As the Chicago Bears prepare for the upcoming NFL season, trade discussions have intensified, particularly surrounding the need for a formidable pass-rusher. With the regular season just over a week away, speculation is mounting about potential moves, including the possibility of acquiring Josh Sweat from the Arizona Cardinals.
On the September 2 episode of the "Bears Over Beers" podcast, hosts Ryan Droste and Bryan Orenchuck revisited the topic of Sweat, a player who has been frequently mentioned in trade talks this offseason. Orenchuck expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of adding Sweat to the Bears' roster, stating, "I think Josh Sweat is a name that’s been floated around; he’d be fun." However, he tempered expectations regarding other potential targets like Maxx Crosby, indicating that Crosby is likely to remain with the Las Vegas Raiders until at least the trade deadline.
Orenchuck emphasized that if the Bears were to pursue a trade for a pass-rusher, it should be someone who can contribute to the team for multiple seasons rather than a short-term solution. He noted the team's hopes for players like Austin Booker and Dayo Odeyingbo, both of whom have shown promise in training camp. The Bears also recently acquired Marcus Davenport, but his history of injuries raises questions about his reliability as a consistent contributor.
Davenport, who was brought in mid-August, was cut just 13 days later during the team's roster reduction. Although he was re-signed to the practice squad, his injury record—having played in only 14 games over the past three seasons—casts doubt on his ability to make a significant impact. This situation highlights the Bears' urgent need for additional pass-rushing talent, especially with Booker currently dealing with a groin injury.
Josh Sweat, who has expressed a desire to leave the Cardinals, could be a viable solution for the Bears. The 29-year-old defensive end had a standout season in 2025, recording 12 sacks, and has accumulated a total of 55 sacks throughout his eight-year NFL career. His performance suggests he could be a difference-maker for Chicago’s defense.
Droste pointed out that Sweat might be available for a reasonable price, potentially a third-round draft pick, which he believes would be a worthwhile investment for the Bears. Given the Cardinals' current rebuilding phase, they might be inclined to trade Sweat rather than risk losing him without compensation.
While there have been rumors linking Sweat to the Green Bay Packers, Packers GM Brian Gutekunst recently confirmed that there has been no communication with the Cardinals regarding a trade for the edge-rusher. This leaves the door open for the Bears to make a move as they look to bolster their defensive lineup ahead of the season.
As the Bears weigh their options, the urgency to secure a reliable pass-rusher before the season kicks off is palpable. With the trade deadline looming, the Bears must act quickly if they hope to land a player like Josh Sweat, who could significantly enhance their defensive capabilities.
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