The Chicago Bears are on the hunt for a top-tier pass rusher this offseason. While bolstering the secondary, particularly at safety, is crucial, securing a dynamic pass rusher is paramount.
The Bears have options, whether it's selecting from promising prospects at the No. 25 spot in the 2026 NFL Draft or exploring the free agent market with names like Trey Hendrickson and Jaelan Phillips. The trade market is another avenue worth considering.
ESPN has brought some intriguing news regarding a potential trade target: Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders. With a hefty $116 million contract and an impressive 69.5 career sacks, Crosby is a hot commodity. His trade odds are over 50% as we head into the offseason, making him a tantalizing option for the Bears.
Crosby’s "Predicted chance of getting traded" sits at 60%, with potential landing spots including the Bears, New England Patriots, and Washington Commanders.
Crosby is in the midst of a substantial contract, with four years remaining at about $29 million per year, and $30 million fully guaranteed for 2026. This is a significant investment, especially considering the Bears' current cap space challenges. However, acquiring a seven-year veteran with Crosby's stats, including 10 sacks last season, could be a game-changer.
A strategic move could involve using DJ Moore in a trade for Crosby. The Raiders, likely to draft Fernando Mendoza first overall, would benefit from adding a top receiver for their rookie quarterback.
While the odds aren't the highest ESPN has identified for a trade this offseason, they are still better than a coin flip, providing some optimism for Bears fans. Although a trade isn't guaranteed, the rumors surrounding Crosby are gaining traction, and the Bears might just be the perfect fit for this star pass rusher.