After clinching the NFC North title in 2025, the Chicago Bears are aiming to take the next step: a return to the postseason with a roster that’s more complete on both sides of the ball. Offensively, the arrow is pointing up.
With Ben Johnson calling plays and Caleb Williams showing why he was the top pick, the Bears’ offense has found its rhythm. The skill positions are well-stocked, the offensive line is holding up, and the overall unit is humming.
But if the Bears want to be more than just a playoff team - if they want to contend - they’ll need to shore up the other side of the ball. Specifically, the pass rush.
That’s where things get interesting.
According to a report from ESPN’s Courtney Cronin, Chicago could be in the mix for two big-name edge rushers this offseason: Trey Hendrickson, who’s set to hit free agency, and Maxx Crosby, who may be available via trade as his relationship with the Raiders appears to be on shaky ground. Both names are expected to be connected to the Bears as they look to upgrade their defensive front.
Let’s break this down.
Why the Bears need help off the edge
Even with Montez Sweat in the fold, the Bears’ pass rush wasn’t consistent enough in 2025. Sweat flashed at times, but Chicago lacked that second impact rusher who can collapse the pocket from the opposite side or create havoc on third down. In today’s NFL, if you can’t pressure the quarterback, you’re going to struggle - especially in a conference stacked with elite passers.
That’s why the Hendrickson and Crosby buzz is worth paying attention to.
Trey Hendrickson: The more attainable option
Hendrickson makes a lot of sense for Chicago. He’s a proven pass rusher with a history of double-digit sack seasons, and he’s about to hit the open market. An injury-shortened 2025 campaign might even make him more affordable than usual - a potential bargain for a team looking to add immediate production off the edge.
If the Bears can land Hendrickson without breaking the bank, it could be the kind of smart, calculated move that helps elevate the defense without sacrificing long-term flexibility.
Maxx Crosby: The blockbuster swing
Now, Crosby is a different story. We’re talking about one of the most disruptive edge rushers in the league - a relentless motor, elite production, and the kind of player who changes games.
But prying him away from Las Vegas won’t come cheap. The Raiders would likely demand a massive return, and names like DJ Moore and a first-round pick are already being tossed around as the kind of package it might take to get a deal done.
That’s a steep price. Moore has been a key piece in the Bears’ offense and a security blanket for Williams. Giving him up, even for a player of Crosby’s caliber, would be a bold move - one that signals the Bears believe they’re ready to win now.
Draft still in play
Don’t rule out the draft, either. Chicago holds the 25th overall pick, and while that’s not typically where you find elite edge talent, it’s possible the Bears could find a high-upside rusher who can develop behind Sweat and whoever else they bring in. That said, if they want immediate impact, free agency or the trade market is the more likely route.
Bottom line
The Bears are in a good spot. They’ve got their quarterback.
They’ve got their offensive identity. Now it’s about building a defense that can match that energy - and it starts with getting after the quarterback.
Whether it’s Hendrickson, Crosby, or someone else entirely, expect Chicago to be aggressive in addressing its pass rush this offseason. Because if they can get that part right, the Bears won’t just be playoff hopefuls - they’ll be a legitimate threat in the NFC.