Sitting at 6-2 and in a tight NFC North race, the Chicago Bears might not be done buying at the NFL trade deadline, even after acquiring defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons. The next need that the Bears are exploring appears to be a cornerback, according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.
Chicago Bears Eyeing Cornerback Help at NFL Trade Deadline
Fowler notes that a lot of the trade speculation around adding Khalil Mack appears to be put to the side while they explore upgrading their secondary.
“The Bears have been linked to edge rushers such as Khalil Mack, but a few league evaluators told me what you heard -- that cornerback is becoming more of a need,” wrote Fowler in his weekly column. “Tyrique Stevenson Sr. and Jaylon Johnson have had their up-and-down moments this season. And while Malik Muhammad II is flashing, he's a rookie.”
Fowler suggested two names that are currently being brought up in trade talks.
“Washington's Mike Sainstrill is a name that has circulated this week, though I don't get the sense the Commanders plan to trade him,” added Fowler. “An available corner such as the Eagles' Riq Woolen for a Day 3 pick could make sense.”
Sainstrill would be intriguing. The former second-round pick has slot and outside experience. He is in his third NFL season, but the team has currently moved him to a reserve role. The Bears could trade for him and get a player for this year who would be in the last year of his rookie deal next season.
Considering he is a backup with his stock trending down, he should not cost much. Woolen is another cheap option. After the free-agent market was not kind to him, he took a one-year deal with the Eagles to revive his reputation. However, the Eagles' struggles have not let him shine.
If Woolen became an instant impact player on the Bears for a postseason run, he could get more attention in free agency. The Eagles can get a pick for a player who did not work out, and if Woolen gets paid in free agency, it would help Chicago on the compensatory formula.
So, the Bears could make the addition without much risk and with plenty of upside. Whether it be Sainstrill or Woolen, it is starting to become clear what the next move is. They might be tied to edge rushers, but the bigger issue right now is in the secondary.
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