Bears' Key Pass-Rusher Out for Season Unless Acted On Immediately

The Chicago Bears have struggled to generate a consistent pass rush this season, and the defense has faced additional challenges in recent weeks. Through seven games, the team has recorded only 14 total sacks, placing them 25th in the NFL through Week 8. Despite several significant roster additions made via the draft, free agency, and trade market during the offseason, the Bears did not acquire a true edge-rusher to bolster their pass-rush unit.

One of the reasons for this gap was the belief from new head coach Ben Johnson and his staff that second-year defensive end Austin Booker would recover from a knee injury in time to contribute meaningfully in 2025. However, Booker has not met those expectations, and the Bears may be forced to lose him for the remainder of the season if he does not show improvement in the next few days.

“The Bears’ pass rush took a hit in the first half when it lost defensive end Dominique Robinson and defensive tackle Shemar Turner (who also plays on the edge) to injuries,” reported Courtney Cronin of ESPN. “Chicago chose not to activate defensive end Austin Booker off injured reserve before Week 8, leaving just Daniel Hardy as depth on the edge. Coach Ben Johnson said he felt Booker would be able to help the Bears, but Chicago has until Tuesday to move him to the active roster, or he will stay on IR for the rest of the season.”

Bears Could Look to Swing Big on Trade Market for Player Like Trey Hendrickson to Address Pass-Rush Issues

With a 4-3 record and limited depth on the edge, the Bears are positioned as a team that could make a significant move in the trade market ahead of the November 4 deadline. One potential target is Cincinnati Bengals' star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson. However, the Bengals have been reluctant to entertain offers for Hendrickson, having recently turned down an inquiry from the Dallas Cowboys.

Interestingly, the Bears might improve their chances by defeating the Bengals in their upcoming matchup. A loss for Cincinnati would drop them to 3-6, with quarterback Joe Burrow still sidelined due to a turf toe injury sustained in Week 2. If the Bengals fall out of playoff contention, they may be more inclined to consider trading Hendrickson, as he will become a free agent in March and is unlikely to return to a franchise that may not offer him a long-term deal.

Bears Could Look for 1-Year Rental, More Affordable Edge-Rusher Like Jaelan Phillips

Hendrickson, however, is a costly option. He is expected to command a second-round draft pick in any trade, followed by a contract worth around $35 million annually over three or four years. Additionally, he is already past the age of 30, making him a less attractive long-term investment.

As a result, the Bears may be more interested in acquiring a one-year rental or a more affordable player who can still provide value. Jaelan Phillips of the Miami Dolphins and Jermaine Johnson of the New York Jets could fit this profile. Both players are productive and could be extended at a more reasonable salary in the future.

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