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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 16: Ruke Orhorhoro #98 and Kentavius Street #93 of the Atlanta Falcons celebrate a tackle against the Las Vegas Raiders during the first quarter in the game at Allegiant Stadium on December 16, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images)
The Chicago Bears and Atlanta Falcons quietly executed what could be described as an unofficial swap along the defensive line during the early stages of NFL free agency.
Within a 24-hour window, the Falcons signed former Bears defensive tackle Chris Williams. Additionally, the Bears added veteran defensive lineman Kentavius Street.
While the two moves were not connected through a direct trade, the result effectively reshaped depth on both teams’ defensive fronts.
Chicago moved first, agreeing to terms with Street as general manager Ryan Poles continued to address the defensive line during free agency.
The moves give both teams new rotational pieces while parting ways with players who recently contributed to their defensive fronts.
The sequence of moves essentially created an unusual free-agency exchange between the two teams.
Bears Add Veteran Depth With Kentavius Street
Chicago’s decision to sign Street adds an experienced defensive lineman. He has played in several defensive systems during his NFL career.
Originally selected in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers, Street has also spent time with the New Orleans Saints, Philadelphia Eagles andFalcons.
The 29-year-old appeared in seven games for Atlanta last season. He recorded 21 tackles, three tackles for loss and two sacks while playing 216 defensive snaps.
Street’s familiarity with Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen could play a role in his transition to Chicago. The two previously worked together when Allen served as head coach of the Saints during Street’s time in New Orleans.
Across his career, Street has appeared in 85 games with 10 starts while recording 10.5 sacks. His most productive season came in 2022 when he started all 17 games for New Orleans and finished with a career-high 29 tackles and 3.5 sacks.
The move may not drastically change the Bears’ defensive front on its own. However, it provides experienced depth as Chicago continues reshaping the unit this offseason.
Falcons Sign Former Bears DT Chris Williams
Not long after Chicago added Street, the Atlanta Falcons addressed their defensive line by signing Williams.
According to ESPN insider Adam Schefter, the Falcons agreed to a one-year deal worth $2 million with the former Bears defensive tackle.
Williams appeared in 14 games for Chicago last season. He recorded 14 tackles, one tackle for loss, one sack and two quarterback hits while serving primarily as a rotational interior defender.
The move also reunites Williams with Falcons general manager Ian Cunningham, who previously worked in Chicago’s front office before taking over Atlanta’s personnel department.
Originally entering the league as an undrafted free agent with the Indianapolis Colts in 2020, Williams has also spent time with the Kansas City Chiefs and Cleveland Browns.
With both teams looking to reinforce their defensive fronts this offseason, the Bears and Falcons ultimately ended up exchanging rotational defensive linemen, creating one of the more subtle storylines of the early free-agency period.