Bleacher Report recently published an article outlining potential trade targets for the Chicago Bears ahead of the 2024 season. One of those trade ideas involves the Bears attempting to trade for former first-round pick, Payton Turner. With the Bears’ defensive line ranked last in the NFL in pass-rush grade by PFF, they need to focus on upgrading the pass-rushing unit. With options thin on the free-agent market, Turner might be the next best solution.
Bleacher Report Urges Chicago Bears To Trade For Payton Turner
Why Trading for Payton Turner is a Smart Investment
The Bears don’t blitz often in Matt Eberflus’ defensive scheme. So, if Montez Sweat is the only viable pass-rusher, there will be problems next season. Although Payton Turner didn’t produce with the New Orleans Saints, he was a first-round pick for a reason. Turner has continued to show his tenacity and strong upper body strength at 6’6″ and 270 pounds.
Unfortunately, Turner’s career has been plagued by injuries, preventing him from finding his stride. Now, he’s going into a make-or-break season with the Saints. He’s a high-character guy who understands he needs to improve on the field. With an enhanced defensive unit, the Bears could provide Turner with an opportunity to prove his worth. Learning under Sweat and playing with one of the best linebackers/secondaries in the NFL should give Turner all the tools to succeed. Here’s what Bleacher Report had to say regarding the Bears trading for Turner:
“While some would be quick to call Turner a bust and move on, he has shown just enough potential to believe that his first-round pedigree still carries some weight. He looked better in 2022 than he did as a rookie and even generated a pair of pressures in his two games in 2023. It’s not saying much, but the Bears can’t really get too choosy with the room they have right now. Montez Sweat led the team in sacks last season with six and he only played in nine games for them. It might be a little shocking that any team other than the Saints remember what made him a first-round pick. But, assuming the cost is low, he could be the type of high-upside player the Bears need in the room right now.”
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Outlook
Payton Turner still has plenty of time to develop into a premier pass-rusher in the NFL. At just 25 years old, he possesses all the physical attributes necessary to become a standout player. In a new defensive scheme where he won’t bear the full responsibility, Turner can thrive in a new environment. The Bears, facing a significant need for an edge rusher, would benefit from Turner’s addition. Currently, Demarcus Walker, Austin Booker, and Dominique Robinson are all competing for the second edge rusher position on the roster. Bringing Turner into the mix would bolster the competition and motivate these players to elevate their game.
Projected Trade Details
Bears Receive: Payton Turner, 2025 Sixth Round Pick
Saints Receive: 2025 Fifth Round Pick
Main Image: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
