The Chicago Bears have a new coaching staff, led by former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. Johnson faces the daunting job of guiding a 5-12 squad to a winning record and a playoff berth.
While the Bears have a strong team, they still have a significant defensive weakness. Dayo Odeyingbo and Montez Sweat are strong players, but not enough to convince fans and critics. The Bears’ rushing defense was one of the weakest in 2025, ranking seventh in the league with 136.6 yards per game. The pass rush was dead center, giving up 217.9 passing yards per game.
Simply put, the Bears lack pass rushers and did not sign anyone fresh during free agency. That implies they might go for an established veteran, possibly even a divisional rival. Albert Breer, an NFL source, anticipated that the Bears would address their pass rush issues and possibly approach former Detroit Lions standout Za’Darius Smith. “I believe that is all relative to what is out there.
So they’ll look at D’Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson at running back, Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo (who plays some inside on passing downs) on the edges when the pads come on, and then maybe consider Jamaal Williams at running back, Za’Darius Smith, or Matthew Judon as edge rushers,” Breer wrote. Smith would be a valuable contributor and an obvious enhancement. He recorded nine sacks with the Lions and Cleveland Browns in 2024, but was dismissed by the Lions in March. It’s strange that he hasn’t been picked up by any team, but he’s expected to join a new squad soon.
Granted, the Bears may wait to see what their defense can accomplish in training camp and the preseason, but if the pass rush isn’t where it needs to be, they may decide to call Smith and see if they can work out an agreement with the All-Pro. Kelvin Sheppard, the newly promoted defensive coordinator, needs to evaluate the team during training camp, and strengthening the pass rush and defensive end position should be at the top of the list of red flags.
Smith is also a consummate professional who would be beneficial to any team. It would be amazing if he signed with the Bears after leaving the Lions.
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