GM Ryan Poles made his plans clear two weeks ago when the Chicago Bears traded Robert Quinn. They were sacrificing the present in favor of the future. While the Pro Bowl defensive end was the most accomplished pass rusher they had, he hadn’t done enough to warrant keeping him around at his current salary. So the Bears tested the trade market, securing a 4th round pick from the Philadelphia Eagles. Everybody praised Philly for the move, feeling they’d gotten another star for their already-loaded roster on the cheap. Chicago didn’t even warrant discussion.
It appears things haven’t progressed as expected. The Eagles have only played Quinn 49 snaps in three games. In 32 pass rush opportunities, he has three pressures and no sacks. It is hard to understand why they aren’t using him, considering what they gave up for his services. It’s possible they might not like what they’ve seen from him thus far. It was already evident Quinn wasn’t the same player he was last season when he had 18 sacks. If things continue on this course, the Eagles will not be viewed as winners of the trade.
Replacing Robert Quinn is high on the Bears’ agenda.
It is painfully obvious how toothless their pass rush is with him and Khalil Mack out of the picture. While the offensive line will be a priority for Chicago, it’s a safe assumption that head coach Matt Eberflus will push for edge help. Luckily the upcoming 2023 draft appears rich in such talents. The Bears may even have a chance to land one of the best if they continue losing. That would guarantee them a top five pick. Recent history says good pass rushers are always found in that area of the draft. See Nick Bosa, Joey Bosa, and Bradley Chubb.
Philadelphia remains a good football team. Even if Robert Quinn doesn’t rediscover his 2021 form, they’ll keep winning. Paying a 4th round pick for quality depth in a Super Bowl-or-bust season might feel like a worthwhile sacrifice from their perspective. Still, it’s already looking like Poles made the right decision. Quinn wasn’t helping this team win games, is 32 years old and didn’t have much value to them beyond 2022. Getting a reasonable draft choice and extra cap space was a wise decision.
🔥 Subscribe to the Untold Chicago YouTube channel to hear Chicago legends tell stories you’ve never seen in headlines — real moments, real experiences, straight from the athletes themselves.
