As the NFL trade deadline approaches on Nov. 10, the Chicago Bears are being mentioned in connection with a string of defensive players, from veteran edge rushers to young cornerbacks.
Key points
- The Bears are linked to multiple defensive players, including edge rusher Khalil Mack and defensive end Josh Sweat.
- Cornerbacks Alontae Taylor and Nahshon Wright are among the secondary options being discussed.
- Front office discussions involve both veteran talent and younger prospects, with input from coach Ben Johnson and GM Ryan Poles.
- The trade deadline is set for Nov. 10, 2026, leaving limited time for negotiations.
The rumor mill has been active since the Colts' recent moves—sending guard Quenton Nelson to Seattle and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to San Francisco—prompting the Bears to check on both players, according to a Windy City Gridiron report dated Oct 28, 2026.
ESPN insiders Jeremy Fowler and Matt Bowen have listed several names that could fit Chicago’s scheme, highlighting Khalil Mack as a "quality Day 3 pick" and Arizona Cardinals defensive end Josh Sweat (6‑5, 265 lb) as a potential front‑seven bookend after his 12‑sack season last year.
Potential acquisitions
Defensive end Jermaine Johnson II (6‑5, 254 lb) and cornerback Alontae Taylor have also surfaced, with Taylor’s prior work under defensive coordinator Dennis Allen in New Orleans cited as a reason for interest despite his recent healthy‑scratch status with the Titans.
Cornerback Nahshon Wright, a former Bear who posted a "boom‑or‑bust" 2025 season, reportedly expressed frustration over a lack of playing time in a recent ESPN interview with Rich Cimini, hinting at a desire to return to Chicago.
Coaches weigh in
Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer added that the Bears may be shopping for a defensive tackle, mentioning Washington’s Daron Payne and Indianapolis’ Grover Stewart, while also noting Mack as a possible fit.
Bears head coach Ben Johnson, when asked about the trade talks, said, "Well, yeah, there’s a lot going on… it’s certainly Ryan’s domain, and yet we have constant dialogue of what this team needs…" underscoring the front office’s active search for upgrades.
Reader questions
Which defensive players are the Bears most frequently mentioned with?
Recent reports cite Khalil Mack, Josh Sweat, Jermaine Johnson II, Alontae Taylor, Nahshon Wright, Daron Payne and Grover Stewart as potential targets.
When is the NFL trade deadline for the 2026 season?
The deadline is scheduled for November 10, 2026.
Source: windycitygridiron.com