Bears sign LB Jerrell Freeman, what are Falcons plans at LB?

Falcons fans who were hoping the team would sign a free agent middle linebacker this year have something else to be disappointed about this Saturday. Jerrell Freeman, formerly of the Colts, has now signed with the Chicago Bears.

Bears signed former Colts LB Jerrell Freeman to a 3-year contract.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 12, 2016

Ask any Falcons fan what some of the weaknesses on defense are and nearly all of them will focus first on the linebacking corps. After saying goodbye to Justin Durant and signing oft-injured Sean Weatherspoon, the Falcons linebackers don't appear to have improved at all. Though the Falcons were "linked" to both Jerrell Freeman and Danny Trevathan during free agency, it doesn't appear the team was going "hard" after these players as primary targets.

The team recently had former Rams LB James Laurinaitis in for a visit, but nothing has been worked out yet. The team also put the 2nd round tender on linebacker Paul Worrilow, and he is widely expected to play with the team again in 2016.

As a reminder - free agency technically lasts until the season begins and it's easy to get caught up in names without consideration for how they'll fit into the plans of the team. While Trevathan and Freeman looked to be upgrades, perhaps the coaching staff has other plans. There is a long time between now and the season, and more moves may be forthcoming.

Your thoughts on Freeman signing with the Bears?