The Chicago Bears desperately need to add some depth in the edge rusher room behind Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo.
To address the problem, general manager Ryan Poles will likely have to search the free agency market, and Pro Football Network’s Jacob Infante believes former Detroit Lions edge rusher Za’Darius Smith is a top option for the Bears.
Infante also lists a return to Detroit or signing with the New England Patriots as potential landing spots for Smith.
“Given his performance there last season, it could make sense for him to return to Detroit. However, the Bears and Patriots are two more pass-rush-needy teams on the verge of playoff contention who could view Smith as the missing piece to help their defense get to the next level,” Infante wrote.
Smith was released by the Lions in March after playing nine games with the team in 2024 after being traded there from the Cleveland Browns at the deadline.
Though he isn’t an electric pass rusher, Smith proved to still be a productive player last year, tallying nine sacks and 66 quarterback pressures in 17 games.
Chicago already has two solid starters at edge rusher in Sweat and Odeyingbo. However, signing Smith to play a key rotational role would be a savvy move. The 32-year-old’s 96-game starting experience and leadership would also be incredibly valuable for the Bears.
With Ben Johnson at head coach, signing Smith makes even more sense for Chicago, as the pair spent some time together in Detroit last season.
In order to take a playoff leap in 2025, the Bears will need a potent pass rush. Adding Smith to the defensive line to serve as the top depth edge rusher and provide solid pass rushing production on a team-friendly deal would be an excellent development for Chicago.
MORE: Detroit Lions injury updates: Two more players hurt at Monday’s practice
