The Chicago Bears should try to improve their pass rush ahead of the 2025 NFL season, and one NFL analyst says they should recruit Za’Darius Smith.
Matt Holder of Bleacher Report named the Bears as one of Smith’s top landing locations when he was released by the Detroit Lions in March.
“With Dayo Odeyingbo taking the early-down responsibilities and sliding inside in passing situations, Smith would be a great complement on the edge with Montez Sweat,” Holder pointed out.
Smith quietly had a productive 2024 season, recording nine sacks and 66 QB pressures in 17 games.
The 32-year-old was dealt to the Lions from the Cleveland Browns at the trade deadline, and he was an excellent mid-season addition to the defensive line following Aidan Hutchinson’s injury.
Though Chicago already has two quality edge rushers in Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo, Smith would be a fantastic rotational addition to the position group and could give acceptable output as a complementary pass rusher. The three-time Pro Bowler would bring valuable veteran knowledge and leadership.
Signing Smith also shouldn’t be too expensive, as the Bears still have $14.7 million in cap space. A team-friendly deal around $6 to $8 million for one year should be enough to entice the seasoned pass rusher to Chicago.
Ben Johnson, the Bears’ first-year head coach, worked with Smith in Detroit last season, which makes this deal even more of a no-brainer.
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