That’s a pretty big question. The Bears desperately need some help on the offensive line and look to take care of some of that with their first-round pick, 10th overall, in the 2025 NFL Draft. Beyond that, they have two second-round picks and they might want to spend at least one of those on a defensive end.
Right now, the only real somewhat reliable player that they have at defensive end is Montez Sweat. He was down a bit in 2024 but that wasn’t entirely his fault. There was no one opposite of him to take the pressure off. He was a man doing a lot on his own and that just doesn’t work. Couple that with some injuries and issues on the defensive line and the Bears struggled. Getting to the quarterback, which they did a total of 40 times in 2024, didn’t happen as often as they would have preferred.
Now, with a new defensive coordinator and a new scheme, things will get much better for the Bears. But they have some work to do.
There are two ways that the Bears can go about fixing their problems at defensive end this offseason. They can work through free agency to find someone to fill in opposite Sweat or they can look at the draft for help.
The Chicago Bears Best Path at Edge Rusher
Free Agent Help
Which would be the best way to go? Well, if you analyze the list of free agents at the defensive end position this offseason, you will see that some decent edge rushers will be available. Three guys that kind of stick out include Khalil Mack, Chase Young, and Haason Reddick.
Now Mack, a former Bear, might be getting up there in years. However, he still has something left. Still, he is not a long-term answer. Mack could be a fill-in until another player develops into a starter, though.
Young, who has been in the league for five years has quite a bit left to offer. He might be the guy that the Bears grab and put opposite of Sweat making a formidable pass-rushing duo.
Finally, you have the always-interesting Reddick. Reddick has played some good football in the past, especially for the Eagles but he had some issues with his last team, the New York Jets. You never know what you might get with him. Still, paired with Sweat, he might be the answer that the Bears are looking for.
Looking at the NFL Draft for Help
When it comes to the draft, the Bears could decide to take a defensive end with one of their two second-round picks. This would not be surprising and is almost necessary even if they pick up someone through free agency.
There are a couple of big-name defensive ends that could be available when the Bears make their picks in the second round (39th and 41st). One of those big names, a guy that should be available at one of those two spots is Ohio State Buckeyes edge rusher J.T. Tuimoloau. This experienced and tough end could fit well with the Bears.
Another edge rusher that might be available in the second round is Marshall Thundering Herd end Mike Green. While he might be just a touch light (he weighs 248 pounds), he’s got some potential.
The Bears have two ways that they can fix their defensive end position. They could go one way or the other but a combination of the two would bring the best results.
Main Image: Brad Penner – USA Today Sports
