After missing out on former New England Patriots pass rusher Matthew Judon, the Chicago Bears are still exploring significant options to boost their pass rush.
Bears GM Ryan Poles was reportedly one of several executives eyeing Judon, who ultimately was traded to the Atlanta Falcons. While the deal for Judon didn’t come through—more on that later—the Bears could still make a splash similar to last year’s acquisition of Montez Sweat at the trade deadline.
One potential target is current New York Jets edge rusher Haason Reddick.
“If the Bears want to dip into the trade market, Reddick seems like their best shot at landing a star,” Jacob Infante of Windy City Gridiron wrote on August 15, adding:
“Reddick’s impact is undeniable; he’s a two-time Pro Bowler with 50.5 sacks over the last four seasons. The Bears would likely need to offer a package similar to what was needed for Judon, likely a third-round pick, and be prepared to offer Reddick a substantial contract. It’s a bold move, but pairing him with Sweat could be too tempting to pass up.”
The 33rd Team recently named the Bears as one of the top four trade destinations for Reddick, who is coming off back-to-back Pro Bowl seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles. After failing to secure a new contract following the 2023 season, Reddick was traded to the Jets for a 2026 conditional third-round pick.
Jets GM Joe Douglas has expressed reluctance to move Reddick, but a strong offer, such as a second-round pick, might change his mind. Given Chicago’s interest in Judon, it’s not far-fetched to think Poles might reach out to Douglas. Last season, Sweat’s arrival had a major impact on the Bears, and they are clearly searching for another pass rusher to complement him.
“He draws attention, which frees up other rushers,” Bears head coach Matt Eberflus told CBS Sports on August 13. “Having two impact players is even better, and that’s something we’re aiming for moving forward.”
The financial aspect will be crucial in any deal for Reddick. He’s entering the final year of a three-year, $45 million contract, and it’s evident he wants a lucrative extension.
At 30 years old, age could be a concern, but since Poles was willing to pursue the 32-year-old Judon, it likely won’t be a significant issue. The biggest hurdle is likely the money involved.
Former NFL GM Scott Pioli mentioned on the August 15 episode of “Good Morning Football” that Poles was actively negotiating for Judon, but the deal fell through due to financial disagreements—Judon presumably wanted more than the Bears were willing to offer.
Reddick had a standout 2022 season, earning second-team All-Pro honors with a league-leading five forced fumbles, 26 QB hits, and 16 sacks. Last season, he posted 11 sacks, 23 QB hits, and 13 tackles for loss in 17 starts for the Eagles.
While Reddick is clearly a game-changer, it remains uncertain whether any team can lure him away from the Jets and provide him with the contract he’s seeking. The Bears are one of the few teams with the resources to make it happen. Stay tuned.
