Trade idea for Bears to improve the defense |
When you look at Ryan Poles' tenure as the Chicago Bears GM, you can clearly see that he had a vision in mind and has, for the most part, stuck with that vision. Sure, failing to address the offensive line continues to plague him and the organization, but apart from that, he has done a great job filling the holes on this team.
Another thing he has done extremely well is not only making and identifying trades at the deadline and making a deal that makes sense for both sides without giving up a ton of assets. You saw that last season with Montez Sweat and how much it helped the Bears pass rush, and you could see it again this season as another potential trade could take this defense to another level. Although this may not be the pass-rushing type you would be looking for, the deal to keep an eye on is someone who cannot only play in the trenches but can also get after the quarterback when counted on. Denver Broncos DT DJ Jones is a name to watch in the coming weeks. Jones is in the final season of his three-year, 30 million-dollar deal, which wouldn't tie the Bears to him long-term and would also help get him cheaper than if he had multiple seasons left. Considering the Broncos' position and Payton's potential to blow things up to start a rebuild, Jones becomes one of the logical options for the Broncos to move this season. Like most DTs, Jones isn't a dominating pass rusher, but he brings a unique skill set that makes him stand out. His sheer size and strength not only allow him to plug up running lanes but also provide an interior push that could help him get to the quarterback. Then, there is the quickness side of his game, as he uses that to his advantage to disrupt rushing lanes and keep the opposition on their toes. Across his career, Jones has been very active on the defensive front, recording 213 tackles and 11 sacks while also forcing six fumbles. With the Broncos' defense playing as well as it has so far, it is hard to fathom the Broncos moving him, but when you look at their upcoming schedule and the money owed, it makes sense to deal Jones. The major question is what the Bears would have to give up, and if the price is right for both sides, it may be something the Bears consider doing. According to experts around the league, adding a guy like Jones would be a solid addition to the Bears as he will not only upgrade the line but could be had for a middle—to late-round pick. Considering the production he continues to give and what he is capable of giving, adding him for a late-round pick would be a massive steal for Poles. Can you imagine a defensive front with Gervon Dexter, Andrew Billings, Zacch Pickens, and Jones, with Sweat and the rest of the defense behind them? This is an already scary defensive unit capable of changing the game with one play, and the more depth you add to that group, the better it will be. Keep in mind that the only way the Bears are going to make a move would be if they are in playoff contention at or near the deadline. If that is the case, expect this team to actively hit the market to improve this team as much as possible heading into next season. Moves like this are a good way to do that as they not only make you better this season but could also make you better in the long term.
