The Chicago Bears’ defense has faced significant injuries during the 2025 season, and they dealt with another setback in Sunday’s win.
The Bears lost edge rusher Dayo Odeyingbo to a torn Achilles. This leaves the team lacking depth at the edge position at a difficult time.
The Bears’ defense has struggled to pressure opposing quarterbacks, leading to challenges in crucial moments and difficulties in getting off the field.
Lack of Pressure Hurting the Defensive Front
Chicago ranks among the worst in the league for sacks and pressure rate, a problem that has persisted all season. Montez Sweat has performed well over the past month, but he frequently faces double teams with little assistance from his teammates.
With Odeyingbo out for the rest of the season, the Bears may need to lean on second-year edge rusher Austin Booker, who made a good impression in his season debut on Sunday, including a key strip sack in the fourth quarter. They also have players like Daniel Hardy, who has shown promise in limited plays.
However, relying on young players who have not yet demonstrated consistent pressure might be a tall order.
Trade Deadline Options on the Table
The best chance for the Bears to strengthen their defense may come through a trade. As Tuesday’s trade deadline has arrived, several names have emerged as potential targets for the Bears.
Veteran pass rusher Bradley Chubb could be an option, as Miami has already traded Jaelan Phillips, but he would require a high price. Younger, more cost-effective players like Jermaine Johnson II and veteran edge Arden Key could also be available for mid-round draft picks, offering potential upside.
The challenge for the Bears’ front office will be to weigh the cost, risk, and fit of available players. Teams will likely demand significant draft capital, and integrating a new player mid-season always carries some risk.
Free Agency Could Offer Immediate Help
The final option for the Bears is to sign experienced talent from the free agency market. Players like Shaquil Barrett, Yannick Ngakoue, and DeMarcus Walker could provide leadership, experience, rotational depth, and upside at a lower cost.
These mid-tier veterans come with reduced risk and short-term commitments but could bring much-needed stability alongside Sweat. Adding one or two of them would help the Bears maintain financial flexibility while securing capable, experienced rushers for critical moments.
A Defense One Piece Away?
Ultimately, the Bears’ defensive front may be just one strong pass rusher away from making significant progress. With a skilled linebacker corps and a secondary that is finally getting healthier, boosting the edge rush could elevate the defense from average to playoff-ready.
Whether through a trade or a strategic free-agent signing, Dennis Allen and Ryan Poles need to move quickly.
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