Payne, who turns 29 in May, has been a steady run-stuffer but shows a recent decline in production. After a Pro Bowl 2022 season with 11.5 sacks, he has totaled just 11 sacks over the last three years, recording 3.0 in 15 games last season while adding solid run defense.
At about a $28 million cap hit for 2026, Payne is at a financial crossroads for Washington, especially with a limited draft portfolio. Teams can be wary of the price, but Washington could entertain a deal by absorbing some of his salary, while Chicago would still need to restructure to fit his contract into their books.
The Bears might weigh a direct trade against the draft path. If a deal can be reached, a Day 2 pick could be the starting point, especially with the possibility of void years or incentives to soften the 2026 cap impact. Still, Chicago could also let Payne’s status unfold and pounce if Washington cuts him or offers more favorable terms.
Chicago’s current interior line remains a priority beyond Payne. Gervon Dexter and Grady Jarrett provide veteran presence and upside, with Shemar Turner returning from injury to compete for depth behind them. Free-agent additions Neville Gallimore and Kentavius Street add versatility, but drafting another interior defender remains plausible.
If Chicago prioritizes the draft, several options could fit. In the first round, Ohio State’s Kayden McDonald is highly regarded but may not reach Chicago at 25. Clemson’s Peter Woods and emerging talents could also be in play. Notably, Gracen Halton from Oklahoma, a Round 2 candidate with strong run-stop and pass-rush metrics, could offer high value if he slides to the Bears’ second selection. Ultimately, Chicago must weigh a cost-efficient, immediate help option like Payne against a longer-term, cost-controlled draft approach.
