In a bold-predictions piece that surveys every NFL team, one takeaway for the Bears is a potential trade for an edge rusher. The argument is that Chicago’s defense, while featuring a strong presence at the outside linebacker spot with Montez Sweat, could benefit from more reliable production opposite Sweat. The roster has shown gaps in the secondary and along the defensive front, and adding a proven pass-rushing threat could ease pressure on the unit as they navigate a lengthy injury-related shadow in their depth chart.
The Bears’ front seven has seen changes already. They traded interior defender Gervon Dexter to the Atlanta Falcons before the season, reshaping the interior. They also faced injuries in the secondary, including safety Coby Bryant going on injured reserve with a significant knee injury, and nickel cornerback Kyler Gordon expected to miss at least the first four games due to his status on the physically unable to perform list. While bolstering the pass rush could ease some of the secondary strain, those injuries complicate Chicago’s defensive outlook.
At the edge, Chicago’s situation remains unsettled. Sweat is the most established threat, but the rest of the group has questions. Dayo Odeyingbo is returning from an Achilles tear, and Austin Booker’s health is uncertain after a groin injury. The team briefly signed Marcus Davenport during camp, released him during roster cutdowns, and then brought him back onto the practice squad, illustrating the ongoing search for a complementary pass rusher.
The idea that Poles could “turn over every rock” for help reflects the Bears’ need for more pressure on the quarterback and the value of pairing Sweat with a younger, productive edge defender who can supplement the rush.
Possible targets considered for Chicago include:
– Kayvon Thibodeaux, New York Giants: A younger edge with 23.5 sacks and six forced fumbles across four NFL seasons. Thibodeaux is in the final year of his rookie deal, which could make him an attractive target if the Giants decide to prioritize other priorities or cap considerations. There are caveats, as Giants GM Joe Schoen has publicly praised Thibodeaux and the Giants have a deep edge room, making a move far from certain. Still, Thibodeaux’s contract situation and potential for a larger role could keep him in play as the season progresses.
– Maxx Crosby, Las Vegas Raiders: A blockbuster option, Crosby offers elite production but would be a difficult acquisition. A trade at the deadline remains a theoretical possibility if the Raiders’ season goes off track and Chicago is willing to offer a substantial package. However, the likelihood of a September deal is low, given Crosby’s stature and the Raiders’ current plans.
– Alex Highsmith, Pittsburgh Steelers: A proven edge presence who could fit well alongside Sweat, Highsmith represents a trade-deadline consideration more than a Week 1 target. Pittsburgh’s depth at edge rusher and the need to manage salaries could influence whether a move materializes.
– Josh Sweat, Arizona Cardinals: A productive defender (12 sacks in 2025) who would be an asset in Chicago, Sweat’s status is complicated by Arizona’s stance on trading him. The Cardinals have indicated they don’t want to move him at the moment, though circumstances could evolve if the team’s direction changes or if a compelling offer arises.
Among these options, Thibodeaux stands out as the name with a compelling blend of talent, contract considerations, and the continuing rumor mill that keeps him in the trade chatter. Crosby represents the extraordinary, near-impossible type of mid-season swing. Highsmith and Sweat are the more plausible, longer-shot targets Poles could monitor as the season unfolds.
It’s important to note that Graziano’s column does not guarantee a move, and none of the scenarios described are confirmed initiatives. Chicago’s defense would benefit from increased pressure, but any move would depend on multiple factors, including the willingness of opponents to part with key players, the Bears’ compensation and cap strategy, and the overall direction of both Chicago and the players’ teams.
As the Bears pursue an NFC North title defense, Poles will likely continue evaluating edge-rusher options to add a new dimension to a defense that already features Sweat and a developing group behind him. The pursuit of a reliable complement on the edge remains a sensible and continuing effort for Chicago as they refine their roster for the 2026 season.
Note: This article focuses on roster dynamics and public trade discussions surrounding potential edge-rusher targets and does not rely on or reference any original publisher.
