The Chicago Bears have already made some great moves this offseason, but as new head coach Ben Johnson pointed out, they’re now entering the crucial “player acquisition” phase. Johnson is absolutely right—free agency kicks off next month, followed by the NFL Draft in April. The Bears have some key decisions to make that will significantly impact their success next season.
New Details Reveal How Bad Things Got Between Shane Waldron And Caleb Williamshttps://t.co/fF7dBOFAfp
— Dave (@dave_bfr) February 7, 2025
One move they should not make, however, is trading for Cleveland Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett. Garrett reportedly requested a trade last week, and some media speculation has linked him to Chicago. But here are two key reasons why general manager Ryan Poles should steer clear of making this deal:
Should the Bears trade for Myles Garrett? pic.twitter.com/ur2J8a8IJv
— Dave (@dave_bfr) February 3, 2025
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1. The Bears would give up too much draft capital
A trade for Garrett would likely mirror the Bears 2018 deal for Khalil Mack, which cost them two first-round picks, a third-round pick, and a sixth-round pick in exchange for Mack, a second-round pick, and a conditional fifth-rounder. That move didn’t pan out as hoped, especially since the Bears didn’t have a franchise quarterback—Mitch Trubisky wasn’t the answer.
Acquiring Garrett would likely cost at least one first-round pick, if not two, plus additional draft capital or possibly a player. The Bears are not just one edge rusher away from contending. They need to maximize their draft assets to fill key roster holes, particularly on the offensive line.
2. The Bears would lose financial flexibility
Chicago is among the top 10 teams in salary cap space this offseason. While Garrett’s 2024 salary is around $19 million, any team trading for him would likely need to sign him to an expensive extension. Just because the Bears have money to spend doesn’t mean they should spend it on Garrett.
Protecting the quarterback is a bigger priority—last season, Chicago’s rookie QB was sacked 68 times. Instead of committing a huge portion of their cap to one player, the Bears should focus on strengthening their offensive line and addressing other needs.
Myles Garrett is a 6× All-Pro with 2 years, $61M left on his deal.
At 29, he'd likely cost two 1st-round picks. IMO Bears should target an edge in the draft and/or free agency instead—maybe a Khalil Mack reunion?
Just because they can afford Garrett, doesn’t mean they should.
— Dave (@dave_bfr) February 3, 2025
Final Thoughts
Myles Garrett is a phenomenal talent, but given the cost in draft picks and salary, trading for him simply doesn’t make sense for where the Bears are right now. Ryan Poles should stay patient and use the team’s resources to build a more complete and balanced roster.
