BEARS’ DEFENSIVE CRISIS: CHICAGO’S PASS RUSH IN SHAMBLES AFTER WALKER CUT—FRONT OFFICE UNDER FIRE!.

As the Chicago Bears prepare for the 2025 NFL season, one of their most pressing concerns is the defensive end position. With key departures, potential draft targets, and trade rumors swirling, General Manager Ryan Poles and Head Coach Matt Eberflus have plenty of decisions to make as they aim to bolster a defensive front that struggled at times last season.

DeMarcus Walker’s Release Leaves a Void

One of the biggest offseason moves so far was the Bears’ decision to release veteran defensive end DeMarcus Walker. Signed in 2023 on a three-year, $21 million deal, Walker was expected to bring stability and leadership to the defensive line. Over two seasons, he started 29 games and recorded seven sacks, but his production did not fully justify his contract. By cutting him, the Bears freed up salary cap space but also created a significant hole in their pass-rushing unit.

Walker’s departure is part of a broader effort by Chicago to revamp their defensive line, which has lacked a consistent pass rush outside of Montez Sweat, who was acquired in a blockbuster trade from Washington last season. Sweat delivered a strong performance in 2024, but the Bears still need another edge rusher to create a formidable tandem.

NFL Draft: Mike Green in Play?

With the No. 10 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Bears are in a prime position to add a talented pass rusher. One name frequently linked to them is Mike Green, an edge rusher from Marshall. Green had an explosive 2024 college season, leading the nation with 17 sacks. He followed that up with an impressive showing at the Senior Bowl, where scouts praised his quickness, technique, and ability to disrupt plays in the backfield.

Although Green is considered slightly undersized for a traditional defensive end role, his relentless motor and explosiveness make him an attractive prospect for Chicago. Given Head Coach Matt Eberflus’s defensive philosophy—prioritizing speed and effort over sheer size—Green could be a great fit for the Bears’ scheme.

If the Bears don’t take Green at No. 10, other options include Florida State’s Jared Verse, Alabama’s Dallas Turner, or Penn State’s Chop Robinson, all of whom are highly regarded pass rushers in this year’s draft class.

Trade Market: Could Myles Garrett Be in Play?

Another intriguing possibility is that the Bears explore the trade market to fill their defensive end need. One major name connected to them in recent rumors is Myles Garrett, the Cleveland Browns’ superstar pass rusher.

Garrett has been one of the NFL’s most dominant edge defenders for years, and if Cleveland decides to rebuild or reallocate resources, they might consider moving him for a hefty return. A proposed trade scenario suggests the Bears could offer their 2025 first-round pick and a second-round pick in exchange for Garrett. While such a deal would be costly, adding a player of Garrett’s caliber would immediately transform the Bears’ defense into one of the league’s most fearsome units.

Alternatively, the Bears could look at more affordable trade targets, such as the Commanders’ Chase Young (if Washington doesn’t extend him) or Josh Uche from the Patriots. Both are younger players with upside who could thrive in Chicago’s system.

Current Roster Options and Free Agency Targets

• If the Bears decide against using a high draft pick or trading for a star, they may turn to free agency for answers. Some notable pass rushers set to hit the market include:
• Danielle Hunter (Minnesota Vikings): A veteran with proven pass-rushing ability, but would command a large contract.
• Leonard Floyd (Buffalo Bills): A former Bear who has been productive in recent years and could provide a short-term solution.
• Bryce Huff (New York Jets): A younger, emerging pass rusher who could be a great value signing.

Internally, the Bears still have Dominique Robinson and Rasheem Green, but neither has shown the consistency needed to be a full-time starter. Gervon Dexter Sr., a promising defensive tackle, could help on the interior, but the Bears need a true edge threat opposite Montez Sweat.

Strategic Outlook: What’s Next?

The Bears have plenty of salary cap space and draft capital, giving them multiple options to address their defensive end needs. Whether they target a rookie pass rusher, pursue a blockbuster trade, or sign a veteran free agent, the priority is clear: find another dominant edge defender to complement Montez Sweat and solidify the defensive line.

With free agency opening in March and the draft in April, Bears fans won’t have to wait long to see how the front office plans to fix one of the team’s most glaring weaknesses. If Chicago can land the right player, their defense could take a major step forward in 2025—and help push the team back into playoff contention.

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