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As the NFL trade deadline on Nov. 10 draws near, the Chicago Bears are positioned as a team that should aggressively pursue upgrades, particularly on defense. At 4-2, the Bears have shown contender potential through the first six games, with quarterback Caleb Williams progressing as expected and the defense outperforming early projections. However, the unit has been hit hard by injuries and a suspension, underscoring the need for additional depth.
In a recent Sports Illustrated article highlighting trade candidates, Matt Verderame named Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker and edge rusher Josh Sweat as possible targets for Chicago. Both are former Pro Bowlers, and Verderame listed the Bears as potential fits for each player.
Baker, an eight-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro, has been remarkably durable and productive throughout his career. This season, he has already recorded 3.5 sacks, three passes defensed, and one interception. He is under contract through 2027 and carries a $16 million base salary next year, so he would not come cheap. Still, Verderame suggested Baker might be the best player available on the market given his past and present production. He listed the Buffalo Bills and Bears as potential fits.
Sweat, who signed a four-year deal less than two seasons ago, would likely require significant draft capital for Arizona to trade him. His prorated salary of $9.7 million this year and $17 million in each of the next two years (non-guaranteed) could complicate a deal. After posting 12 sacks last season, Sweat has just two sacks in six games this year. Verderame named the Bears and Detroit Lions as potential landing spots.
Key Analysis
Between the two, Sweat appears to be the more logical addition for Chicago. Montez Sweat has struggled this season with only two sacks, and while Dayo Odeyingbo has exceeded expectations with three sacks, his injury history is a concern. Josh Sweat's track record suggests he could rebound in a better situation; he has recorded at least 7.5 sacks in four of the past five seasons, including double-digit totals of 12 last year and 11 in 2022. He would represent a significant upgrade at a premium position, making him a priority for general manager Ryan Poles.
At safety, the Bears are thin. Coby Bryant is not expected back until December at the earliest, and while Dillon Thieneman and Cam Lewis have performed well, an injury to either would leave the position vulnerable. Baker, with eight Pro Bowls and four All-Pro selections, remains one of the league's top safeties. He excels in the box and as a pass rusher (four sacks this season) and is also strong against the run. Thieneman and Lewis can handle free safety duties, so Baker's skill set would fit well.
Projected costs are a third-round pick for Sweat and a fourth-rounder for Baker. Both players are under contract beyond this season, so they would not be rentals. Chicago has picks in every round for the next three years, providing flexibility. With legitimate Super Bowl aspirations, the Bears should consider acquiring both players, though if forced to choose, Sweat would be the preference.