of depth that showed last season. LaMarr Houston was one of the best defensive linemen available this off-season. A 2010 2nd round pick, Houston has been a well above average 4-3 defensive end in each of the last 3 seasons, grading out 19th, 9th, and 11th on Pro Football Focus among 4-3 defensive ends in 2011, 2012, and 2013 respectively.
Considering Michael Johnson got 43.75 million over 5 years with 24 million guaranteed, the 35 million over 5 years with 17 million guaranteed that Houston got is very reasonable. This is certainly better than the 42.5 million over 5 years with 20 million guaranteed that the Vikings gave to the unproven Everson Griffin. Houston will line up at Julius Peppers’ old spot and move inside to defensive tackles on passing downs, presumably with Shea McClellin moving down from linebacker to be a nickel rusher. This was a good get at a reasonable price.
Grade: A-
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