Three games remain before the NFL trade deadline on October 31st. That is how long the Chicago Bears have to make a decision. Will they be buyers, sellers, or stand pat? GM Ryan Poles spent last year as a seller, shipping out veterans Robert Quinn and Roquan Smith for 2nd, 4th, and 5th round picks. With the Bears sitting at 1-4, it feels like this could be another case of selling. However, that might change if they put together some wins against a manageable schedule.
So this feels like a good time to explore potential deals Poles could make depending on which direction the Bears are trending. Here are scenarios that make sense.
Chicago Bears’ on-field performance will determine the approach.
Buyers:
2nd and 4th round picks to Minnesota for EDGE Danielle Hunter
The theme of the buyer’s market is pretty apparent. They must find a legitimate pass rusher to help elevate their defensive line. The Vikings seem intent on hitting the reset button, which is why they haven’t chosen to extend Hunter long-term. The three-time Pro Bowler is still one of the NFL’s biggest forces off the edge. He already has six sacks this season and is only 28 years old. Minnesota doesn’t have much leverage because he’ll be a free agent next year. Chicago can nab him for a decent price. The tricky part will be making sure he signs an extension.
Subscribe to the BFR Youtube channel and ride shotgun with Dave and Ficky as they break down Bears football like nobody else.
2nd round pick to Washington for EDGE Chase Young
Many were worried the former #2 overall pick would never be the same after a bad knee injury two years ago. His rehab process was long and difficult, but Young appears back to his old self with three sacks and 27 pressures in four games. Washington must choose to pay him or Montez Sweat. It seems as if Young will be the odd man out. Chicago has every reason to pounce. He’s only 24 years old, fits their defensive scheme, and is good friends with quarterback Justin Fields. They can also afford to pay him big money.
1st round pick and WR Darnell Mooney to Carolina for EDGE Brian Burns
Carolina probably wishes they traded Burns earlier when they could’ve gotten multiple 1st round picks. Now, they’re likely not getting more than one. The Chicago Bears absolutely should make the offer. They have two to spare and can add Mooney to the package as a sweetener. The Panthers sorely need wide receiver help for Bryce Young. Burns is a double-digit sack artist who can instantly transform a front. Chicago has the money necessary to make him one of the highest-paid pass rushers in the league. They can do this while still hanging onto Carolina’s 1st round pick next year, which should be at least top-5.
Sellers:
CB Jaylon Johnson to the Chargers for a 4th round pick
Los Angeles has the worst pass defense in the NFL through five games. It’s a big reason they remain an unserious threat to the Chiefs in the AFC West. They need another capable cornerback to help maximize their pass rush. Head coach Brandon Staley is familiar with Johnson’s work through his connection as a former Bears coach. There is no question the former 2nd round pick could be an immediate asset to that secondary. It would also get him closer to his home in Fresno, California.
FS Eddie Jackson to the Eagles for a 5th round pick
Philadelphia is always active around the trade deadline every year. GM Howie Roseman loves seeking out potential bargains. Safety is somewhat of a weak point for the Eagles’ defense. Jackson could be a solution for them, especially since defensive coordinator Sean Desai worked with him for several years in Chicago. It would give the safety a chance to play for a winner while helping the Bears to continue preparing for 2024 with another draft pick and more cap space.
DT Justin Jones to the Texans for a 7th round pick
There comes a time when a team has to start the youth movement at a position. That time is almost at hand for the Bears at defensive tackle. They’ve been rolling with Andrew Billings and Justin Jones since the season began. Billings has played well. Jones has not. He has one sack in his past 17 games, looking nothing like the three-technique they need. It’s time to give Gervon Dexter and Zacch Pickens more work. Houston could use more help on their defensive interior. Jones should be a cheap acquisition with some upside.
