INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (670 The Score) – Despite having more than $100 million in salary cap space at their disposal, the Bears intend to use a cautious approach in navigating the open market, general manager Ryan Poles said at the NFL Combine on Tuesday as he preached the importance of sustained success.
"We have players that are going to be in certain buckets for values," Poles said. "And this year, we have the ability to approach and go after a few of those guys. I think we're going to stay selective. We're going to have parameters that kind of match our values and our research.
"The key is we don't waste this opportunity and do something that's not sound, that doesn't allow us to have this flexibility in years to come. So, that's the balance – take advantage of now but still not trying to hurt you down the road."
Poles inherited a difficult salary cap situation in early 2022 and soon parted ways with edge rusher Khalil Mack, linebacker Danny Trevathan, defensive lineman Akiem Hicks and nose tackle Eddie Goldman, among others. Poles' vision was to start a multi-year rebuild by first establishing a more stable, flexible salary cap situation.
The Bears went 3-14 in 2022 and landed the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft. Entering 2023, Poles stated the Bears' goal is to contend and improve after setting a foundation. Despite having the luxury of money to spend, Poles knows well his need to use it wisely.
"You got to always be on your toes to adapt and adjust," Poles said. "But at the end of the day, I'll put it very simply. It's to improve our football team. Get as many guys on our team that can help us do what we're trying to do, which is win a lot of games."
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.
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