The topic has been covered many times already. Nobody can argue the reality. The Chicago Bears have legitimate concerns at the edge rush positions. DeMarcus Walker was their only notable addition this off-season, and he’s seen more as a mix of edge and interior. His career-high sack total for a season is seven. While that should help, it doesn’t solve the problem. They’re still leaning heavily on Trevis Gipson and Dominique Robinson to pick up the slack. After what happened last year, it is easy to understand why many are skeptical. It’s also why expectations remain high that GM Ryan Poles will do something about it.
Thus far, the team has remained silent. Poles did hint a few weeks ago that the organization is keeping its options open. That means free agency and the trade market. It comes down to finding the right deal. Deadlines spur action, as they say. Training camp is fast approaching. Poles may want to get somebody in before players are expected to report on July 25th. Brad Spielberger of Pro Football Focus has one name in mind.
It’s not a star, but he could be exactly what they need.
“CHICAGO BEARS: TRADE FOR NEW YORK JETS EDGE DEFENDER BRYCE HUFF
The Chicago Bears made several free agent additions on the edge that should be solid against the run on early downs but don’t project to offer much juice to get after opposing quarterbacks. Huff is an assassin on passing downs, where he’s been deployed in a limited role. His 25.6% pass-rush win rate in 2022 was the top mark in the NFL by more than 3 percentage points among edge rushers with at least 100 pass-rush snaps.
The Jets are gearing up for a Super Bowl run, and while it may not make a ton of sense to move on from a talented young player, they were able to rework Carl Lawson’s contract and used a first-round pick on Iowa State edge rusher Will McDonald IV. It makes even less sense for Huff to be a fifth edge rusher when he has earned a larger role.”
Ryan Poles and the Bears can absolutely use Huff.
His pressure rate steadily improved during his time in New York. He managed 3.5 sacks and 10 quarterback hits in only 191 defensive snaps last season. It’s clear the Jets are giving him many opportunities to continue growing. Now with Will McDonald in town, those opportunities may grow even fewer. A team like Chicago would be perfect for him. The hurdles to get more snaps are far less daunting. He has the athletic profile and relentless hustle Matt Eberflus prefers in his players too.
As always, it comes down to price. Huff is in the last year of his rookie contract. It is unlikely the Jets can demand more than a 5th round pick for him in any trade. The Chicago Bears are well-equipped to meet such a price if they wish. Money isn’t a concern with them. If Huff comes in and plays well, they can extend him without difficulties. He is 25 years old and entering his prime. Ryan Poles prefers those types of veterans. This trade would be right up his alley.
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