The Bears traded a 2025 sixth-round pick for defensive lineman Darrell Taylor on Friday afternoon, as reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Taylor, originally a second-round pick out of Tennessee in 2020, has recorded 23 sacks and five forced fumbles over the past three seasons.
Grading the trade
At the end of the day, the trade for Darrell Taylor is unlikely to make a major impact. It’s a low-risk, high-reward move by Bears GM Ryan Poles, and while it might not be a game-changer, it’s still a solid depth signing. Taylor is only 27 years old and was a second-round pick in 2020. Over the past two years, he’s recorded 17 sacks. The main goal here was to add depth and make an immediate impact, which Taylor is likely to provide.
This move seems to be a shift in Poles’ strategy after missing out on edge rusher Matthew Judon last week. Although Judon is more productive, he’s also 32, five years older than Taylor. Plus, Judon is seeking a big contract that Atlanta hasn’t yet agreed to, making him a much more expensive option. On the other hand, Taylor is still on his rookie contract, with a cap hit of just over $3 million in 2024. The value for the Bears is clear, and the potential payoff could be significant.
Even if Taylor is primarily a pass-rushing specialist who contributes 6-10 sacks, that’s exactly what the Bears need right now. The long-term solution can still be addressed in the 2025 draft or through a more significant trade later on.
Subscribe to the BFR Youtube channel and ride shotgun with Dave and Ficky as they break down Bears football like nobody else.
