The Chicago Bears want to move past their disappointing run under former head coach Matt Eberflus.
Ben Johnson has been chosen to lead the turnaround. He’s tasked with developing former No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams into the franchise quarterback the Bears believed they were getting from USC.
Chicago has rebuilt their offense well. They’ve brought in veteran offensive linemen and drafted weapons for Williams.
But it’s also important to strengthen the defense when building around a young quarterback. Generating turnovers and three-and-outs gets the ball back to your offense. That goes a long way in building confidence for a signal-caller trying to find his NFL footing.
Bears Land Former Oregon Pass Rusher in Trade Idea
The Bears have some studs on their defensive line. Montez Sweat and Grady Jarrett anchor the unit.
But you can never have enough pass rushers. The New York Giants seem to have too many good options at the position. They’d most likely part with one of their former first-round picks.
Oregon product Kayvon Thibodeaux comes to mind. He’s entering the last year of his rookie contract.
Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay recently wrote about one trade every team should make before the 2025 NFL season. For the Giants, he recommended shipping Thibodeaux to the Bears.
Chicago Bears receive: Kayvon Thibodeaux
New York Giants receive: 2026 third and fifth round picks
“Dealing the 24-year-old would land the team picks it can use to further its rebuilding efforts with, a tantalizing proposition given the amount of holes Big Blue still has on the roster.”
Kay explained the Bears’ fit for the deal.
“The Bears fit the bill as a team that would be willing to give up several selections for the edge-rusher. While Chicago loaded up this offseason to make a playoff push, the team still lacks strong pass-rushers. Getting Thibodeaux in the mix would elevate the Bears’ defense significantly.”
New York drafted Penn State edge Abdul Carter with the third overall pick in April’s draft. That move made Thibodeaux expendable.
The Bears should certainly inquire about his availability. They want to round out their roster as they look to establish a winning culture around their young stars.
