The Chicago Bears' defensive end Montez Sweat carries a cap hit of at least $25 million from now through the 2027 campaign. With that level of pay comes major expectations and responsibilities, which is why Bears fans were disappointed in the Pro Bowler's play to begin the year. Fortunately, things have turned around to the tune of 7.5 sacks in his last eight games.
It isn't hard to argue that Sweat has been much better than what the eye test might suggest. In fact, he's got the fourth-most turnovers generated by pressure since 2024 (6), according to NFL Next Gen Stats. That's right behind Byron Young (9), Jared Verse (8), and T.J. Watt.
Montez Sweat Has Played His Way Into Bears' Future Plans
It's not a secret that Sweat is a somewhat limited player outside of the pass rush. Even so, he's bounced back from a down season in 2024. In 13 appearances, he's up to 27 total tackles (11 solo), 13 quarterback hits, 12 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks, five passes defensed, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovered.
The Bears' pass rush still needs a true No. 1, and finding someone who can complement Sweat and make up for his deficiencies should be near the top of this team's priority list. But, clearly, defensive coordinator Dennis Allen has known how to bring the best out of this game.
Sweat ranks near the middle of the pack in terms of Pro Football Focus grade (69.0, 43rd among 112 eligible players), and his 39 pressures (including 26 hurries) rank 32nd among edge rushers. That being said, his pressures are clearly making an impact, and he's played a big part in the Bears' ability to lead the league in takeaways this season.
Also, to be fair, the Bears have also struggled to shut down the interior of the field, and they should also look to revamp the defensive tackle position. That would leave more room for Sweat and whoever stars opposite to operate out of the line of scrimmage and get to the quarterback.
Sweat is signed through the 2027 season. He'll be 31 by the time he hits free agency, and it's hard to imagine he's going to get as much money as the $98 million he got over four years in his final deal. Chicago might even try to lower its cap hit by restructuring his contract next season.
The Bears might not have the stoutest defensive line in the game, but they're forcing opposing quarterbacks to make mistakes and give the ball away. And while Sweat doesn't make a lot of splash plays, the few he makes are usually impactful.