With the new league year officially kicking off on March 11, teams around the league will look to make some meaningful additions to their roster. Help at the edge rusher spot is at the top of the list for Chicago, which is why the development around Las Vegas Raiders edge Maxx Crosby should have Austin Booker looking over his shoulder.
Sports Illustrated Senior NFL reporter Albert Breer shared on Monday that Crosby could be dealt this week, and Chicago is a team to keep an eye on.
"I’d lean toward a Maxx Crosby trade happening, and maybe this week...with teams like Dallas, Chicago, Baltimore, Buffalo, New England, Philadelphia, and the Rams keeping tabs on his availability," Breer wrote.
While six other teams are listed, Chicago's interest should have fans excited, but it would have a negative ripple effect on Booker's 2026 outlook.
Bears Interest in Maxx Crosby Is Good News for Austin Booker
Currently looking at the Bears' depth chart, Montez Sweat and Booker would be the likely starters at edge. Dayo Odeyingbo is rehabbing from a torn Achilles, thrusting Booker into starter reps, but if Chicago acquires Crosby, it'll push Booker back into a reserve role.
It shouldn't be a surprise that Chicago is looking to upgrade its pass rush, as the Bears finished tied for 28th in the NFL in team sacks (35) last season. Booker was third on the team in sacks (4.5), along with 29 total pressures and 16 hurries, making him one of their more productive pieces. The fact that Booker was able to do that in 10 games after missing time with a knee injury cannot be discounted, either.
While Booker has shown flashes, Crosby would immediately take over his starting job. He's one of the best pass rushers in the NFL, earning five Pro Bowl and two All-Pro selections since turning pro. Over his seven-year career, Crosby has accumulated 439 total tackles, 133 TFLs, 164 QB hits, and 69.5 sacks.
Crosby has four seasons with 10-plus sacks under his belt and would provide Chicago with a star pass rusher they are actively searching for. While it would make this unit better, it would demote Booker in the process.
The 23-year-old was nabbed in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL draft and has the tools that excite the front office, but the chance to get a superstar is enticing. And if the Bears can get this across the finish line, Booker will be moved to a backup role.
That's less than ideal for a young defender who wants to breakout in his third year, but the potential of Crosby in the Windy City is too good an opportunity to pass up.