Chicago Bears trade options don’t seem like a conversation worth having at this point. GM Ryan Pace rarely makes moves outside of the draft and those are usually moves up to acquire players. Still, this 2018 draft is somewhat unique. If certain teams make moves early that are entirely possible, it could open up a chance for the Bears to acquire players on their roster that no longer become useful.
Players that would serve a far greater purpose in Chicago and could be purchased at a cheap price too. It comes down to timing, luck and a whether Pace has the wherewithal to pull the trigger. Here are three names, in no particular order who fit the bill.
Denver Broncos take a pass rusher
Trades tend to develop for quality players when one of two things happen: either the player is owed an expensive new contract or the team is switching to a scheme he no longer fits. This could be the case for former first round pick Shane Ray. After breaking out with eight sacks in 2016, he struggled with nagging injuries in 2017. Not only that, but the Broncos shifted from their traditional 3-4 system to a new 4-3 alignment.
Ray, who is 6’3″ and 245 lbs can’t be considered a full-time option for a 4-3 defensive end. Typically they must be around 260 lbs to function properly. Ray doesn’t seem capable of holding that amount of mass without losing his explosiveness. The Broncos are certainly aware of this problem. It’s quite possible they may be looking early in the draft for somebody who better fits their system. If they find him, then Ray instantly becomes expendable.
Likely cost: 6th round pick
Miami Dolphins take an offensive tackle
Rumors continue to circulate that the Miami Dolphins came close to trading former first round pick Ja’Wuan James to the Broncos in a deal that involved running back C.J. Anderson. The deal never went through, but it was the latest indication that the team has soured on the offensive tackle. A surprising fall from grace after two standout years in 2015 and 2016 where he exhibited high-quality pass blocking.
Injuries have played a part in his struggle. A toe issue ended his 2015 early and last season it was a hamstring. When his body is right though he proved he could block at a high level, showcasing a good mix of power and athleticism. If the Dolphins find his replacement in the draft, the Bears could swoop in. Not only do they need an upgrade over Bobby Massie, but James has ties to new offensive line coach Harry Hiestand.
Likely cost: 5th round pick
Arizona Cardinals take a defensive tackle
Olsen Pierre quietly had a productive season for the Cardinals in 2017. In 14 games he managed to produce 5.5 sacks. A substantial improvement from last season. The 26-years looked like he was ready for a possible breakout year. Now that must be put on hold as Arizona prepares to shift towards a 4-3 system under new head coach Steve Wilks.
Pierre has spent his career mastering the 3-4 end position. Having to switch now would be a major hassle. That is unless the Cardinals decide to add a defensive tackle in the draft who better fits the scheme. If this were the case, it could open the door for them dealing Pierre who was tendered as an exclusive rights free agent. He will be unrestricted in 2019. This offers the Bears a chance to get him cheap.
Likely cost: 7th round pick
