Chicago Bears Urged To Pursue Josh Sweat As Trade Rumors Intensify
The Chicago Bears have spent the last few years rebuilding their defense around star pass rusher Montez Sweat, but one analyst believes they should not stop there.
Following reports that Josh Sweat may be unhappy with the Arizona Cardinals organization, one Bears analyst suggested Chicago should explore a trade for the veteran edge rusher to create one of the league’s most dangerous pass-rushing duos. Recent reports indicate Sweat has been absent from voluntary offseason workouts, and speculation surrounding his future in Arizona continues to grow.
Why Josh Sweat Has Suddenly Become a Trade Candidate
The rumors surrounding Sweat began earlier this offseason after reports surfaced that he was unhappy following major organizational changes in Arizona. Some reports even claimed he requested a trade after the Cardinals moved on from former head coach Jonathan Gannon, though those reports have been disputed in some circles.
What is clear is that Sweat has not been participating in the Cardinals’ voluntary offseason program despite reportedly being healthy. That absence has fueled speculation that there could be unresolved tension between the player and the organization.
For teams around the league looking to upgrade their pass rush, any sign that a productive edge defender may become available naturally attracts attention.
Pairing Josh Sweat With Montez Sweat Would Be Intriguing
The logic behind a potential Bears pursuit is easy to understand. Josh Sweat is coming off one of the most productive seasons of his career. The veteran recorded 12 sacks and 13 tackles for loss in 2025 while serving as Arizona’s most disruptive defensive player. His ability to consistently pressure quarterbacks helped make him one of the NFL’s more effective edge rushers.
Meanwhile, Montez Sweat remains the centerpiece of Chicago’s defensive front after arriving via trade and quickly becoming one of the team’s most impactful defenders. Putting the two together would immediately give the Bears a formidable pass-rushing tandem capable of affecting games without relying heavily on blitz packages.
Bears Still Have a Need for Additional Pass Rush
Even after several offseason additions, many analysts believe Chicago could still use another difference-maker along the defensive line.
The Bears have improved their roster in recent years, but consistently generating pressure remains one of the most valuable traits in today’s NFL. Teams that can disrupt opposing quarterbacks with four-man rushes often have a major advantage, particularly in the postseason.
That reality makes a player like Josh Sweat attractive if he genuinely becomes available. The veteran brings championship experience, proven production, and durability. At 29 years old, he would still fit within Chicago’s competitive window while giving the defense another established playmaker.
Would a Trade Actually Make Sense?
Of course, there are significant hurdles. Arizona signed Sweat to a lucrative contract not long ago and may have little interest in moving one of its top defensive players. Even if the Cardinals became willing to listen to offers, the acquisition cost would likely be substantial.
Chicago would need to determine whether investing draft capital and salary-cap resources into another veteran pass rusher aligns with its long-term plans. Still, the idea is compelling enough that analysts continue discussing it.
If the reports about Sweat’s dissatisfaction prove accurate and Arizona eventually entertains trade offers, the Bears could emerge as one of the more logical landing spots. A defense featuring both Josh Sweat and Montez Sweat would instantly become one of the NFL’s most intriguing pass-rushing groups and could help Chicago take another step toward solidifying their place as a legitimate contender in the NFC.
