As the NFL’s trade deadline approaches on November 5, the Chicago Bears find themselves at a crucial juncture in their season. After last year’s acquisition of Montez Sweat from the Washington Commanders, which was aimed at bolstering their pass rush, general manager Ryan Poles seems poised to make another significant move. According to Erik Lambert of Sportsmockery, two marquee names have caught Poles’ attention: Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns and Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders.Â
Garrett, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, has been a standout performer since entering the league in 2017. With an impressive tally of 101 tackles for loss and 92.5 sacks in just 107 regular-season games, his presence on the defensive line could be transformative for any team, including the Bears. His speed, strength, and ability to disrupt the opposing offense make him one of the most feared pass rushers in the league.Â
The Bears, currently navigating a challenging season, could greatly benefit from a player of Garrett’s caliber. While Sweat has provided a boost to the defense, the addition of Garrett would elevate the unit to another level. The Bears have struggled with consistency on defense, often allowing opponents to dictate the pace of the game. Adding a player like Garrett could change the dynamic, giving Chicago a legitimate game-changer who can impact every snap.
On the other hand, Maxx Crosby, known for his relentless motor and tenacity, also presents a compelling option for the Bears. Crosby has developed into one of the top edge rushers in the NFL, consistently racking up pressures and sacks. His ability to penetrate the backfield and disrupt plays makes him a valuable asset for any defensive scheme. The Bears’ defense has seen flashes of potential, but consistency has been elusive. Crosby could help solidify the front seven, allowing other players to thrive and making it easier for the secondary to perform.
Poles’ interest in these two elite players reflects a broader strategy aimed at making the Bears competitive in the NFC North. The team’s defensive struggles have been well-documented, and with a young roster, investing in established stars could provide the immediate impact the Bears need. Both Garrett and Crosby possess not only the talent but also the experience to lead a young defensive unit.
However, pursuing either player comes with its challenges. Myles Garrett is a cornerstone of the Browns’ defense, and trading him would likely require a steep price. The Browns are in the hunt for a playoff spot, making them less inclined to part ways with their star. On the other hand, while Maxx Crosby is also a key player for the Raiders, the team’s current rebuilding phase could make them more open to negotiations. However, both trades would require a significant commitment from the Bears, including substantial draft capital and potentially even player swaps.
In addition to the immediate impact these players could have on the field, their acquisition would signal a shift in the Bears’ overall strategy. It would illustrate a willingness to take bold steps to improve the team and attract talent. The Bears have been in a prolonged rebuilding phase, and securing a star player could not only enhance their defense but also invigorate the fanbase and demonstrate a commitment to winning.
As the trade deadline looms, Ryan Poles has a critical decision to make. The Bears must weigh the potential benefits of acquiring a player like Garrett or Crosby against the costs and the long-term vision for the franchise. With the clock ticking, all eyes will be on Chicago to see if they can pull off another blockbuster deal that could reshape their roster and their future.Â
Ultimately, the Bears are at a crossroads, and how they approach this trade deadline could define their trajectory for the coming years. The pursuit of elite talent like Myles Garrett and Maxx Crosby illustrates a desire to compete now while building a foundation for sustained success. Whether they can capitalize on this opportunity remains to be seen, but the potential rewards are undeniable.
