NFL Rumors: Ben Johnson Wants Dolphins’ 112-Game Weapon After Beefing Up Caleb Williams’ O-Line

The Chicago Bears somewhat believe in the ‘old is gold’ concept, at least for some positions. Earlier, Ben Johnson’s team signed 29-year-old offensive tackle Joshua Miles. They even employed the 69-year-old Richard Smith as the team linebacker coach. But building up their 2025 roster hasn’t ended yet. Chicago has several other positions to focus on as free agency rapidly approaches. And they did one recently!

About a day ago, Bears beat reporter Dan Wiederer speculated, “I won’t be surprised if the Bears work toward addressing some of their TE holes/depth with veteran Durham Smythe, released by the Dolphins last month.” Smythe has been a veteran player in the league for seven seasons since 2018. In total, he has played 112 games in his NFL career with the Miami Dolphins. But…

On Valentine’s Day 2025, the Phins released Smythe, allowing him to enter the free agency market. But as per the latest reports, the Wiederer speculations are turning out to be true. According to NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler on X, “The #Bears are indeed targeting free agent TE Durham Smythe, per sources.” He also pointed out an interesting fact, saying, “Seven-year Dolphin overlapped with Ben Johnson in 2018.”

To the people who are unaware, Smythe played under Ben Johnson in 2018. This was when the Bears HC became Miami‘s wide receivers coach. This partnership would be advantageous for both parties as they are familiar with each other. In addition, this similarity would help in understanding the system efficiently.

Last year, Durham Smythe finished the regular season with nine catches for 53 yards in total for 17 games. Yes, it’s not really pleasing. But we also can’t deny his 2023 performance, where he caught 35 receptions for 366 yards in 16 games. That was his best performance in his NFL career.

So, now that Ben Johnson might consider acquiring him from free agency, this 29-year-old veteran will help starting tight end Cole Kmet. Hence, it remains to be seen when Smythe joins the Bears’ facility. Until then, the HC will continue operating to build the team’s O-line.

Ben Johnson is bolstering the offensive line depth with two new updates!

The Bears are making moves – significant ones. Just days before free agency, they pulled off not one but two crucial trades to bolster Caleb Williams‘ offensive line. First, Ben Johnson’s team struck a deal with the Rams, sending a sixth-round pick for Jonah Jackson. In addition, they decided to take on his full contract, worth around three years and $51 million.

Now, that’s a hefty price, but they believe he’s worth it.

Then, let’s talk about the next big update! In less than 24 hours, Ben Johnson’s franchise dropped another bombshell. The Bears traded a 2026 fourth-round pick to the Chiefs for All-Pro lineman Joe Thuney. Being a veteran player, Thuney is a proven leader, a champion – someone who knows how to protect his quarterback.

That’s what he tried to do for the Chiefs this season. Although he couldn’t do much in the Super Bowl, his efforts cannot go unnoticed.

Hence, with these moves, Chicago isn’t just tweaking its roster – it’s making a statement for 2025. Free agency and the draft are around the corner, and Ben Johnson’s team is likely gearing up for something big!