The Chicago Bears entered the offseason with one of the most underwhelming defensive lines in pro football. So far, general manager Ryan Poles has done pretty much nothing to improve that, other than being tangled up in Maxx Crosby trade rumors.
Notably, that could still change. Jalen Carter stlil hasn't gotten a new deal despite being the Philadelphia Eagles' most obvious extension candidate, and the silence on the situation actually speaks volumes.
As talented as he is, the Eagles don't seem to be in a rush to sign him, which doesn't go with their usual M.O. As Sports Illustrated insider Albert Breer pointed out, they still have some doubts about him, and that gives the Bears a perfect window of opportunity:
"The answer is yes, they are hesitant to pay him," wrote Breer. "...So the fact that we’re into June without Jalen Carter having a deal is notable. And I’d guess if they do one now, before his fourth season as a pro, then it’d come with flexibility for the team."
The Bears should inquire about Jalen Carter
Of course, there are more than enough reasons to have some doubts about Carter's character. Talent-wise, he could've been the first or second player off the board in his draft class, but concerns about his work ethic and demeanor ultimately made him slip.
So far, he's done a good job of staying out of trouble for the most part. However, incidents like spitting on Dak Prescott's face one play into the season raised doubts about his maturity and professionalism again.
From a work ethic perspective, however, Carter has done a great job of silencing the critics. He's gotten better every year and hasn't had weight issues. He's still his biggest enemy, but there's no doubt that he's got superstar potential.
As things stand now, the Bears will enter the season with Grady Jarrett and Gervon Dexter Sr. as their starting defensive tackles. Jarrett was the team's most disappointing signing last season, and he may not get much better as he gets older.
There are also doubts about Shemar Turner's health and availability, and even if he were fully healthy, Carter would still be a massive upgrade over anybody on that roster. He'd come with risk, and the Eagles would likely demand at least a first-round pick to get him, but he'd certainly be worth the risk.
According to Pro Football Focus, Carter had 41 pressures last season, including 30 hurries and eight quarterback hits. He's been one of the best pass-rushing tackles in the game in his three years in the league, and at 25, the former No. 9 pick hasn't even reached his prime yet.
The Bears won't be a feel-good story in 2026. Everybody knows what they're capable of, and they'll try to exploit their weaknesses. Not addressing their most glaring flaw could doom their season, and Carter is a perfect fit for their timeline.
| More Bears News and Rumors |
Add us as a preferred source on Google