The Chicago Bears are building momentum just in time to make a significant move ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
With a 4-2 record, the Bears are emerging as playoff contenders, largely thanks to the impressive performance of rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, who has shown substantial improvement this season. This is a critical moment for the Bears to commit fully to winning.
To truly position themselves as serious contenders, the Bears need to enhance their pass rush. While their statistics appear decent, they have struggled to generate consistent pressure. Strong offensive lines have managed to contain the Bears’ front seven, but that could change if they pursue a major trade.
Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders may be on the trading block before the November 5 deadline, and the Bears are among the interested teams. Sanjesh Singh from NBC Los Angeles highlighted the Bears as one of the top contenders for Crosby’s services.
“After acquiring Montez Sweat from Washington in 2023, Chicago has been evaluating potential partners for him,” Singh noted. “While Darrell Taylor, coming from the Seattle Seahawks, and DeMarcus Walker have contributed, Crosby would be a clear upgrade over both.”
Crosby, 27, is among the best players likely to be traded this season. He has already recorded 5.5 sacks, despite frequently facing double-teams, and leads the NFL with 54 tackles for loss since the start of the 2022 season.
Acquiring Crosby would benefit the Bears in two significant ways. First, it would elevate their defense to one of the toughest in the league. Second, it would prevent division rivals, the Detroit Lions—who recently lost star pass-rusher Aidan Hutchinson for the season—from acquiring him.
Trading for Crosby could be the bold move the Bears need to solidify their status as serious contenders for the NFC title. While it would come at a cost (Crosby is in the second year of a four-year, $94 million contract with an option after 2024), it could prove to be a worthwhile investment.