In a significant move ahead of the NFL’s trade deadline, the Chicago Bears have addressed a pressing need by acquiring edge rusher Montez Sweat from the Washington Commanders. This trade has the potential to transform the Bears’ defense and has fans buzzing with anticipation.
The 2-6 Chicago Bears were in dire need of pass rush aid, ranking last in the NFL with a mere 10 sacks over the season’s first eight games. Their lackluster 46 pressures through eight games tied them for the lowest pressure percentage (14.4) with the Las Vegas Raiders. The team’s pass rush leaders, Yannick Ngakoue and linebacker T.J. Edwards, had just two sacks apiece.
“Montez is a huge addition to our team,” exclaimed general manager Ryan Poles, emphasizing the significance of this acquisition. “He is not only a great player but a great person. We expect him to help elevate our defense.”
Montez Sweat immediately strengthens the Bears’ pass rush. In 2023, he led the Washington Commanders with 6.5 sacks through eight games and contributed 27 total pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. Over his four and a half seasons in Washington, Sweat has tallied an impressive 35.5 sacks.
However, it’s worth noting that Montez Sweat is a pending free agent after this season, making this trade a bold move for Chicago. The Washington Commanders, known for their investments in the defensive line, have already secured Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen with significant contracts. They also traded Chase Young to the San Francisco 49ers in a deal reported by Ian Rapoport.
For the 3-5 Commanders, receiving second- and third-round picks for players who could potentially leave in free agency is a solid strategic move. While it may seem like a steep price for a player with an expiring contract, the Chicago Bears have the cap space to sign Sweat long-term. Considering the urgent need for an improved pass rush in the Windy City, it should be a priority for Ryan Poles, the Bears’ general manager.
Nevertheless, some Bears fans may wonder why they couldn’t have pursued Montez Sweat in free agency without surrendering a valuable second-round pick. At the very least, acquiring the pass rusher now provides the Bears with a head start on securing Sweat to a multi-year deal. The question remains: was it worth a second-rounder?
As the NFL trade deadline approaches, this move might not be the last one for Bears’ general manager Ryan Poles. There are reports that cornerback Jaylon Johnson has been granted permission to seek a trade, adding an intriguing layer of anticipation to the deadline’s final hours.
Stay tuned for more updates as Montez Sweat makes his mark on the Chicago Bears’ defense, and the NFL trade deadline unfolds. The Windy City is in for an exciting football season!
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