4 Edge Rushers Bears Must Target Before Regular Season
By Cem Yolbulan
It is no secret that the Chicago Bears are trying to find an edge defender to put opposite Montez Sweat. After they acquired the star pass rusher from the Commanders mid-season in 2023, it completely turned their season around. Now, head coach Matt Eberflus and general manager Ryan Poles think that adding another elite defensive end will take the defense to the next level.
In fact, the Bears tried to trade for Matthew Judon from the Patriots but lost the sweepstakes to the Falcons. It was reported that Poles was willing to give up a third-round draft pick to make the trade happen. This suggests that Chicago is very eager to get a deal done before the regular season and isn't afraid to pay a hefty asking price to make it happen. Here are four defenders who fit the bill that the Bears can acquire in the upcoming weeks.
Haason Reddick, Jets
Reddick is arguably the most likely candidate to be a Chicago Bear heading into the season. Even though the New York Jets only traded for the two-time Pro Bowler earlier in the offseason, he requested another trade before he even suited up for the team.
The most sensible landing spot for the star pass rusher is the Chicago Bears. Reddick requires a contract extension when acquired and he has shown that he is willing to get uncomfortable if he doesn't get his way. But the Bears should be willing to give the veteran a long-term extension.
Even though Reddick is going to turn 30 in a couple of weeks, he has been remarkably healthy, available, and reliable. In the last four seasons, he has played every game and put up double-digit sacks every single year.